Page 71 of Defending What's Mine

"Nope," I counter playfully, bumping her shoulder again. "You don't get off that easy. Tell me more about this mystery man. You've been texting nonstop for days. Spill."

Melanie's cheeks flush even deeper, but she finally sighs dramatically. "Fine. His name is Diego."

I gasp theatrically. "Diego? Very mysterious and exotic. And does Diego have a last name?"

"Of course he does, Charlotte," Melanie laughs, rolling her eyes. "But he hasn’t told me yet."

"Oh, come on," I pout, drawing out the vowels. "Really?"

She waves her hand dismissively. "It's still new. Very new. We haven't even met face-to-face yet."

"Wait," I interrupt, eyes wide. "Are you telling me this is an online romance? Melanie, we talked about this—did you even background-check him? Did you run a security check, at least?"

She laughs loudly, barely remembering to cover her mouth so we don't wake my mother. "Relax, mama bear. I'm beingcareful. But he's legit—I video-chatted with him a few times. He's a software engineer, charming, funny…and did I mention seriously sexy?"

I grin mischievously, scooting closer. "Define 'seriously sexy.'"

Melanie groans dramatically, burying her face in her hands before peeking out through her fingers. "Okay, fine. Picture dark eyes, killer smile, and the kind of voice that makes you want to just lie down and surrender. He's got these dimples when he laughs…" She trails off dreamily, then suddenly snaps back to attention. "And that's all you're getting for now."

I burst out laughing, genuinely delighted by her blush and rare shyness. "Wow. You’re smitten."

She shrugs lightly, pretending nonchalance. "Maybe a little. It's just... nice. Different."

"Different is good," I assure her gently, taking her hand again. "Trust me, I understand now."

Her expression grows soft again, sincerity shimmering in her eyes. "So you're really in love, aren't you? With Asher?"

My heart flips just hearing it spoken aloud, and I feel a smile spreading across my lips. "Yes," I admit quietly, happiness swelling inside me. "I really am."

Melanie squeezes my hand, genuine joy lighting her face. "I'm so happy for you, Charlotte. You deserve someone who cherishes you. You've waited so long."

"Feels almost surreal," I confess softly. "Part of me is scared to trust it completely. Like the second I let my guard down, it'll all disappear."

Melanie shakes her head firmly. "Not this time. You've already been through your trial-by-fire. If he was going to run, he would've done it when Wade kidnapped you, when things got intense. But he stayed. He's your safe place. I can see it."

I nod, fighting the sudden sting of happy tears. "I think he is. It scares me, Mel. Feeling so vulnerable. Letting him in."

"That's exactly how you know it's real," she says softly. "Love isn't supposed to feel safe, Char. It’s supposed to scare the hell out of you. That's how you know it's worth it."

I smile warmly, leaning my head onto her shoulder. "How did you become such an expert?"

She laughs softly, hugging me close. "Romantic comedies, obviously."

We fall into a comfortable silence for a moment, sipping our wine, lost in thoughts of our own private happiness. Finally, Melanie breaks the quiet again, mischievousness back in her voice.

"So, Denver? Are you really serious about moving there with him?"

I lift my head, nodding slowly. "I think so. It's peaceful. Away from the drama here. A fresh start."

"And what about your family? They’ll freak," she warns gently.

"They'll adjust," I say firmly. "They've always known I wasn't meant for corporate politics. I want a ranch. Quiet mornings, rescued animals, mountain views. Asher beside me. I want that more than anything."

Melanie smiles warmly, nudging my side. "You'd be amazing at it. And if Diego turns out to be as wonderful as he seems, maybe I’ll join you guys out there too."

"I'd love that," I tell her sincerely. "You deserve your own happy ending, Mel."

She grins softly, raising her glass. "Here's to happy endings, then."

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