“Today’s the day,” Amber whispered, resting her hand on my chest. “After this press conference… she’s done.” Her lips curved into a satisfied smile. “Finally.”
She didn’t need to say who. Emerald.
I nodded slightly, brushing lint off my suit jacket. “There won’t be a comeback for her this time.”
The press conference at eleven would be the final blow—public humiliation, forced apology, denial of the affair she claimed existed. All recorded, televised, and sent straight to both families’ boards to restore our reputation. After that, Emerald’s life would crumble so completely she’d never find her way out again.
Amber giggled softly, then traced the line of my tie with her good hand. “After today… we can finally talk to your father again.” She looked up, eyes sparkling with the kind of hope she only showed me. “Can you imagine, Nat? Our wedding? Me walking down the aisle, your mother welcoming me like a daughter?”
I smiled faintly. “They’ll approve it. Once Emerald is gone, there’ll be nothing to stop us.”
“Mm-hm.” She leaned closer, whispering against my ear. “I can’t wait. It’s been years, Nathan. We deserve this.”
Years.
Years of hiding.
Years of pretending.