“Oh…” She shrugs, waving a hand in the air in an ill-fated attempt to dismiss it. “I don’t know.”
“Wow, you are a big fan.”
Her cheeks flush a deep shade of red, and I feel bad for teasing her. “Honestly, I’m a little starstruck,” she admits, and I chuckle.
“Is that right?”
She nods, and I snap my head to the side to get her to come close enough for me to pull her back into bed. Then I wrap my arms around her and kiss her sweet lips, rolling her so I’m on top.
She grins, gazing up at me with so much love in her eyes, and I can’t believe this incredible woman is mine.
“That’s all right, baby,” I whisper, bending to kiss her once more. “The feeling’s mutual.”
Epilogue
Harper
ONE YEAR LATER
“Harper, go!” Bruno hollers into my earpiece. The rumble of my fans stomping and cheering fills my body. I’m buoyant. Exhilarated.
I know it’s time to leave, but first I turn my face up to watch the fireworks explode over London, following their glittering trails as they streak through the sky. Then I peer out into the sea of outstretched arms waving back and forth, and I feel it. We’re all living in this moment together. I’m right here with them.
“Now, Harper!”
I grin, spinning on my heel and ducking backstage, where my man awaits.
“You were incredible, baby.” Chase’s strong arms pull me in against his chest, and I feel the pride in his words.
“Thank you, hun.” I’m still out of breath, but I tip my face up for a quick kiss. Then he hands me my water, and I guzzle it in one go.
Two of Chase’s supporting security staff flank us as he walks me backstage to my dressing room. They’re discreet and professional—nothing like Tony and his team—and I never mind having them around.
It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since I snuck out of MetLife Stadium and stepped into my brand new life with Chase—a life that feels rich and authentic in a way it never did before.
But my love life and security situation aren’t the only things that have improved dramatically. When Garrett took over as my manager a few weeks after I returned, everything changed for the better. The schedule. The people. The whole work environment feels sustainable and energized. I couldn’t be happier with his team and how it’s all worked out.
Thankfully, the scandal surrounding me and Johnny Sayers blew over without serious repercussions. My old PR team had an official statement they wanted me to read, but it didn’t ring true. So instead, I stepped in front of the press and spoke from my heart. I told them the truth—I’d been under the impression our relationship was real—but I tried to give Johnny and his team grace as well. I understood the pressure he’s under, trying to keep his own brand afloat.
We reach my dressing room, and Chase leans on the doorjamb, watching me towel off.
“I’m sweating like crazy tonight.” I dab at my face and my cleavage.
He chuckles. “I like to see you sweat.”
His words have me remembering the first time I saw him, working out at the gym. Sweat beading his brow. “Likewise.” I wink. Lucky me, now that Chase has designated himself my personal bodyguard, he works out even more than he used to. He says he needs to be in top form to keep me safe. I’m not going to argue with him.
Melody cruises past him with some extra towels and water for me. “Hey, Chase.”
He nods. “Melody.”
“This guy.” She grins, hooking a thumb back toward him. “Quite the romantic, huh?” She raises her brows.
Yes. Always. But I can already tell by her eyes Chase has planned something special for me tonight.
“Why do you mention it?” I ask innocently, fluttering my lashes.
“Oh, I—” She turns back to Chase, but he shrugs a shoulder, feigning ignorance. Then she cringes. “You know what? I’m just gonna—” She leaves the sentence unfinished, sidling past him on her way out. She glances back and shoots me an apologetic look, and I grin.
