by Dana Volney
They were doing exactly what they’d agreed upon. Yet her heart was broken. She’d stupidly fallen in love with Vincent while she posed as his wife. She’d wanted him to ask her to stay when she’d told him she was going to Europe again. But he hadn’t—he hadn’t even looked upset about her decision. Vincent didn’t care what she did as long as he got to keep his company.
That’s unfair. You’re not about to give back the money Dad needs. The situation could not be more messed up.
“Hey. Sorry. I forgot what it was like to sleep in and couldn’t get out of bed.” Lena unzipped her jacket and took off her ridiculously bright, royal blue knitted hat with a big ball on the end of the point. She’d had that thing since they were kids, and sometimes Lilia thought that was the only way their friends knew who was who. “Are you okay?”
“Yep.”
“Talk. I had the same look when Clark and I broke up. Except you look way worse.”
“We didn’t break up. We weren’t ever together.”
“Stop it. I’m tired of listening to you two skirt around the issue.”
“Us two?”
“Vincent is totally into you. He told me as much in the pub.”
“Then why did he try to call this whole thing off that night?”
“I don’t know. Men. Maybe he got scared.”
“Scared of what?” His deal was done, the company was his. She was the one with the most to lose if it all fell apart.
“You’re pretty awesome.” Lena set her elbows on the table and moved closer. “Loving all that awesome can be hard.”
A breathy chuckle escaped Lilia’s lips. “He’s not in love.”
“But you are in love with him.”
“Maybe. I think I got caught up in the situation.” And then he’d found out about Zenzo, which made everything worse, and that was dumb—she’d neither said yes to Zenzo nor talked to him since the bank parking lot.
“It’ll work out. Give it some time, let things settle down. It’s new for both of you.”
Lena’s words helped to calm the jumbled mess that was Lilia’s thoughts. She wasn’t going to be the first one to make the move—not after Vincent had backed out and was okay with her leaving. When she returned in two or three months, she’d assess what the situation was then. Maybe after time and distance she’d have her head on better.
“I’m leaving.” She took a quick drink, ready to explain herself. “Come with me.”
“What?”
“I’m going back to Europe for a couple of months, continue what I was doing.”
“I thought you were going to Australia next.”
“There’s more opportunity in Europe, and it’s easier to travel between countries.”
“What about Dad?”
“He’s getting the treatment. I won’t stay away long this time. I just need to get out of here. You should come with me. They always need more English teachers.”
“No. I can’t. That’s crazy. And I like my job.” Lena sat back and studied her. “Is he going with you?”
“Nope.”
“It would be super romantic.”
“I suppose. But it’s just me. I didn’t even ask him.”
“When?”
“I leave in a couple of days.” Being thousands of miles away from Vincent was sure to help put this all behind her—too bad she couldn’t just leave her heart here, too. That was the real problem.
“I hate it when you go.”
“Me, too.”
• • •
“You’ve got it all wrong.” Vincent tapped a pen on his desk, no longer happy to see his mother, who’d popped in on her way to meet a friend for lunch.
“Everything was fine between you two. What happened?”
“Define ‘fine.’ We had a deal. You know that, so don’t pretend you didn’t. That’s all it was.”
“I don’t think so. I saw the way you looked at her at dinner.”
“What is it with you and looks? There was no look.”
“Regardless, make sure you don’t mess the business up while you’re torching your personal life.”
“You and Dad have managed to do that for me.”
“It wasn’t my idea. You know that. And your father didn’t want you to end up alone. Because that is certainly the path you are on.” He’d always looked up to his father, in life, in business. This one little clause was causing him to start doubting his memories, and that pissed him off, too.
“I’m not alone. I’m married. For a year.” Except Lilia was leaving, and he would be alone. He was already alone. He’d been happy with his life before he’d met her. Now, even the simple things he’d enjoyed before her, like eating ice cream and watching TV, weren’t as nice.
She checked her watch and then stood. “Stick out the year, Vincent.”
“That won’t be hard. She’s not staying in the country.” The words sickened him. She’d said she hadn’t said yes to that other guy, but would she start seeing him again once she was back in Europe? She’d brushed the Italian off like he meant nothing, but the thought of her with anyone else tightened Vincent’s throat. Lilia wasn’t currently speaking to him, Jan refused to cancel the party, and he desperately wanted to go back and change Christmas.
“When is she leaving?”
“Tomorrow.”
“Then you’d better make good use of today. Don’t let her go without speaking your piece, Vincent.”
She left him in his own misery. He knew he needed to tell Lilia. He knew that sooner or later the truth would come out—and if he waited too long he might miss his window. But what if she said no? What if he’d been right, and she didn’t want more? Could he live with himself if she turned him down? He didn’t know. He sat forward and picked up the phone. He was going to tell her before she left. Tonight. Because he couldn’t live the next few months in the unknown. Tonight, he was going to lay it all on the line.
CHAPTER ELEVEN
“I thought you wanted to go out tonight.” Lilia studied the front of Carrigan’s Pub as Lena parked. New Year’s Eve had arrived quickly, and she had no resolutions. Maybe something like “be divorced and in another country this time next year” would be the most appropriate at this point.
