Chapter 18

Chapter 18

Six weeks later, Ash picked up a call from Saint.

‘Turn on the news. ABC.’

He flicked his desk screen to a live coverage channel, where a dark-haired host droned away.

The visuals flicked to a series of maps and grainy footage of a night op in motion.

‘An Australian hostage has been rescued in a recent dramatic operation involving a joint US and Australian special operations task force in Somalia.

After touchdown some days ago, they advanced on foot to the Salebaan pirate clan compound south of Mogadishu.

The kidnapped ex-soldier was freed during a fierce firefight. Twenty gunmen holding the hostage lost their lives, officials said.

According to reports, the kidnappers had seized Soldier X many years ago during a protracted battle in Afghanistan.

Injured during the initial firefight, he became collateral between various militia groups.

At the time of the rescue, he was a captive of the Salebaan Clan, which dominates piracy, smuggling and trafficking off the coast of central Somalia. Key figures from the clan were also arrested in the raid.

Liberated, Soldier X flew back to Australia in a military aircraft. From reports, Soldier X’s family and friends wept for joy at the news he was now free.

Somalia’s transitional government welcomed the operation. The new U.N. envoy to Somalia – the first permanent U.N. representative to the region in 17 years – also supported the successful military exercise.’

Ash breathed out, turning off the screen. ‘Fuck yeah.’

The Sovereign crew were seven days back from their harrowing overseas mission.

Where they’d brought home Slade North, the last and missing man from their Sabre Squad.

Saint huffed on the line. ‘You were a GOAT in theatre. Never seen you so ruthless with a sniper rifle.’

‘We all were, brother. I couldn’t have lived with myself if we’d failed him again. How’s he doing?’

‘Not talking. Sleeping most times and deep into rehab or silent when awake. Apart from this evening, Kamila has been by his side all day, every day.’

‘I can imagine. She was a badass, too, during the whole show.’

‘The woman outdid herself.’

‘I’ll visit Sydney next week to check in on him.’

‘No worries, Ash. See you soon. I’m heading to the Eatery now for a well-earned whisky.’

‘I’ll be there soon to raise a glass with you in a few, my friend. For a job well done.’

Saint was staying at Falcon House. He and the rest of the Sabre Squad were taking a well-earned vacation after their successful mission.

Ash tapped off the call and gazed out of his window.

His heart ached recalling how he’d wept when he’d seen Slade’s thin, worn face for the first time in over a decade.

It still killed him. Yet their reunion had been as sweet as he’d imagined after all these years.

‘Babe, you coming?’

He shook himself out of his head and turned to see the love of his life tracking towards him.

Her beauty exploded all over him, wrecking him like it did every time he saw her.

When she got to his side, he bent and gave her a searing kiss, ignoring her lip gloss protests.

She panted against his lips when he released her. ‘What was that for?’

‘For being my light out of the darkness. Thinking of you and the boys and Slade’s freedom kept me alive these past few weeks.’

She gave him a long, tender, gentle look as her eyes misted over.

‘You’re not alone in that sentiment, Falconer. We are each other’s light.’

He stroked her cheek. ‘And may it shine on, steady over the years. Now light my way to this party.’

The Sovereign crew gathered in the gardens just outside The Eatery.

Drinks circulated, and nibbles were served as they waited to start their well-deserved banquet.

The sky was awash with brilliant pinks and oranges. At the same time, a rainbow arched above in a kaleidoscope of reds, yellows, oranges, blues, indigos, and violet.

The colours of the Big Dipper and of hope.

While not quite celebrating, the Sovereign family was marking its recent victories and taking time to cherish each other over a meal.

Cece wore a draped midi dress, an easy and breezy masterpiece that flowed over her curves. She’d paired it with her signature Identita heels, this time in bright purple.

Ash was in casual slacks, tee and slides, a reliable pairing with little effort or rules required other than the fit of the trousers over his muscled body and the slim T-shirt.

Jake and Mason were in shorts and tees. Their feet shod in good old Aussie flip-flops. In which they implausibly raced around the property during cocktail hour.

Rose showed up in a stunning gown in peacock colours. Kit, grinning with her on his arm. Liam accompanied them, now their unofficial third son. Diesel, too, was present, as was Reg.

