Page 103 of Of Vows and Betrayal

Hearing him say home makes my stomach flip in a good, exciting way. “See you tonight.”

I watch him leave before heading back into the shop, feeling a renewed sense of determination. The rest of the day is a whirlwind of activity. Orders come in, and I’m busy arranging bouquets, taking calls, and helping customers.

Late in the afternoon, an elderly woman walks in. She looks around, her eyes brightening as she takes in the sight of the freshly arranged flowers. She approaches the counter with a warm smile.

“It’s so nice to see Midsummer Petals back in business,” she says. “I used to come here when your mother ran the shop. She had such a wonderful touch with flowers. It’s good to see you carrying on her legacy.”

Her words touch me deeply, and I feel a lump in my throat. “Thank you. It means a lot to hear that. I’m doing my best to keep her dream alive.”

“You’re doing a wonderful job, dear,” she says, pattingmy hand. “Your mother would be so proud of you.”

I smile, feeling a rush of gratitude. “Thank you. I hope so.”

As she leaves with her bouquet, I feel a deep sense of fulfillment. This shop is more than just a business; it’s a piece of my mother, a piece of myself. And knowing that I’m making her proud fills me with a sense of purpose. I am grateful to Javier for fighting for this dream to be reborn. I know that this part of my mother would have been lost forever without him.

Just as I’m closing up for the day, my phone buzzes with a text from Javier.

Javier: Working late, but I’ll make it up to you tomorrow. Promise.

I smile, feeling a pang of disappointment.

Me: Don’t work too hard. See you tomorrow.

I head back to the penthouse, the day’s events playing over in my mind. When I walk in, the place feels empty without Javier. But as I set my bag down, I notice a small box on the counter. Curious, I walk over and open it.

Inside is a beautiful gold bee pendant with diamond wings. There’s a note attached.

It’s tracker-free, I promise.

Love always.

I smile, touched by the thoughtful gift. I fasten the pendant around my neck, feeling its comforting weight.

I settle into the couch, the pendant resting against my chest. Despite our challenges, I can feel the slow process of healing begin. Trust is building, brick by brick, and for the first time, I can see a future with Javier that isn’t clouded bydoubt or fear.

I think back to the alley, to his soft eyes and reassuring touch. I regret not telling him I loved him because I do. I never stopped. Maybe that’s why I was so angry with myself—afraid to admit how much he still means to me.

I grab my laptop and start my online class, but today’s events are occupying my mind, preventing me from concentrating. After thirty minutes of struggling, I give up and lie down on the couch, overwhelmed by the day’s emotions.

I sigh, closing my eyes for a minute. Tomorrow, I’ll tell him that I love him—that I want us to try again. Slowly. And with that certainty in my heart, I fall asleep, a small smile playing on my lips.

Chapter 26

Ophelia

Iwake up in bed, a cover draped over me. I must have been so exhausted I didn’t wake up when Javier carried me here from the sofa. It’s a shame—I would have loved to remember the feeling. I turn on the bed and find my phone on the night table. I groan and check the time. It’s three a.m., and my throat is dry.

I get out of bed and head to the kitchen; the apartment silent except for my bare feet padding across the cool floor. I open the fridge, grab a bottle of water, and take a long drink. The cold liquid soothes my throat, and I sigh in relief. As I close the fridge door, I notice a faint light under Javier’s office door. My curiosity piqued, I quietly walk over and peek inside.

Javier is sitting at his desk, his shoulders hunched and his head bent over a stack of papers. The soft glow from the desk lamp casts shadows across his face, making him look even more tired. I hesitate for a moment before softly knocking on the doorframe.

“Javier?” I call out gently.

He looks up, surprise showing in his eyes before atired smile spreads across his face. “Phee, what are you doing up?” His voice is a rough whisper, tinged with exhaustion.

“I could ask you the same thing,” I reply, stepping into the room. “It’s three a.m. Why are you still working?”

He leans back in his chair, rubbing his eyes. “Just trying to catch up on some things. Didn’t realize it was so late.”

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