“This is going out. Luke’s having a party. We always have a good time here.”
Lilia bundled her coat against the cold and snow as they rushed into the pub. The place was packed. The jukebox was going strong, and people danced with full cups.
“It’s busy,” Lena yelled as she grasped Lilia’s hand and led them to the bar.
They managed to angle into a spot and flag down Luke.
“Two, please.” Lilia was half tempted to put on an apron and help her brother out. The busy work would keep her mind from forming all sorts of opinions she didn’t want to think about.
Luke brought them their whiskey sours, and they faced the crowd to see what kind of drunk dance party they could have before the new year gave them all a clean slate to mess up.
“To new beginnings.” Lena held up her glass and clinked it with Lilia’s.
New beginnings indeed. Lilia’s flight was first thing in the morning, and it couldn’t come fast enough. Vincent hadn’t been home when Lena had picked her up, and she wasn’t sure if he’d be up when she left. She couldn’t even remember the last thing she’d said to him.
“There you are.” Jan appeared next to her.
“Jan. Hi.” She sipped from her drink, trying to drain as much as possible before having whatever conversation she was about to have. “What are you doing here?”
“The party, of course.”
“Party?” Her voice was octaves higher. The thought of seeing Vincent again made her hands shake. Is he here?
“We’re having it here. Vincent said he’d tell you.”
She nodded with a small, polite smile as she processed the fact that Vincent was throwing a reception party to celebrate their wedding and hadn’t even bothered to tell her about it. He really di
dn’t need her at all.
Her New Year’s celebration was officially over.
“Excuse me.” She ducked away and got a couple of steps before a hand was on her upper arm.
“Wait,” Lena said. “Just wait.”
“You did this, didn’t you?” She stared into the eyes of a traitor.
“I may have played a small part.”
“Unbelievable.”
“Hear him out. If it sucks, then you’ll know, and you can stop sulking and leave the country in good conscience.”
Lilia pulled her arm away and continued to the door. She wasn’t going to talk to Vincent, not in front of a bar full of people. She wasn’t going to put herself out there only to get shot down.
“Lilia Carrigan,” Vincent’s booming voice called out over Luke’s new karaoke corner. “Where are you?”
She stopped dead in her tracks and faced the faux stage. This ought to be fun.
“Can you come up to the front?”
She barely glanced at him as she moved through the crowd to stand by his side.
“I want to thank everyone for coming out to celebrate our marriage.” He laced his fingers with hers, and her heartbeat kicked up. She was going to miss holding his hand.
Lilia surveyed the crowd, and familiar faces popped up—her parents were there, and most of the people from the Carrigan Christmas party list. Why couldn’t this be real? Why couldn’t Vincent be hers forever?
“Now, to my bride.” He set the mic down, stepped closer, and held her other hand, too. “I love you,” he whispered, his lips so close to hers. “I should’ve told you weeks ago. I didn’t know what to do, and I handled everything so badly, but I can’t let you leave without knowing how I feel.”
Tears started to stream down her cheeks. She should say something—words like I love you would work—but all she could do was gaze into his brilliant blue eyes.
“I know we’ve only known each other a short while, but in that time I’ve gotten to know a loving, funny, and exceptionally beautiful woman I can’t live without.” He kissed her. “This world is not without its obstacles, and I am less than perfect. But for you, I’ll try every day to be the best man I can be. That’ll probably not be enough, but for you I’ll give my all.”
Her life flashed before her eyes, and Vincent was in every frame. She loved him. So much.
She tried to say the words, “I love you,” but ended up mouthing them instead. Judging by the smile on his face, he understood.
He got down on one knee in front of her, his back to the crowd. “Lilia, my love, my one and only. Without you, I am so lonely. Please stay with me; let’s build a life. Will you forever be my wife?”
“Yes.” She sniffled, and more tears blurred her vision and dampened her cheeks. “Yes.” She nodded until he was standing and sliding his arms around her hips and kissing her.
“Did you like my rhymes?” he whispered into her ear, then kissed it.
She laughed, wiping her tears away. “I loved them.”
“I figured one of us should really get down on one knee and recite a poem.” He kissed her again, and this time, she heard the claps and hoots around them—she’d forgotten it wasn’t just them in the room. “Oh no.” Her body numbed, and she frowned.
“What?”
“My flight. My trip.” She couldn’t go now. Not when they were really together. Really married.
“We never took a honeymoon.” The sides of his eyes crinkled as his hands rubbed her back. “How about I come with you?”
There was no one else she’d rather have by her side. Christmas was officially her favorite time of the year.
Acknowledgments
Thank you to Crimson Romance for being such an awesome publisher! Tara Gelsomino, thank you for your support! Crimson Romance is a fun and accomplished group of people who make the process enjoyable every step of the way. Thank you for continuing to let me be a part of your business. The lively and professional environment you’ve cultivated is one of which I’m proud to be a part.