Saint, Kris, Kamila and Cole represented the Sydney crew.

The men came in stylish tees and slim slacks combos with suave dress shoes. Kamila shone in a drop-dead navy sheath dress.

During the last few days, Cece got to know Ash’s Sovereign crew better. Kris was dark-haired, tall, silver-eyed, and imposing. Almost pirate-like with his rough-bearded-messy-man-bun and dark hair with silver highlights.

Kamila, who’d jetted in just for the evening from Sydney, was stunning. Her hair hung down her back and was a deep black, her eyes shimmering with intelligence, her skin honey dark and smooth.

Cece thought she was a fitter, more shredded version of Naomi Campbell.

Quiet and self-assured, Kamila’s eyes flicked around, noticing everything around her, even the finest and most minor details.

Cece liked her, having shared in-depth conversations about life, love and loss earlier that day poolside at Falcon House.

Jake’s excited shouts broke through her thoughts. She watched him race around the gardens with Ash in pursuit, hunting him down. Father and son collapsed on the grass in an impromptu father-son wrestling match.

It was adorable and heart-melting.

Cece spotted Mason standing by the tangled pair, a wistful look in his eye.

Ash, too, noticed because he looked up mid-wrestle and beckoned to her son.

Mace, who’d missed out on the attention of a father for many years now, now had Ash’s love to count on.

The joy on his face was incandescent as he threw himself on Ash. His laughter brought tears to her eyes as Ash treated Mason to a moment of pure magic, tackling him to the ground.

‘Not this shit again.’

Cece turned to see Saint loping up to her, a grin on his face and a toothpick between his lips.

‘Got to give it to him, big guy is on target. Even when he’s got two bucks shaking their antlers at him, he has them both in a crucifix while taking some good belting with the elbows.’

Cece laughed at Saint’s commentary. She’d come to enjoy the man’s dry humour.

He wore it like armour, always sanguine, droll, and light on the surface with a thick impenetrable wall underneath. Yet she sensed there was so much more depth to Saint Tahana than met the eye.

‘Your boy is as tough as Jake, but those two pups are a few years away from the submission they’re going for. You, my lady, will have fun watching it unfold.’

With that, Saint strolled away.

Cece was caught between jags of laughter and a wave of emotion as she witnessed Mason’s play with the man lighting up her world and that of her son.

She turned away to wipe tears from her eyes.

Her body flamed as Ash’s arms wrapped around her from behind. Her man had a way of lighting her up from inside with a single touch.

‘Doing good, baby?’

She turned to face him. ‘I’m awesome.’

‘That you are.’

‘You OK after getting smashed by the boys?’

‘Hey! I won. The silver-back once again dominated the arena.’

‘Your feats of strength enthralled me. Even better, without getting any grass stains on your ass. Mind-blowing, Falconer. Where are the boys now?’

Ash grinned in triumph. ‘Gone to find easier targets. Met everyone?’

‘Most of them. Even Kamila who’s shared some hairy commando stories. She’s badass.’

Ash nodded as he pulled Cece even closer. ‘She put together most of Slade’s rescue. She worked to the bone to plan the logistics, the mapping, the whole shebang. She deserves a medal, no doubt.’

While Cece hadn’t met Slade yet, she’d heard enough about how much he commanded the respect and love of his mates.

Ash venerated the man who’d survived years of torture and mistreatment as a hostage and pawn for rebel terrorist groups.

‘I’m so happy for you all. Bringing him home must feel amazing. That took courage, baby,’ she said.

Ash smiled, yet his expression held a tinge of sadness. ‘Slade is worth it. He’s one of the finest men you’ll ever know. And to have survived over twelve years in the wild and still be as sharp as ever is beyond me.’

‘I can’t wait to meet him.’

‘You will when he’s ready. He’s being very picky with who sees him. Most times, it’s Kamila, which makes sense, given she was his closest friend for years before he got captured. In fact, she’s flying out in two hours back to him. Where she feels she belongs.’

Cece spotted Reg in the distance, wandering solo along the edge of the beach with a beer in his hand.

Cece suspected Gil’s passing was why the man was more sombre and stern than usual.

