“Yes, please. I wanna feel you inside me,” I replied, moaning.

His legs trembled as he released himself, filling me up with his warmth. My muscles relaxed, and I felt my body going limp. My heart rate slowed by the second, a warm glow spreading through me—a comforting, soothing sensation.

A soft, satisfactory sigh escaped my lips, my hand flying to smooth my hair backward. “That was amazing,” I confessed, sitting up to look into his eyes.

His hands framed my face, forehead against mine, as we exchanged heavy breaths. The air was filled with a mix of sweat and arousal, his fingers coming through my moist hair. “You're mine, Tessa,” he whispered, his breath brushing against skin.

“I'm yours,” I replied with the same tone, locking eyes with him.

His lips curled into a smirk, and he kissed me before lifting me in his hands. I wrapped my arms around his neck, and he led us to the bathroom.

Epilogue – Erik

Who would've thought we'd come this far without breaking apart? It's been two years already, two years of love, bliss, and happiness. Despite the fact that our story was rough at the beginning, life seemed to find a way of turning things around in our favor.

I was a man filled with gratitude, a man complete in every way, and this was all thanks to my lovely wife and also my daughter, Anastasia. These past two years had been my best yet, and I considered myself lucky to have been blessed with such beautiful souls.

My wife and daughter were the center of my world—the two most important women in my life. And with each passing day, our bond as a unit grew stronger. The reason for our union was, first of all, to strengthen the alliance between the Russians and the Irish, and that hadn’t changed.

Within the last couple of years, both organizations had worked together on several lucrative business plans that benefited both parties. The successful alliance between Tessa and I had brought our families closer in ways we never thought possible.

The Tarasovs and the O'Brians were not only business partners but also family. Over the years, our relationships had transcended beyond the formalities of business. We'd grown more acquainted and familiar with one another.

As a couple, one of our biggest achievements was the growth and expansion of Tessa's clothing business—Valyria Fashion House. At first, I didn't realize my wife's potential in the business until she ventured into it.

Her ideas and skills, coupled with my financial and emotional support, skyrocketed her brand in just a short time. She wasn't only talented but also business minded. Tessa had aunique ability to persuade and talk her way into closing any deal with anyone, regardless of who they were.

The woman had always been a marvel. All she needed was someone to truly believe in her and give her an opportunity to show the world what she was capable of. Tessa delayed stepping into the limelight of success because no one saw her potential, not even her own family.

Fortunately for me, I was lucky to be the one to see what nobody else did. Now, she was successful, and her brand had gained recognition from both local and international agencies. I couldn't have been more proud of her.

Tessa's great achievement was the reason we were all gathered here tonight.

The grand ballroom shimmered with elegance as impeccably dressed men and women filled the space. Chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, their lights casting warm glows over the setting.

The crème de la crème of society lingered around in groups, their faces lit up with vibrant smiles. The hum of conversations filled the air. Waiters and waitresses weaved through the guests, holding trays of champagne and canapés.

The atmosphere was alive with the soft melody of jazz music played by a live band at a corner. A mix of several expensive colognes and perfumes wafted through the air, adding to the ambiance of the occasion.

A tall, slender man with a charismatic smile climbed up on the stage with ease, his polished shoes clicking against the floor. His blue eyes scanned the crowd as he reached for the microphone, adjusting his flashy red tie.

He cleared his throat conspicuously and began to speak with a booming voice that commanded attention. “Ladies and gentlemen. Can I get your attention, please?” he said, his words echoing through the large space.

Voices gradually went silent, and the guests' quiet conversations and laughs trailed off as heads turned to the stage. The master of ceremonies paused for a moment, a satisfied smile playing on his lips.

He continued, his tone laced with admiration, “It is my great pleasure to introduce the CEO and founder of Valyria Fashion House—a woman who has taken the fashion industry by storm with her stunning designs and unwavering passion.”

Tessa, standing beside me, squeezed against my fingers, her palm flying to her chest with slightly flushed cheeks. She stole a glance in my direction, and I beamed at her, filled with affection and pride.

The master of ceremonies went on, “And so, without further ado, please join me in welcoming the incomparable Tessa Tarasov!”

When her name was mentioned, the crowd erupted into a heavy round of applause, the sound waves crashing against the walls like a thunderous tide.

Tessa's smile broadened as she handed our girl to me and smoothed down her dress, drawing in a deep breath.

I wiggled my brows at her, my smile widening as I watched her sashay through the clapping crowd. Her black gown hugged her like a second skin, highlighting her curvature. Her hair fell down her back in effortless waves, framing her face, and her stilettoes clicked against the floor as she climbed up onto the stage.

Two-year-old Anastasia stayed perched in my arms, her tiny hands grasping my shoulder as she bounced up and down in excitement. Her wide eyes were fixed on the dazzling lights, and her small lips curved into a radiant grin.