Chapter 9 - THE VELVET ONYX
Six months later.
The Velvet Onyx was packed. The soft jazz trio was playing a lively tune in the corner, and the amber lighting made the expensive wine glasses sparkle.
I stood in the service kitchen, but I wasn't wearing a cheap black uniform.
I was wearing a tailored navy blue suit.
“Harper,” Chef Henry walked up, wiping his hands on a towel. He smiled warmly. “Table Seven is asking for the manager.”
I grinned. “I’ll handle it, Henry. Thanks.”
I walked out through the swinging doors, moving smoothly through the crowded dining room. My ribs had healed perfectly. My skin was clear. I didn't need to wear concealer anymore.
I approached the private alcove. The heavy velvet curtains were pulled back.
Gabriel was sitting at the table. He looked up as I approached, that familiar, calm smile playing on his lips.
“Is there a problem with the service, sir?” I asked, raising an eyebrow.
“No problem,” Gabriel stood up. He pulled out the chair next to him. “I just hate eating alone.”
I sat down.
The last six months had been a whirlwind. Mitchell’s dictaphone had contained enough evidence to dismantle the entire corrupt network within the 14th precinct. Captain Miller took a plea deal and was currently serving twenty years in federal prison.
With Mitchell gone, the police dropped all the fabricated charges against me. My custody of Leo was fully secured.
Gabriel had retired from the darker sides of his family’s business. He focused entirely on his legitimate investments, starting with buying the Velvet Onyx and promoting me to General Manager.
“How was school pickup?” Gabriel asked, pouring me a glass of sparkling water.
“Loud,” I laughed. “Leo wanted me to ask if you’re still coming to his soccer game on Saturday.”
“I wouldn't miss it,” Gabriel smiled warmly. “I bought us matching foam fingers.”
I reached across the table and took his hand.
His fingers traced over my wrist. There were no bruises there anymore. Just clear, healthy skin.
“You know,” Gabriel said softly, looking into my eyes. “I never did ask you what you wanted to do with that Rolex Mitchell planted on you.”
“I gave it to charity,” I joked.
Gabriel chuckled. He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a small, square velvet box.
He slid it across the white tablecloth toward me.
“I thought we could replace it with something a little more meaningful,” Gabriel said, his dark eyes entirely sincere.
My breath caught in my throat.
I opened the box. Inside, resting on white satin, was a stunning, simple diamond ring.
“No more hiding, Harper,” Gabriel whispered. “No more running. Just us.”
I looked from the ring to the man who had caught me when I collapsed. The man who had fought a war for my son. The man who had given me my life back.
I didn't need to pretend anymore.
May you like
I smiled, tears of pure joy welling in my eyes.
“Yes,” I said, sliding the ring onto my finger. “Just us.”
