Rory scoffs. “You’re kidding.”
Asher shakes his head. “I talked with the warden myself.”
“Can I ask?” I start. “What happened to Agents Huntley and Cassidy?”
Asher tilts his head to the side. “Cassidy was transferred to San Francisco, and Huntley retired.”
My expression goes slack. “Retired? But he was only?—”
“The move may not have been a choice he wanted to make,” Asher says with a knowing look.
Oh.
Hunter claps his hands and rubs them together. “Well, thank you for all of your help, but we’d better get going.”
Zane arches a brow at me and lowers his voice, stepping closer as the guys and Asher thank each other and say quick goodbyes. “I know that the story you all told was just that—a story. If you ever decide to officially change your story, there won’t be any repercussions from law enforcement.”
I swallow a gulp.
Zane’s expression softens. “I’m not going to tell anyone. I know you did what you had to do. Just give me a call if you change your mind.”
I do my best to muster up a ghost of a smile. “Thank you, Detective, but I’ll be sure to keep that in mind.”
Zane steps back, walking away with Asher.
“Let’s get you home. You have some presents to open.”
Sittingaround the largest Christmas tree in the penthouse, I let out a big exhale as Rory hands me another present. I’m already surrounded by mounds of wrapping paper and various gifts.
I’ve made myself comfortable on the lush rug, Luke is situated close to me, Hunter relaxes on the couch, and Rory is running around like a puppy, handing out gifts.
My eyes widen. “This one too?”
“Yep,” Rory answers with a pop.
I glare at the three of them. “You’re all in the doghouse.”
It’s made clear that no one takes me seriously as Hunter responds, “Sure. Whatever you say.”
Holding the box in my lap, they wait for me to open it.
My vision blurs as I stare down at the perfectly wrapped present.
Luke leans forward, placing a hand on my ankle. “Why are you crying?”
Hunter jumps up from the couch and sits behind me, bracketing my body with his legs and pulling me into his chest. “What’s wrong?”
Rory freezes mid-step. “I’ll take the three diamond necklaces back if that’s the problem.”
“No, it’s not that.” I shake my head, smiling through the tears. “I’m just reallyreallyhappy.”
Hunter kisses my cheek. “Get used to it, Heartbreaker.”
EPILOGUE
SAVANNAH
Wind pounds on the glass and low brick walls enclosing the rooftop. Heat lamps are scattered about the area, giving the RHL exclusive NYE party a warm amber glow. The décor is minimal and refined—limited to strings of lights, charcoal linens, crystal glassware, and brushed metal accents.