Ash caught her gaze. ‘Reg was close to Gil, as he is to all his mentees. He’s grieving.’

‘No doubt,’ Cece said. ‘Losing someone he cared for to drugs and greed must be difficult for him to process.’

‘I’ll have to live with the fact I was responsible for his passing,’ Ash murmured.

‘You did what you had to, baby,’ Cece said, stroking her man’s cheek. ‘Defence thought the same and cleared you for your actions that day.’

‘Still doesn’t take the sting away.’

‘I know.’

Ash’s rasp was gruff, tinged with sadness. ‘Damn Gil. A waste of young life with so much potential.’

Cece wrapped her arm around his waist. ‘You did your best for him, but he made his choice. There’s nothing more you could have done.’

The young man’s funeral was slated for the following Saturday in Orange, the town in country New South Wales, where he’d been born. Ash and Reg would be in attendance, along with a good contingent of the Sovereign team.

Ash sighed into her hair. ‘I hope the storm’s now over, babe.’

‘I hope so, too. Meantime, let’s celebrate the wins so far.’

As if reading minds, Rich appeared, a small dinner gong in hand, which he tapped to announce the meal was ready.

‘Mum, we’re starving!’

Cece turned, laughing, as Mason and Jake barrelled past. ‘You two had better find a seat if you want to eat.’

The boys yelped back in excitement before skittering to their places.

Soon, everyone sat down, and the tables were jam-packed.

The entire Sovereign crew took out three expansive tables in a private corner of The Eatery. They overflowed with laughter, conversation and sharing, the buzz a sign that it’d be a night to remember.

The banquet began with Ash making a toast, thanking his friends for banding together and returning their once-lost mate to the fold.

They all raised their glasses to Slade and fell into an impromptu minute of silence. In remembrance of all the suffering he’d had to endure and how he’d dealt like a champ.

The conversation picked up as servers wheeled out the starters. Prepared by Rich, each course celebrated his farm-to-table aesthetic.

The first course was grass-fed beef tartare alongside locally made bacon and a spicy scotch quail egg. Accompanied by pancetta and soba salad with tomato and avocado.

The main course featured a steak with sides of sauteed mushrooms and lamb’s belly with braised fennel. The lamb racks had been cooked in a hot wood-fired oven and served with chorizo and green pea risotto.

Rich’s apricot and tamarillo chutney balanced out the richness of the lamb.

The last course was dessert, accompanied by a chamomile and honey crème brulée. Alongside was a chocolate cake infused with citrus, black pepper, and cinnamon, which Jake and Mason destroyed.

Ash’s distillery, Falcon By the Sea, supplied the wine and whisky. His legendary cocktails were made on demand at the bar, including The Al Capone, a whisky-based mix with pineapple, vanilla, and honey notes.

Last was a bourbon-based whisky cocktail called Moonshine. Developed by Diesel, it contained honey, calvados, and Jack Daniels.

As everyone ate and drank, Cece looked around at her friends, family, and boyfriend, not quite believing this was her portion.

She turned Ash and found him gazing at her like she was the only woman in the world.

He leaned over and whispered in her ear. ‘You’re a hundred million dollar treasure, baby, and I’ll give the world to ensure you’re always by my side for life.’

She shivered, her heart overflowing with emotion, and she was so glad he’d almost wrecked her. He still did every night in their bed, undoing her with his love.

‘You feel me?’ Ash whispered to her.

Beyond The Eatery’s glass doors, the waves beat a melody on the shore.

Above, the dusky sky melded into a symphony of stars. She could hear the party still going on around them as she lost herself in his gorgeous green eyes.

The world fell away.

‘I feel you,’ Cece told him, her heart filled with love. ‘With all of my being.’

They snuck in a quick kiss, then pulled apart to be social. Still, Ash wrapped his hand around her, his attentiveness leaving her cherished and loved.

Later, Cece and her newfound family returned to Ash’s house.

While Ash put the boys to bed, Liam and Cece sat downstairs reminiscing about the last few weeks.

‘What a great night. Sucks balls that so much suffering came before it.’

‘What sucks is that Joseph could have been successful in life without destroying lives,’ Cece said, pouring a nightcap for Liam.

