Page 109 of Bittersweet Revenge

“I love you Caleb, so much.”

I kissed her. “Say it again.”

She cupped my cheek. “I love you.”

I rested my forehead against hers. “I love you too.” I sighed, finally feeling at peace. No matter what I would face, the challenge of taking over my father's empire at eighteen years of age – everything. I could face everything with that woman by my side.

Chapter 22 - Esme

Caleb laid beside me, his head on top of mine, my hand in his. He had me wrapped in a cocoon of warmth and I loved it.

I sighed, looking at my ring again.

“Are you happy?” he asked, taking my hand and running his thumb over the ring.

“That you’re here with me, that we’re engaged and in love? Yes of course.”

“But?”

I sighed. “Things are a mess.”

He nodded. “I know.” He pulled me closer to him. “But when you’re in my arms I don't seem to care.”

Who would have thought that my man could be so romantic?

I cursed inwardly when somebody knocked. Archie’s head appeared.

“Seriously? I’m outside waiting to see you and you’re cuddling?” he asked, but his voice lacked heat.

Caleb just looked his way before settling back on the bed.

I raised my left hand and showed it to Archie. “We’re engaged!”

“Congratulations! I don't think Caleb could ever do better and if you’re ready to settle...” He shrugged.

Caleb snorted and flipped him off.

I was glad Archie didn’t point out that we’d been engaged before because this was different. This was real and wanted and born from love not hate.

“I brought you your coffee, Astor, but I think it’s time for you to go home and shower. You’re really making the hobo chic your look, man, but two days without a shower should be your limit.”

“You want me to give you some alone time?”

Archie smiled. “And some people say you’re stupid.”

Caleb sighed, clearly reluctant to let go of his spot beside me. “I’m not the one they called Shaggy.”

“I–” Archie’s nostrils flared in anger. “No, I won’t take the bait. Just take your coffee and go. We need some sibling time.”

Caleb smiled yet again and I loved it. I wanted to keep all of his smiles and would make it my life’s mission to make him smile as much as I could.

He bent down and gave me a soft kiss. “I’ll be back later. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Archie gagged as Caleb shook his head and exited the room.

I looked at my brother, my eyes narrowing. “I swear if you make a gagging sound one more time, I will gut you.”

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