Page 93 of Falling For You

“I’m sure I will,” I said, leaning back in my chair again. “But I’ll live with it. Can you say the same?”

“Your life is ruined. It’s over in this business, and it’s finished in every other professional way,” Tom snarled.

I chuckled, which only infuriated them more. “I’ve got enough money to take care of my family and then some. My life isn’t ruined. In fact, it’s just beginning.”

Before they could respond, I ended the call.

The silence in the room was deafening, but for the first time in days, I felt a sense of peace. The storm had passed, and while consequences were waiting on the horizon, they didn’t matter. Not anymore.

I turned to the window, watching as the town came to life below me.

Small groups walked along the streets, some carrying signs from the morning while others undoubtedly chatted about their plans for the day.

But one thing was certain.

Buttercup Lake felt alive, vibrant, and free.

And so did I.

My phone buzzed on the table, and I glanced down at a text from Vern.

Vern:I’ve decided. I’m selling the land to Violet’s family. They’re making a fair offer, and with your help, I think we can finalize everything by the end of the week. Thanks for helping me see things clearly and for offering to make up the difference. I didn’t tell them that part of the deal at your request.

I exhaled slowly, feeling the weight lift off my shoulders.

It was done.

Vern had decided, and Violet’s family would finally get the land they deserved. They would keep their lodge.

Keep their home.

It wasn’t a perfect solution, but it was the best I could have hoped for.

A knock on the door pulled me from my thoughts. I stood and crossed the hotel room to open it.

The moment the door swung open, I saw Violet standing there with her arms crossed over her chest and an unreadable expression.

But just as gorgeous as ever.

“Hey,” I said softly, leaning on the door. “What brings you here?”

“We need to talk.”

I stepped aside, letting her in. She walked past me and into the room.

Her eyes briefly scanned the space before settling on me again.

She spun around and stared at me. “What do you think you’re doing?”

Chapter Twenty-Five

Violet

I took a deep breath as I stood in front of Owen’s hotel room. The hallway had the usual rustic, expensive charm.

But it wasinside the room where I needed to be, and I just couldn’t bring myself to knock yet.

I took another breath and exhaled slowly.

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