‘He should have done what most ex-Army senior retirees did. Joined a board, wrote a book about his time in the military, or travelled around the globe with mum.’

Cece shook her head. ‘Instead, he got addicted to being a puppet master of hate, revenge and adrenaline. Pure evil.’

‘We were mere pawns in his game.’ Liam sounded morose, not quite over the sting of being used by his stepfather.

Cece had long moved on, caring not one iota for the man who tried to destroy her brother.

Liam stirred from his reverie. ‘What happens to mum now?’

Cece smiled as she took a sip of her wine and folded into a couch. ‘She’s talked to me about selling up in Double Bay and buying a property in Byron so she can be close to Mason and us.’

Liam nodded. ‘It’ll be so cool to have her live here and see my evolution into a farm boy. She’ll never believe it.’

He’d decided to stay on with the Falconers, accepting the role of farm apprentice.

The few weeks he’d worked on the land had done him good. He’d put on weight, his cheeks filled out, and his muscle mass returned. Revealing handsome features underneath the beard that he now sported.

Cece smirked at him. ‘Can’t wrap my head around it myself. From drug pimp to farm hand. I sense a book in there somewhere.’

Liam laughed as Ash descended the stairs after putting the kids to bed.

Cece reached a hand out to her man. ‘They down?’

He leaned over and kissed Cece. ‘Never seen them blackout so fast.’

‘It’s been quite the day.’

‘Fuck, it’s been a major year.’ Ash groaned, flopping beside her and twisting to place his head on Cece’s lap.

‘Where we at with Joseph?’ Liam asked drily.

Ash flicked his eyes to him. ‘I spoke with Senior Inspector Kitt yesterday. Once he’s released from the military hospital, he’ll be charged for his part to play in organised crime. For conspiracy to import vast amounts of kilos of cocaine from the Middle East to Australia and for treason and betraying his men all those many years ago.’

Liam whistled under his breath. ‘Damn, that’s cold.’

Cece pursed her lips. ‘It’s what he deserves. How long will he go away for?’ she asked, trailing her hands through Ash’s hair.

‘Between the evidence derived from your recordings, Liam, our wiretaps and Slade’s witness accounts, ADFIS RCMP could slap him with up to 35 years. That’s what Kitt is recommending. He may get some reprieve if he spills the beans on the leaders of Czech mafia families and the shootings and havoc throughout the East Coast in their drug wars. All eyes are now on their kingpin, Dmitri Kirov.’

‘Who he is he?’ Cece asked.

Ash shifted so he could see her better. ‘The mastermind behind the Red Adder gang. No one knows where he lives. Some think it’s on a yacht that moves freely between all oceans. His nephew Radian Kirov, who lives in Sydney, is suspected to be his local gendarme. We believe he was liaising with Joseph, calling the shots on killing rival gang leaders and extorting protection money from small business owners.’

Liam’s lips twisted.‘I know Radian. He’s a nasty mofo. He and Joseph were working together. I can testify to it all.’

Ash jerked his chin. ‘You may have to, brother. Your testimony is money. Radian’s brother Marko was the handler we nabbed along with Joseph. He’s chosen not to say a word but give it time; he’ll soon be singing if he wants to live under protective custody.’

‘So, is your Defence contract over now?’ Liam asked.

Ash shook his head. ‘In fact, they’ve increased the scope. We’re now chasing down the cartel down across the globe. With any luck, we’ll track Dmitri, and the Red Adder era of dominance will end.’

Cece nodded. ‘I think we all want that.’

The trio fell into silence. Outside, the sky filled with stars, welcoming the sliver of the moon peeking over the horizon.

The heat from the day finally released into the night, returning the scent of the sea and the forest to the hinterland.

Gazing over the view, Cece’s heart swelled with the hope of creating a new future with Ash and their boys.

Forget Joseph, forget her past, forget her disappointments. The freedom and joy she felt in this moment were all that mattered now.

He proposed one early morning during their weekly coastal walk.

The ritual was one they’d come to cherish. As they discovered how much they both loved immersing themselves in the tranquil beauty of Byron Bay’s coastal trails.

Cece was gazing at yet another breathtaking viewpoint, soaking in the calmness and tranquillity, when Ash fake-coughed to attract her attention.

