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.”

her spine. “Seeing you plan 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 all these troubles to

added with a playful wink, “our two

“And by the way, I couldn’t help but overhear you asking about Lyra’s family the other day…”

down your mom’s

his eyes twinkling. “No wonder you two hit it off all those years ago. Naive birds

lips curved into a playful

chuckled, a low rumble that sent shivers down her spine. “Mm-hmm, hopelessly

retorted, burying her

worry, and you just grin and bear it. Tell me, who’s

banter, her heart brimmed with gratitude. Damien had been her constant, her anchor in the storm. Five years ago,