She shrugs, though I know she still carries the wounds of her childhood. I’m more determined than ever to give this woman the love she never had. Hell, I’ve never had love in my life either, but I know with complete certainty we will find it together.
“I don’t mean to sound ungrateful,” Jaylin continues. “I went to the best schools and had tutors and nannies around almost twenty-four-seven. I was surrounded by opulence, and yet the only thing I desired was a connection. My parents took off on lavish vacations at the drop of a hat, knowing I’d have the staff to look after me. I grew up rich and pathetically lonely.”
“Jaylin,” I breathe out. I knew I hurt her by leaving, but I didn’t realize I was acting just like her parents. “You’re not alone now. You’ll never be alone again.”
She nods, which is like a balm to my soul. My girl is starting to believe me.
“I always wanted to open a flower shop.” She whispers like it’s a secret and saying any louder might jinx it. “But my dad thought it was a stupid idea and a waste of money. My mom just wants me to get married already so I’m someone else’s problem. The longer I stayed with them, the more I felt my soul withering away. They crushed every idea I had, dismissing me and forcing me to live the life they want. But I couldn’t do it anymore.” She pauses to take a breath and gather her thoughts. “So, I figured one night at the auction house would be worth my new start. I had hoped to make enough to rent a small storefront and start living life on my own terms.”
“So brave,” I say softly, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “While I hate the thought of you putting yourself in danger, I understand the need for freedom. You’re so strong, Jaylin.”
“I don’t feel strong. I feel terrified every second of every day. What if I get everything I’ve ever wanted and fail? What if the flower shop goes bankrupt and I’m left homeless with nothing?”
“You’re a millionaire now, remember? I don’t think you need to worry about being homeless.”
She smirks and rolls her eyes at me. “That’s not the point.”
“I know. But don’t you see? Being terrified isn’t the opposite of being strong. The two go hand in hand. True strength is feeling the fear and choosing to push through. You’ve done that over and over again, angel. You’re the strongest person I know.”
Her eyes widen at my words, disbelief coloring her features. “Renzo…”
“It’s true. I admire you so much, Jaylin. I want to keep you and give you the life you deserve, if you’ll let me.”
“But… why?” The genuine confusion in her gaze guts me.
“I fucked all this up,” I mutter. “Please, let me show you how I’ll take care of you every single day. I have a lot of grovelling todo, but I’m up to the challenge. Will you give me another chance, Jaylin?”
6
JAYLIN
Renzo’s deep brown eyes tear me apart as he begs me for another chance. How can I say no to him? Yes, I was hurt and confused when he left, but he’s clearly torturing himself over it. I believe him when he says it won’t happen again. The agony in his gaze is slowly replaced with hope when I smile at him.
“Yes, I’ll give you another chance,” I murmur. Renzo’s lips pull into a wide, genuine smile of relief and joy. He’s absolutely beautiful in this moment. Brutal, yes, but also radiant.
“Thank you, my gorgeous angel.” He presses kisses to my temple, forehead, and cheeks, before licking the seam of my lips.
I gladly open up for him, overwhelmed by both of our confessions. I’ve never talked about my parents with anyone, and I know he’s never shared his emotions with anyone else.
His hand snakes up my body and brushes against my breast, causing me to moan into his kiss. Renzo slides his leg between both of mine, and I shamelessly grind down on him, my body already seeking release.
I tug on his shirt, needing to see all of him. Renzo breaks the kiss, his eyes roaming hungrily over my curves. “Tell me what you want, Jaylin.”
“I want all of you.” His intense eyes soften at my words, and he nuzzles into the side of my neck. It’s such a sweet and surprising gesture, which makes me trust him even more. He really would give up his power and kingdom to make me comfortable.
“Nothing between us is transactional, do you understand?” I nod, but Renzo takes my chin between his thumb and finger, forcing our eyes to meet. “I need your words, Jaylin. I need you to know what we have is real. You already have your money, and you’ll keep it no matter what. I just want to show you how amazing you are. I want to make you feel so damn good. I’m going to worship your body, but only with your permission.”
God, this man. I was so upset with him earlier today, and now… Now, Renzo is looking at me like I’m the most precious thing in the world.
“I trust you, Renzo,” I whisper. “What we have is real. I feel it, too.”
“Thank fuck,” he breathes out, making me giggle. Renzo hums and kisses my throat, his beard tickling me and making me laugh even harder. “Love that sound, sweet girl. But I’m looking forward to hearing a few other sounds from you…”
The adoration shining is his brown eyes darkens to lust. He sits up and pulls me off the bed, stripping me down until I’m bare before him. I start to cover my belly and chest, but he loops his fingers around my wrists and gently pushes them out of the way.
“Let me see you, my precious girl,” he coaxes. The fire in his gaze makes me bold. I remember the dirty things he promised me when we were on the couch yesterday, and I suddenly can’t wait to get started.
I reach out and cup the bulge in his pants, stroking his intimidating length through the fabric. Renzo groans and tips his head back, swaying on his feet as if he’s about to collapse.
