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“He’s been taking some of your monthly allowance and investing it for you. He finally cashed it and was planning on giving it to you for your birthday. Surprise, baby, you’re half a mil away from becoming a millionaire.”

“Money isn’t important, Maddox.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes, you’re all that matters. You and my family, the Lexingtons and the McCabes. Arthur is right. Family is about more than blood. Family is made up of friends. My cousins are my friends. My men are my friends. Collins and Granger are my friends too, though Granger is my blood. He’s my half-brother. Holy shit, I haven’t told him yet.”

Maddox laughs, then stops laughing. “Ow. Ow. I love you, baby, but please, don’t make me laugh again. My entire body hurts. And no worries on not telling him. Granger’s a smart guy and probably put two and two together a long time ago.”

“I stole his mother’s necklace. He had every right to kill me for taking his only memento of his mother’s love for him. Instead, he spared my life. I saw a picture of Cillian’s wife wearing it in one of the fashion magazines my mom loved to flip through. I told him who she was. He refused to believe he is a McCabe. Deep down, though, I think he knew he was meant for a different life other than bagging groceries. But he had too much pride to accept his position at my father’s side. Our father gave us up. Manipulated our lives.”

My eyes water. The tears fall. I wipe them away.

“How could I love him after what he’s done? How could I break your heart to protect a monster?”

“Because you’re a good person with a big heart, Blaise. A wise man once told me ‘patience is a virtue, and in darkness, there is light.’ Give Cillian the gift of time, love. I think you’ll find he won’t disappoint you.”

What he says has me crying harder. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too, Blaise.”

I snuggle into his warmth. “Thank you.”

“For what, baby?”

“For sparing me from seeing how you dole out Hale’s punishment.”

“We’re done with violence. Kindness and forgiveness begets kindness and forgiveness.”

“Forgiveness is my peace.”

“I know, baby.” He rubs up and down my arm. “Forgive your father and Hale, and be done with it, sweetheart. We have a birthday to plan and baby Stassis to make.”

“I’d like that. I want lots and lots of babies.”

“Whatever you want, I’ll gladly give. However, do you mind if we just snuggle tonight?”

“How can I refuse?” I tilt my head and drop a kiss on the underside of his jaw. “You went to battle for me. Now, rest, husband of mine. Tomorrow, we slay a dragon.”

He chuckles. “I love you, baby.”

“I love you, too. Good night.”

“Good night, my love.”