Marrying the Man in the Dark

“Why the sudden silence?” Damien held his phone with a knowing smile, watching the children bicker playfully, However, the question was quickly forgotten as a blur of motion dashed toward him.

His teasing was abruptly interrupted by a whirlwind.

Cherise, with her arms outstretched like a joyous bird, crashed into his embrace. He effortlessly caught her, his strong frame easily absorbing her momentum. So, what’s got you buzzing like a hummingbird on sugar water? Something tells me your reunion with Aunt Priscilla went well.”

Cherise nestled in Damien’s arms, finding comfort in his familiar scent. “Mm-hmm,” she confirmed, a contented sigh escaping her lips.

“Happy?” he asked.

“Very,” she mumbled, her arms tightening around his waist. “But how did you manage all this?”

A hint of guilt colored his voice as he confessed, “Because I wanted to give you another wedding. Five years ago, ours turned into a nightmare. I’ve never forgiven myself for that.”

Lyra’s wedding with such joy, I realized maybe… maybe we deserved another chance. Not as adversaries, but as husband and wife. A chance to clear my father’s name, to set the record straight about your mother. A chance to finally lay

with a playful wink, “our two

question lingering in his eyes. “And by the way, I couldn’t help

down your mom’s

you two hit it off all those years

into a playful pout. “Naive? Me?”

rumble that sent shivers down her spine. “Mm-hmm, hopelessly so.”

quickly melted away. “No, you’re the one!” she retorted, burying her face in his chest, her

a woman who needs your help with everything, drives you crazy with worry, and you just grin and

been her constant, her anchor in the storm. Five years ago, he had guided her to her parents; five years later, he had gifted her Aunt Priscilla and cousin