Total pages in book: 77
Estimated words: 73225 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 366(@200wpm)___ 293(@250wpm)___ 244(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 73225 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 366(@200wpm)___ 293(@250wpm)___ 244(@300wpm)
"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 being careful. 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."
I clink my glass gently against hers, my heart warm and full of hope. "And new beginnings."
We both sip our wine, the room settling back into peaceful silence, broken only by the distant sound of traffic from the street below. My eyes are just starting to feel heavy when suddenly, a sharp knock echoes at the front door.
Melanie's eyes widen. "Who could that be this late?"
"Maybe Asher forgot something?" I suggest, standing slowly. "I'll get it."
Melanie follows close behind, curiosity written plainly on her face. I approach the door cautiously, checking the peephole.
Outside stands a tall, handsome man with dark, tousled hair, a charming smile, and deep, dark eyes. He’s holding a bouquet of sunflowers and wearing a leather jacket over a well-fitted shirt and jeans. I glance at Melanie, whose mouth has dropped open.
"What?" she whispers urgently. "Who is it?"
I open the door slowly, smiling politely. "Hello?"
He smiles wider, his gaze shifting quickly from me to Melanie. "Hi. I'm sorry to drop by so late. I'm Diego."
Melanie squeaks quietly, her eyes huge. I glance back at her, grinning. "Well, Mel," I tease softly, stepping aside so Diego can enter. "Looks like your mystery man decided to show up after all."
Diego steps inside, looking sheepish yet confident. "I'm sorry—hope I'm not intruding. But Melanie mentioned girls' night here and, well…I couldn't wait to finally meet you." He looks right at me when he says that word, and instantly my guard shoots up.
“How did you know where I lived?”
Melanie stares at me, and I step back. However it’s too late. Men surround us, and Diego drops the flowers. A hand clamps my mouth shut as soon as I try to scream. We’re dragged from my condo, kicking and fighting the entire way. Until one of the men hits Melanie so hard she passes out.