“I know. I’ve read everything you posted there, now that I have it on my own private server. That last cliffhanger wasbrutal. You tore my heart out. I’m not sure if I’ll ever be able to forgive you,” I tease.
Her jaw drops. “Y-you’ve read my Romantasy novels? Both of them?”
“I have. And I realize, I’ve been a realbastardoto deprive your fans of your words these past couple of months.” Carefully, I say, “I wish to make amends. Everything should be restored to you now.”
“Everything… You mean—?” She grabs her phone, eyeing me as she searches for the publishing app that I took down. A small gasp escapes her parted lips as she scans the page. “There are even new readers who’ve found it already.”
“Good. Since I now own the app, I placed your books on the front page advertising space. I hope that helps.”
She stares at me like I’ve lost my mind. “Helps? That’s absolutely amazing. That space is expensive—even too rich for my blood.” That single line between her brow makes an appearance as she taps on her phone. Tears shine in her beautiful eyes.
My heart lurches. “What’s wrong? Did someone leave you a mean comment?”I’ll fucking?—
“No.” She visibly swallows, wiping at her unshed tears. “You gave it all back. My bank account—it’s all there.”
Oh. Relief floods my system, even as guilt lingers. My fingers unclench. “I’ll never apologize for wanting you, Elena, but I realized that for you to flourish as a writer, you needed your things returned to you. I hope you’ll be inspired to finish your story. I know I’m not the only fan waiting for its conclusion.”
She blushes a pretty shade of pink. “Thank you. This means a lot to me. I honestly didn’t know if I was ever going to be able to write again. Without sharing my stories with the world, it seemed pointless.”
Her admission wrenches my heart. I didn’t realize that when I took away her means to escape me, I also stole a part of her identity, and her creativity. I stole away her muse. I’m sure that added to her slide back into depression and anxiety. A sliver of guilt slithers beneath my defenses. That was wrong of me.
“Please share them with the world. You’re a talented writer, it would be a pity to see it go to waste.” All I’ve ever wanted for Elena is for her to flourish. I saw too much of her wasting away those first couple of years in Italy. She’s come so far since then.
“I’m sure I’ll be inspired by the time we get back home. I didn’t bring my laptop. I haven’t written anything in weeks,” she admits.
“I want you to enjoy yourself while we’re here, but if you decide part of that enjoyment is writing, then… I got you a gift.” I go to my side of the bed and retrieve the box from my suitcase. “Here.”
Tentatively, she opens the discreet outer box to find my gift inside. “You bought me a new laptop? And it’s… pink. My favorite color.” A small smile graces her lips.
I nod. “Your other one is quite a few years old. Thought it was time for an upgrade.”
“Thank you,” she breathes as she unboxes it, dinner set aside as she explores her new computer. Her excitement warms my chest. I had it preloaded with all the programs she uses and a few additional ones that I found recommended by writers on a sub-Reddit.
Her smile’s intoxicating. And this isn’t even the biggest surprise I have planned for her on our honeymoon. I can’t wait to see what she thinks of tomorrow.
CHAPTER 33
Elena
Isit on a huge black horse with an incredibly long, wavy mane. My gold fairy queen gown covers its hind quarters and drapes at my sides. A dazzling crown perches on top of my flowing, dark auburn hair. Today’s a literal dream come true. A fantasy come to life. Something I never would have thought of for myself, and never knew I desperately needed until now.
“Tilt your head a little to the right. Yes. Hold that pose.” The photographer, a talented woman named Malyia, raises the camera to her eye and snaps a series of photos. I feel like an epic heroine.
We’ve been at it since early dawn, taking advantage of the mist rising from the lake and the first rays of daylight shining through the trees. Maximo stands to the side, quietly watching and helping with the horse when needed. He’s been a real prince. Just glancing at him has my stomach swooping and diving. He’s so much more than I ever imagined.
“And that’s a wrap,” Malyia announces.
I lean forward and pat the horse’s neck. “You hear that? Your work is done for the day, Midnight.”
The stallion whinnies, shaking his enormous head. My stomach lurches as he shifts his feet. I don’t have a saddle or reins to hold onto, those would ruin the magic of the photos.
“I’ve got him.” Maximo steps forward and gently holds Midnight’s head, slipping a harness around his neck to lead him. The stallion’s easygoing, ambling along at Maximo’s encouragement. I hang on to his mane, trying not to fall off, as we make our way back to the central clearing where the horse trailer waits among the tall grass.
Today’s the first time I’ve ridden a horse and it’s both an exhilarating and slightly terrifying experience. I can’t imagine going any faster than a walk—but one day I’d like to try. I’m sure a saddle would help me feel more secure up here. Reins wouldn’t hurt either.
I ride Midnight slowly through the woods. Malyia walks up ahead, giving us space. In the light of day, this forest isn’t nearly as frightening as it was the first night.
When we reach the clearing, Maximo turns to look up at me. “Are you ready to part ways with your faithful beast, my lady?”
