Page 265 of Enthrall Shadows
He accepted the piece of paper from his brother and stepped forward to read it.
“My job is to ensure Cole Tea remains on an even keel—especially in rough waters. Decisions on how to deal with the storms that find us are my own.
An honor I don’t take lightly.
On a more personal note, there were reasons I didn’t wish to share my affliction with the public. In all honesty, I once saw it as a weakness. But to believe that is a disservice to my military brothers and sisters.
I didn’t get that untilnow.
Not until I met a woman who helped me see my life differently.
Someone who made this man see the light, to envision my condition as a mark of sacrifice for my country—the consequences of putting my life on the line for you.
And of course, you and you.
Proving I am, and always have been, a proud American.
I will always believe in justice and freedom. With every cell of my being, I know it is a worthy fight. To serve in the military was a gift that enabled me to save others.
To fight for peace.
To fight for love.
There’s another revelation which I am happy to share with you tonight. The woman who opened my eyes in this way is here.”
Henry’s gaze met mine.
“This woman came into my life like a sunrise after the darkest night. Lotte Chamberlain.
Lotte is not only exceptionally beautiful, she is also remarkably smart. She stands up to me. Her wisdom surpasses many.
Now, the press savors rumors and drama and juicy gossip. This time, I’m cutting you all off at the pass.
Lotte is a dominatrix.
She hasn’t hit my ass yet with a whip, but the night is still young.
Personally, I don’t practice BDSM.
I just want you all to hear that I’m really into this remarkable woman and if you write one bad word about her, I’ll buy your newspaper. Or magazine. Or TV station. And then I’ll personally fire your ass.
This I promise you.
So back off.
Of course, I’m joking, freedom of speech is everything in this country. I fought for that, too.
Still, I am human and will defend her like the knight in shining armor she deserves.
Anyway, I just wanted you to see how lucky I am to have her in my life. And, Lotte, I wanted to tell you personally, in front of all these people, how special you are to me.”
He glanced up at me. “You were no longer in the room, so I changed that a little.”
“Although it’s too early to say those elusive words that convey love, you may find, my darling, that I will whisper them to you sooner than you believe possible.”
Henry shrugged. “My speech went like that.”
I leaped to my feet and ran toward him, wrapping my arms around his waist. “I’m sorry I didn’t stay.”
