Shattered By Control

I love them for it, and I love that my mom finally has the retirement she deserves. And frankly, she’s thriving. I’ve never seen her so happy before in my whole life.

And I noticed that Genaro’s been spending a lot of time around the villa, although Mom insists they’re just friends.

Whatever makes her happy.

I sweep into the suite and shut the door, intent on rinsing off, finding a book, and ordering down to the kitchen for some dinner. Instead, Fynn’s sitting near the window with a whiskey in hand, staring pensively down at the red-rock grounds. I hesitate, frowning, as he looks over at me.

His face breaks into a smile. God, I love that smile so much it makes my chest ache. He’s always grinning whenever he sees me like just walking into the room makes his day better. It’s intoxicating, making him so happy. I love it more than I love anything else—except maybe sleeping with him at night.

“There you are,” he says. “I’ve been waiting very patiently.”

“I thought you were with Casso and the others down at the bowling alley?”

He shakes his head. “Came back early.” He finishes his drink and stands.

My PT brain takes over. I’m looking at his legs, his stance, the strain on his face, searching for any signs that he might be in pain or backsliding—

He walks to me with an easy, confident stride. There’s still the barest hint of a hitch, hardly noticeable unless someone’s searching for it. No cane, no help. His own two feet.

I laugh as he sweeps me into his arms and kisses me deep and slow.

My husband. My heaven. I luxuriate in that kiss, tasting it, drinking it down. He’s a madness I can’t get rid of and don’t want to remove. He’s the heaven I’ve always dreamed about.

We break apart, but his hands linger on my hips. “Good news,” he says quietly. “Casso cut a deal with the Koreans.”

“Does that mean—?”

“We’re officially done with the war.”

“Oh, god, that’s such good news.” I hug him tight, squeezing, and I feel a tension in my shoulders slowly unwind.

“We gained territory in the deal and entered into a nice business arrangement. After this, we’re going to be stronger than we’ve ever been, and all thanks to Casso’s clever political maneuvering. And Nico’s viciousness.”

“Don’t sell yourself short. You helped.”

“I limped around and yelled. But I guess that was helping.”

I laugh and kiss him again. “Does this mean you’ll be home more often?”

“Definitely. And it means we’ll have plenty of time to work on knocking you up.” His hands move up my hips, and I know what he’s thinking.

I’m thinking the same thing. “Shower?”

“At first. And then the bed, the sauna, the couch…”

I bite his lower lip. “You ravenous beast.”

“Come on, princess. Come satisfy me.”

“Gladly.”