Page 131 of Wild Tangled Hearts

Chapter60

Damien

FERRIS WHEELS AND ROLLERCOASTERS

As weeks roll into months, Damien works tirelessly to prove his unwavering commitment to me. He becomes a master of little surprises, from hiding love notes in unexpected places to planning spontaneous picnics in the park. His efforts aren't just about grand gestures but also the everyday moments that show he's fully invested in our relationship.

The fear that once held me back slowly begins to fade. A growing sense of security and warmth replaces it. Damien's consistent love and effort become the building blocks of our renewed connection, creating a solid foundation for the future I’m now daring to dream about.

"You know, I just thought of something,” Damien says with a mischievous glint in his eyes as we ride the Ferris wheel at the Market Fair. He grabs a handful of the overly salted popcorn, tossing a piece in the air and catching it in his mouth, then smirks.

“What’s that?” I lean into him as he wraps a strong arm around my shoulder.

“Our relationship is kinda like a Ferris wheel.”

“Really, how so?”

“It’s had its ups and downs, and—“ I burst into laughter, and he gives me a mock frown. “What, too cheesy?”

“No. I love when you’re cheesy, but I’m sure you meant roller coasters. Ferris wheels go in circles, not up and down.”

He taps the tip of my nose playfully, “What direction are we going in right now?”

“Uh, up, I guess.”

“And when we get to the top, we’ll go down.” He shrugs and looks smug. “See, up and down.”

I chuckle. “Okay, I guess you win.”

“But you’re right,” he says, smiling. “Rollercoaster makes way more sense.”

In the warmth of our laughter, Damien draws me closer, his lips gently grazing the top of my head. It's a tender gesture that sends a wave of relaxation cascading through my entire body as if all the worries and doubts are swept away in that single, affectionate kiss.

Time is our ally, gradually erasing the scars of our turbulent past. With each passing day, I find myself trusting Damien again, and though I didn’t think it was possible, I’ve fallen even more in love with him.

"Bella," he says, his voice suddenly filled with tension, "You know I want to spend the rest of my life making you happy." His sincerity is palpable, and the weight of his words hangs in the air, promising a future we're both cautiously inching toward. He takes a deep breath, his vulnerability shining through. "I'm willing to prove myself to you every day for as long as it takes."

With a trembling hand, Damien reaches into his pocket and retrieves the delicate silver chain. The pendant with the deep green gemstone, his grandmother’s cherished heirloom, is suspended from it. His eyes meet mine, and it's clear that this necklace is more than just jewelry; it symbolizes his commitment and a pledge to mend what was once broken.

"Bella," he says softly, holding the necklace out to me, "will you please wear this? Wear it as a reminder of my promise, of my love."

I nod, my voice steady but filled with emotion. "I will."

As I fasten the chain around my neck, Damien leans in, his lips meeting mine in a kiss that seals our unspoken agreement. It's a kiss filled with hope and the promise of a future we're determined to build together, one day at a time.

The kiss deepens, and Damien's longing intensifies; a low, needy groan escapes his lips, echoing the pent-up passion between us. "Let's go away for the weekend. Just you and me.”

"I'd love to, but..." I chew on my bottom lip, my thoughts turning to my parents' inquiries about meeting Damien. I didn’t want to introduce him until I knew that things between us were solid, which they are now. But the idea of a weekend dedicated to just me and him, without any outside distractions, is tempting.

Reader’s Choice:

What should Bella do next?

Go to the cottage for the weekend, but first, Damien has to meet the parents. Turn to this page.

Make this weekend all about romance. Go to the cottage with Damien! Turn to this page.

Chapter61

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