Turning around, she found him on one knee, an open jewel box in his hand and a gentle smile.

She’d met his jade gaze with her tear-filled hazel one. ‘Oh.’

‘Cece,’ his already gruff voice cracking even more. ‘You came into my world and wrecked it, babe. All the sleepless nights, all the heartbreak, all the darkness and pain I went through led me to you. But I know if I’d not gone through it, I’d have never found a love like you. My world is brighter now, and I want to share it always with you. If you’ll have me.’

She tried but failed to wipe the tears streaming down her face. ‘Yes! I do! I will!’

She fell into his arms, and their lips melded as he placed the simple diamond tear-shaped ring on her finger.

Ash caressed her face, his molten eyes glittering down at her. ‘Baby, with this rock on your hand, I’ll give you the world. That’s my sacred promise.’

Cece gave him her soul, letting it shine through her gold and hazel eyes. ‘This time, for both of us, it will last forever. I know it.’

As they kissed, the mesmerising sounds of crashing waves and the gentle rustle of palm trees provided an enchanting symphony; their skin caressed by the gentle sea breeze that carried love, freedom and release.

Ash and Cece formalised their partnership six months later.

They wanted a small wedding - a simple celebration of their love for each other, the ocean and their loved ones.

Cece suggested Falcon House for the wedding to Ash one morning over breakfast. ‘It’s the one place that has welcomed Mace and me and brought so much healing.’

Ash nodded as he poured milk into their sons’ cereal bowls. ‘Having the wedding at Falcon House is a given, babe. Do whatever you like for the day. The place will be all yours.’

She sighed with happiness. ‘We couldn’t have picked a more perfect venue if we tried. Plus, this way, we get to include everyone we love at the hotel and family and friends.’

As Falcon House’s events director, Cece was more than up to the task of organising each element of the day herself.

Her approach to planning was practical and organised. She made decisions fast, spending her evenings after school pick-ups updating budgets, booking travel for their far-flung friends and negotiating with suppliers.

Cece set forth designing a celebration weekend focused on fun and well-being.

Guests would have access to the spa and the Eatery’s best meals. Yoga by the sea, early morning runs and group walks were added to the itinerary - with opt-out options included for those who preferred to sleep in.

For the wedding itself, Cece envisioned a sit-down event in a tent that could hold 120 guests. The concept was for a ceremony by the water and a colour palette inspired by nature.

Perched on the edge of the gardens facing the beach, the luminous tent would be bathed with natural light.

She added white flowing curtains for romance, giving glimpses of the delightful gardens, swimming pool and golden sands beyond.

The news that their boss was marrying their new favourite colleague delighted Rachel, Brad and Denise.

They stepped in to ensure everything would run without incident, from the ceremony to cocktails to the food and wine service at the reception.

Rich, now over his crush on Cece, offered to create a banquet-worthy menu based on his kitchen’s core tenets of simplicity, flavour and sustainability.

The one thing Ash stood firm on overseeing himself was the music.

He managed to land ‘Brass Nirvana’, one of Australia’s leading brass bands, to serenade the guests on arrival.

Made up of a few of his ex-military colleagues, it was an ensemble of fifteen of the country’s best cornet and percussion players with a vast repertoire, from classics to the latest hits.

He commissioned them to perform before the ceremony and during the bridal walk song. And for some light music for the signing of the register and as the couple exited the venue.

Selecting the wedding dress was exciting for Cece, who flew to Sydney to pick her dress. She went straight to designer Moira Hughes’ studio and picked three dresses. Two weeks later, she returned and made a completely different choice.

‘I just fell in love with the third one,’ she told Rachel over lunch one day. The woman had become a good friend, and Cece enjoyed brainstorming wedding ideas with her. ‘Even better, they’re rushing it to me in less than a month. Record time! I’m so glad it worked out because I loved it, and it’s perfect for my beach wedding.’

She picked the Byron dress design, named not after her new hometown but after the leader of the Romantic Movement, Lord Byron, who’d influenced the opulent femininity of the gown.

Translucent layers of silk created the perfect trestle for the French 3D lace to reach and grow from the tip of her heels to the peak of the gown. The branches had been specially designed to wrap around the body, highlighting the silhouette, while the corset’s design was sculpted from beneath.

