Page 102 of Revenge (Corrupt Empire 3)

We sat down at the table they’d snagged for the five of us. I wrapped an arm around Avery, leaning towards her.

“What the hell just happened?” I asked, voice low.

She turned to me. The others were looking at the menus so weren’t paying attention to us.

“Fuck knows. I told Gert to stop objectifying you, but she doesn’t listen. I’m getting sick of it.”

“You objectify me.”

She looked horrified for all of thirty seconds until she realised I was teasing her. She shoved my arm.

“I do not, shut up.”

“Trouble in paradise?” Gert piped up.

Avery turned back to the rest of them, giving Gert a ‘shut the fuck up’ look.

“No… Now, what’s good here?”

She grabbed a menu and started perusing it, ignoring the stares from her friends. This lunch was going to end in tears in a minute. Fuck.

“Princess,” I whispered in her ear. “What’s wrong?”

She put a hand on my thigh, giving it a squeeze. I reached over with my free hand and held it. Something was bothering her and I wasn’t sure if it was what James said in the car or if it was because Gert kept making inappropriate comments.

“Nothing,” she whispered.

I didn’t believe her but I wasn’t going to push the subject. James looked over at me, raising his eyebrow and indicating Avery with his head. I shrugged. He sighed, turning back towards Gert and Tilly.

“So… Gertie says you’re an artist.”

Avery leant into me, resting her head on my shoulder.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered. “I just can’t stand anyone looking at you like that.”

“Like what?”

“Don’t tell me you didn’t notice. I know she’s my best friend, but you’re mine.”

I tried not to smile. My princess was jealous and it was kind of fucking cute.

“Avery, I love you. I have no interest in anyone else.”

“I know that.”

I tugged her closer. Perhaps our conversation last night had rattled her a little and having Gert look at me like I was some kind of dessert she wanted to devour had been the icing on the cake.

“Princess, you’re jealous and it’s cute, but you don’t need to be.”

“I’m not… Okay, fine. I am. I feel so stupid.”

I kissed her forehead, letting go of her hand so I could cup her face.

“You’re not stupid. Now, chill out and get to know your friend’s girlfriend. That’s why we’re here.” I leant towards her, brushing my lips against hers. “I’m yours, Avery. Forever. This ring on my finger guarantees that and even if we weren’t married, it would still be the case.”

She smiled and fuck if it didn’t make my heart sing.

“Okay.”

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