Julie Sturgeon—thank you for going on this ride with me. After this project I feel like we can do anything as a team. When I read the word “buzzkill,” forever and always it will be in your voice and I will suddenly need whiskey.
Jami Wagner—thank you for being as excited as I am about this industry. It is truly special to have a friend to lean on, high five, and celebrate with—and who will indulge in crazy brainstorming sessions no matter the day or time! Your excitement and passion for writing is inspiring.
Marissa and Christopher Dresang—thank you for being my sounding board, a calming force in my life, and constantly supportive.
Mary Billiter—thank you for your friendship, support, and the smile you bring to my journey.
Holla to all my Wednesday night writing mates: our lively discussions, laughter, and friendships go a long way!
Thank you to my friends and family who have and continue to support my dreams. You inspire me every day and are appreciated!
Biography
Dana Volney lets her imagination roam free in Wyoming, where she writes romances and helps local businesses succeed with her marketing consulting company. Surrounding herself with good friends, family, and delicious cups of hot chocolate, she thrives on moments and memories created with loved ones, especially during the holidays. That’s when Wyoming’s charm really shines. Dana is bold, adventurous, and—by her own admission—good with plants, having kept a coral cactus alive for more than one year.
More from This Author
Protecting the Prince
Dana Volney
“Wipe that damn smile off your face,” Franklin Black’s voice rasped.
Eliam Prince raised his eyebrows and stared at his stepfather’s beady eyes, tailored pinstriped suit, and indignant stance. This was never your company, old man.
“I’ll have your things boxed up and sent to you.” Eliam unbuttoned the last button on his steel-gray suit jacket and sat in the oversized sherry-colored leather chair—the president’s seat. His rightful seat. “Louis will show you out.” He nodded to Prince Industries’ head of security.
Franklin slammed his thick whiskey glass against the credenza lined with a fully stocked bar in crystal containers of all shapes and sizes. “This isn’t the end.” His scowl cut across the expanse of the office and satisfaction settled into Eliam’s chest.
Oh yes, it was. It was the end of bad times and the first day of a turnaround that would make a positive legacy for his family—he was going to make the company what it once had been. Great. Franklin had never been welcome, not by Eliam. And vice versa. The only thing they’d ever had in common was his mother, and now she was gone. The pain that tightened his chest after a month remained fresh and rampant.
“My mother’s shares are now mine, not yours, and the board agrees it’s time for ownership to be restored to blood.” Eliam’s words were clipped, but that wasn’t nearly as rude as leaping from his seat to strangle the man who had already taken so much from him would be.
Easy, man, you won’t get it all back in a day.
Eliam nearly had to pinch his wrist, inconspicuously of course, to see if this was just another dream. Eight years of putting up with his stepfather lording it over what his mother and real father did wrong—never right—all while profits tanked under Franklin’s watch. Those long years had felt like a lifetime, and now the nightmare was finally over.
Louis corralled Franklin and led him out of Eliam’s office to the elevator. Eliam tuned out Franklin’s echoing angry words: you won’t make it, you have no idea what you’re doing. He’d never have to hear that asshole’s voice again—and that would still be too soon.
Eliam looked up from his laptop to see Louis Jackson filling half of the doorway. He could’ve seen only Louis’s outline and would’ve known it was him by the edges of his pressed, short-sleeved shirt, Dockers, and flattop haircut.
“That went as well as expected.” Louis grabbed a beer from behind th
e credenza and sat on the black leather couch in the middle of the office. “There’s a screw loose with that one. I think we have a problem.”
“Problem?” It was over—he’d been voted out, unanimously.
“I think we need to get you personal security for a while.”
“Not necessary. He’s harmless.” Eliam leaned back in his chair and peered out the wall of windows at the downtown Seattle lights shining from tall buildings and stacked dwellings. From his vantage point, the waterfront was peaceful on the cool, September night.
“Desperate men do desperate things.” Louis shook his head and drank from his beer.
There’d always been an edge to Franklin, a ruthlessness that seemed a little too close to the surface for Eliam’s comfort. But surely Louis was going overboard painting him as a minion from the dark side—there had to be some good for such a kind, gentle, selfless woman like Eliam’s mother to love him. In tomorrow’s light of day, everyone would settle the hell down and business would go back to normal. Greed, incompetence, recklessness, and pride were not pleasant family dinner topics, but they weren’t criminal either.
“He’ll get over it.” Why in the hell were they talking about Franklin? He didn’t matter anymore. “He has no recourse.”
I’ve won.
Franklin was lucky there was nothing Eliam could do to take the money his mother had left the old man. If Eliam contested the will, her decision to give him her ownership would be questioned as well, and leaving Franklin destitute wasn’t worth the risk. Same went for Franklin—both men were at an impasse where her will was concerned.
“A man like that always thinks he has options. And they aren’t usually nice ones.” Louis’s dark skin personified his darkening eyes. Louis had been a part of the company since Eliam’s dad, Amit Prince, had started it. And although he’d been in and out due to his military service, only Louis knew the company as well as Franklin and Eliam.