It was what she’d always dreamed of.

On the morning of the wedding, the weather was on point, with sunshine bathing the lawns and gardens in a golden glow.

Cece stared at her reflection in the mirror at her Falcon House cottage as her mother helped her slip into her dress. ‘It’s all so surreal.’

Samantha hugged her. ‘This is exactly how brides should feel, my darling: pampered, loved, on top of the world.’

Cece kept her jewellery pieces simple and befitting the al fresco theme. She wore a classic diamond necklace, bracelet, drop diamond, and pearl earrings belonging to her grandmother.

For beauty, she worked with a sun-kissed look and kept her hair down to ensure it was as natural as possible. ‘Less is always more.’

She smiled at Samantha, who looked radiant, fresh off a trip to Europe she’d ventured on alone.

It’d been her gift to herself, in reward for all the hard times she’d endured with Joseph. She’d had a ball, traipsing through a gastronomic adventure of Italy, Spain and France. She’d met solo travellers like herself and made friends for life.

At the same time, she’d indulged in out-of-this-world food experiences and drank the most heavenly of wines.

She’d returned refreshed and renewed, looking forward to an active life as a single and now empowered older woman.

This, she shared with her daughter. ‘I know less is more dear. My life is so much more without your meddling stepfather.’

Cece laughed. ‘That’s an understatement.’

‘Enough about me.’ Samantha laughed as she zipped up her daughter. ‘It’s your day, honey, so let’s get those stunning shoes on.’

‘With pleasure.’

Cece slid into her Identità pointed-toe, slingback décolleté stiletto heel in satin studded with crystals. She gasped at how gorgeous they looked on her feet. ‘Divine.’

The ceremony started just after 4 p.m., the service taking place under a jaw-dropping bower.

Made of garden and spray roses, Geraldton wax blooms, everlasting daisies, banksias and king proteas. Also interwoven were hanging amaranthus, flannel flowers and waratahs.

Guests sat amongst flower-draped garden chairs arranged in a circle around it.

As the brass band played, leading the charge were two grinning, cheeky, boyish ring bearers who strutted in casual cream made-to-measure suits by Sydney tailor Brent Wilson.

Ash followed his sons down the aisle, flanked by Cole and Slade in a wheelchair, also clad in Brent Wilson.

Then came Rose and Kit, the pair beaming at their firstborn son’s happiness.

Silence fell as everyone sat up in anticipation.

The brass band launched into the evocative ‘Rise’ arrangement by Stijn Aertgeerts, signalling the bride’s arrival.

A collective gasp rose from the guests as Cece appeared at the steps of the Conservatory under a magnificent flower arch.

She clutched a wild native bouquet woven with white and cream proteas, quicksand roses, soft green eucalyptus, and succulent features.

An elegantly dressed Liam and Samantha, resplendent in a gold and peach gown, flanked her.

Liam gave Cece a squeeze on her arm. ‘Ready?’

‘As I’ll ever be. Thank you both for being here.’ Cece’s whisper overflowed with emotion. ‘For supporting me. I couldn’t have done it without you.’

Samantha smiled at her daughter. ‘We’re so proud of you. You’re such a beautiful bride, Cece.’

Liam nudged her. ‘Now go get your man!’

Cece stepped forward, feeling more beautiful than she’d ever done and in awe of this moment. It showed on her glowing face as she walked between her brother and mother as they escorted her to her groom.

He turned to face them as they drew close.

On setting his eyes on Cece, Ash clapped his hand over his heart with such drama that it set the wedding party off into hysterics.

Yet his face softened when she stood by his side. He gazed down at her with such love that tears pricked her eyes.

‘Beauty babe. How can one man be so lucky?’

‘I love you too, Falconer.’

They slipped into a world of their own for a moment. Only breaking their gaze when Saint coughed and led them in an emotion-charged and moving ceremony.

The couple exchanged personal vows and ethically made wedding bands by Temple and Grace.

The present company hooted and whistled as the couple, now Mr and Mrs Falconer, sealed their promises with a heated kiss.

The group headed for cocktails by the beach, where the lush landscape of the Falcon House provided an enchanting backdrop for photographs.

