Dad exhales, the tension in his shoulders easing, mine easing, too.
“I just needed to be sure you weren’t swept up in something temporary. That your heart is safe.” He shakes his head, a small, disbelieving laugh leaving him. “But it’s obvious, you didn’t fall into this, Frankie. Yougrewinto it.” He squeezes my hand, gentle but sure. “And if this is who you love…I’m with you.”
I fold into him, arms wrapped tight around his shoulders, breathing him in—comfort that feels both familiar and brand new.
He presses a kiss to my temple. “If he ever steps out of line, I’ll handle it personally.”
I let out a shaky laugh as I pull back. “Dad…”
“Knox filled me in on Jenna,” he says. “And on the plan you two put together.” His gaze searches mine. “Before we loop him back in, I need to hear it from you. Are you certain about the approach?”
My heartbeat steadies as I nod. “Yes. Completely.”
He studies me a moment longer, something proud sparking behind his eyes.
A familiar meow breaks the beat. We both flick our attention toward the hallway as Knox rounds the corner, Stripe tucked under one arm and Shadow trotting at his heels like he’s leading a security detail.
His gaze flicks between Dad and me. “Is this where I’m supposed to pretend I wasn’t eavesdropping?”
Dad huffs, a sound hovering close to a laugh. “Come on, son,” he says, motioning Knox forward. “Let’s walk through the plan once more, start to finish, before we meet with my photographers and my contact at theNew York Times.”
I always thought the scariest part of loving someone was the possibility of losing them.
But I was wrong.
The scariest part is realizing the world is about to know something that once lived only in whispered moments—andin the way Knox looks at me when he thinks no one else is watching.
Going public changes how we’ve existed all summer.
Reaching for Knox’s hand, I ease into the fact that this is our new normal. Us. In real life.
Whatever comes next, we’re choosing it together…
Press Release – For immediate distribution
From the Office of Knox Everette Ryder, Founder & CEO, Luxe Properties
New York, NY–Luxe Properties confirms that Knox Everette Ryder and Jenna Blair finalized the terms of their divorce earlier this year. The couple parted ways amicably and privately, choosing to respect each other’s personal and professional lives.
“While I’ve kept my personal life separate from my work, transparency matters,” Ryder said in a prepared statement. “Jenna and I closed our marriage with grace, clarity, and mutual respect. We wish each other well.”
Ryder also requested privacy moving forward regarding speculation or attempts to sensationalize the timeline or circumstances of their separation.
In the same statement, Ryder acknowledged that he is currently in a new relationship.
“I’m grateful for the support I’ve received during this transition,” he added. “I’m choosing to move forward with honesty and integrity, both personally and professionally.”
Luxe Properties will not be commenting further on private matters.
The New York Times – Business & Society Desk
Exclusive Photo: Luxe Properties Founder Knox Everette Ryder seen with Francesca Camille Beaumont amid post-divorce transition.
By Lila Hartmann
Published: September 07
New York
