Page 227 of Intense
“I did. And she made me see that keeping it inside is killing me. She makes me want to be better.”
Declan gives a small nod. “Crazy what a woman can do.”
“She’s the best thing that ever happened to me. From the moment we met at the hospital, even when we were sworn rivals. She was keeping me alive, and I didn’t even realize.”
“I’m happy for you, Finn,” Declan says softly. “This is the start of a new life for you.”
I pray to God he’s right.
“There’s one more thing.”
Conan leans forward, mouth falling open. “She’s pregnant, isn’t she?”
I chuckle, shaking my head. “I fuckin’ wish. But no. Penelope’s parents were cousins of the Bowens. That’s why the war started when we were kids. Dad blamed all of them.”
“Those motherfuckers,” Conan growls.
“So killing Arthur is the end. Revenge for her. Revenge for Dad.”
“And revenge for you, Finn,” Declan adds.
Conan’s fist clenches. “I’m glad I smashed James’ skull.”
“You’re not to blame for Dad’s death, Conan. That was his sacrifice. Don’t carry that weight,” I tell him.
Tears fill his eyes, but he nods.
I lift my glass. “To Mom and Dad.”
“They’d be proud of us,” Declan whispers.
“And Dad will be watching as we skin Arthur alive, whiskey in hand, smiling.” I smirk.
The energy shifts in the room. My heart slams against my ribs.
I turn, and my lungs seize.
“Holy shit, love. You look breathtaking.”
I stride toward her, her smile growing with every step. That smile is what my heart beats for now.
I tilt her chin up, drinking her in. “Absolutely beautiful, temptress. Gorgeous. Stunning. A masterpiece. Perfection.” My lips hover over hers. “All fuckin’ mine.”
Her blush rises, heat radiating between us. Her hands smooth over my chest as she straightens my bow tie.
“I’ll look good as an accessory on your arm, Dr. Quinn.”
“No. You’re the main event.”
The dress hugs her like it was sewn on her body, red fabric sculpting every curve. The snake tattoo between her breasts captivating me. My fingers run through her curls, my gaze locked on hers.
“I want to kiss you, but I don’t want to get red lipstick on you,” she whispers.
I ignore her, crashing my mouth onto hers.
“Nothing gets between us. Remember that.”
A knock sounds at the door. Conan rushes to answer, leaving Declan chuckling.