As their photographer captured their post-wedding joy on the beach, and brass concerto notes floated in the air, Ash gazed into Cece’s eyes. ‘This, baby, is, hands down, one of the best days of my life. The only other when Jake was born.’

She smiled up at him. ‘Is it sinking in yet?’

Ash shook his head in wonder, his eyes twinkling. ‘Never, it feels like I’m dreaming.’

He kissed her then, not caring who saw or was around.

Cece blushed, her head spinning as his arms closed around her.

‘I love you.’

She reached up to hold him close, her mind, body and soul humming. ‘I love you too.’

While the Falcon House crew set up the tent for the reception, they mingled with friends under the rattan-woven fans, keeping guests cool.

The brass ensemble provided background music during the afternoon drinks reception.

Twilight fell on the tented reception, setting every surface aglow with golden light.

The reception began with Cole and Kris giving the groom’s toasts, which had everyone in stitches as they shared stories from Ash’s younger and wilder days.

Slade also spoke, his words more solemn and thought-provoking. He had the room in floods of tears as he shared how much he cherished the sacrifice of his friends, Ash and Kamila especially, in rescuing him.

The atmosphere was electric, laced with laughter and joy.

Together, Ash, Cece and Rich had designed a light summer menu.

The artful light fare in sizeable sharing platters captured their favourites, from sesame bread butter bites to burrata cheese, aromatic and spice-laden salads, fresh barbecue fish, and thick Wagyu steaks.

There were trays of lamb perfumed with ginger, cumin, and cloves served alongside roasted beetroot and garlic in saffron-and-orange-scented yoghurt, grilled asparagus and courgettes in garlic butter and palette cleansing lemons in olive oil.

Fresh bread was served with baba ghanouj, sprinkled with pomegranate seeds, feta and copious amounts of za’atar. As well as fragrant rice packed with shallots, garlic, fresh coriander leaves and saffron.

For a bold statement, Cece and Ash chose a pavlova wedding cake layered with mangoes, apricots, lychees, berries and cream. Perched on a detailed stand, Rich had arranged multiple mini pavs around the dessert table as delectable small treats.

The food was paired with the best regional small-format wines and Falcon By The Sea’s signature multi-layered single malt whisky with the aromas of fruit and Australian native berries, served on the rocks.

The first dance was to their favourite track, ‘Magic’. Cece fought tears as Ash lifted her into his arms, swaying together.

After that, followed more dancing, more toasts.

Their DJ got on stage and got people to sing and dance between live brass sets.

Later, the couple cut the towering pavlova dream cake, which was devoured in minutes.

Cece hit the dance floor in a dazzling two-piece, a bejewelled white silk cami. She matched it with flowing draped pants that balanced romance with prep.

Later in the night, they served ice cream cones and grilled cheese toasties with pickles that Jake and Mason gulped down in the dozens.

The couple danced with their two sons for the night’s last song.

Both boys clutched onto their parents, unwilling to let them go.

Jake’s mouth trembled. ‘We’ll miss you both.’

Mason was more stoic. ‘I know newlyweds need a honeymoon, but you must call us.’

Cece kissed the top of his head. ‘Every day. Promise.’

Ash reassured them with a hug, his voice strong and steady above the pulsing music. ‘We’ll be back in two weeks. It’ll go so fast. Rose and Kit have a gazillion fun things planned for you guys. You won’t even miss us.’

The night ended with much fanfare, handfuls of rice and showers of petals.

The newlyweds jumped into Ash’s truck, which the Sovereign team had plastered in ribbons and garlands of flowers.

They drove off, leaving behind their wistful family, friends and guests. Who trailed back to the party, walking barefoot along the shoreline, listening to the waves break under a moonlit sky.

Ash’s Landcruiser growled onto the sand at Sovereign Beach.

The wheels crunched over the dunes as they tracked past the Observatory towards the far end of the secluded shoreline.

He stopped, turning off the engine so they were enveloped in darkness.

Above, a bank of clouds had rolled in, obscuring the moon’s pale light.

Cece could just make out Ash’s profile, and she gave him a crooked smile. ‘We’re honeymooning here, babe?’

