Page 227 of Beautiful Venom

“I’m sorry,” he whispers, dropping a kiss on the top of my nose.

“You’re not! You’re not sorry that you’re the first man I’ve loved. Theonlyman I’ve ever loved and probably the only man I’ll ever love. You had me in the palm of your hand and refused to let me go. No matter how much I think about it, I just can’t let you go either. No matter how much I tried to deny it, I’m miserable without you.”

“Is that so?” His features ignite in a myriad of colors.

“Shut up. I swear if you hurt me again?—”

His lips cover mine, and my words end in a groan, but he quickly pulls back.

“Won’t be happening. You have my word.”

“You better keep your word. You know I can ice you out.”

“I’m well aware. You’ll be my queen. Actually, you already are.”

“Even if we’re worlds apart?”

“You’re my world. If anyone dares to touch you, I’ll end their miserable life.”

“You’re awful.”

“You love it, wildflower.”

I smile and he kisses me again.

This time, deeper, slower, and for the first time in my life, I breathe properly.

Kane broke the unlucky chain.

He’s my knight in shining armor in the most unconventional way.

I’ve always lived on the run, but I’m ready to stop now.

And just be with him.

EPILOGUE 1 — DAHLIA

TWO WEEKS LATER

The crowd is buzzing with infectious energy, chanting the Vipers’ names, getting drugged by the team’s perfect play.

Led by Kane.

Today, he’s an absolute star. He’s scored the most, more than any offensive player, and has been the best defenseman as well, smoothly cutting off the opposing team’s offenses, and forcing their players to commit penalties and get sent to the penalty box.

He’s bringing his A game.

Absolutely smashing it.

Leading his team to new heights.

Making the crowd go wild whenever he touches the puck.

Even Megan, who’s mainly here for Ryder, has been screaming her head off whenever Kane is gliding on the ice like an unstoppable gladiator.

I’ve been screaming, too. I brought my online energy to real life and have been cheering him on from start to finish.

But I still suffer from a minor heart attack whenever he points at me, usually after he scores.

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