‘Not quite.’

He touched a button, and the car’s intense LED light bars beamed on. They lit a long, dark jetty that jutted out to sea, disappearing into blackness.

One Cece had not encountered on their previous visit.

‘Intriguing.’

Ash shot her an enigmatic look before flashing the LEDs on and off twice more.

He slid from the truck as the shadows fell around them once more.

‘For real babe, where are we going?’

Ash ignored Cece, rounding the bonnet. He opened her door and put out his hands.

‘Hop up. I’ll carry you.’

Incredulous, she let him pick up her.

He used a booted foot to slam shut the passenger door.

Then he was moving. With her in his arms, tracking over the sand toward the dim pier.

Cece’s night sight kicked in, and she made out the waves crashing to shore. She wrapped her arms around his neck. ‘This is one very mysterious threshold.’

‘You haven’t seen anything yet.’

‘Our bags?’

She’d packed two suitcases with palm trees and the sun in mind, the only hint from Ash of their destination.

‘They’ve gone ahead.’

‘Where to?’

He didn’t answer, carrying her like she weighed nothing in his arms.

The waves rocked the dark supports until he got to the end of the jetty, placing her down on her feet.

She gave him a pointed look. ‘You’re a fount of secrets, honey. This gets more curious by the second.’

He only grunted as she wrapped her hands around his waist.

Not a minute went by when she heard a rumble.

Powerful, throbbing, cutting through the waves.

Like a spectre from the abyss came a silhouette. Moving towards them in darkness, its enormous shape blacking out the starry sky.

A single bulb pulsed from high above it as a warning to low-flying craft.

Reverse thrusters kicked in, and water churned as the massive yacht moved with precision to the edge of the jetty.

Lights turned on within the vessel, revealing an arrow-shaped aerodynamic design.

Unbelieving, Cece allowed Ash to lead her to the automated landing platform extending from the rear of the sleek mega-machine.

A man stepped down to the stern.

Tall, muscled, broad-shouldered, dark skin almost sable.

She’d never seen him before, and her eyes watered at his drop-dead model features.

He gave her a nod, face solemn and closed off.

His dark eyes tracked to Ash. ‘Sir, welcome onboard the Sabre.’

‘Appreciate the pick-up, Kellan.’

Cece was speechless as both men stretched their hands. To help her step to the guide rails and up the steps to the main deck.

Where a pool lit from within sat inlaid into the deck floor.

Further, glass doors led to a sumptuous onboard living space where more luxury awaited her.

Cece gasped at an interior decorated in earth tones with black walls and glass accents, the latest in high-end décor.

The furniture was white, grey and black, as modern as it got. Yet it was welcoming, warmed by exquisite rugs and colourful, striking art on the walls.

Kellan stepped to the top of the rails. ‘I’ll leave you both to it. If you need anything, call. The crew and I will try our best to be invisible. We’ll have meals prepped and set out for you and keep cleaning to the early mornings. Most times, you won’t know we’re here. Enjoy your honeymoon.’

He disappeared just as silently as he’d come.

Cece turned to nail Ash with a stunned look. ‘Where am I? What is this dream I’m in?’

He smiled, triumph in his eyes. ‘Shocked much?’

‘Beyond. Who’s freakin’ badass yacht is this?’

‘Sovereign’s,’ her husband said with nonchalance as he strolled toward the bar.

Cece jolted. ‘Why? How? I need to know more. Now.’

Ash poured them drinks from the crystal-walled bar, then tracked back to her, handing her a glass of champagne.

‘It’s a surveillance ship masquerading as a luxury yacht. It’s where we wine, dine and keep an eye on Australia’s wealthiest crims. It includes a helipad, pool, and multiple sunning decks. Everything we need to keep up the facade. From time to time, we use it for personal travel.’

‘I’ve no words.’

‘You like?’

‘I love!’

Ash grinned, pleased with himself, sipping on his whisky. ‘Under the hood, she boasts four engines, capable of revving up to an impressive 23,172 horsepower. The hull is reinforced steel, and the superstructure is sleek black aluminium. Cruising speed is around 20 knots, with a top speed of 28.’

‘You’re geeking again, baby.’

He grinned. ‘Can’t help it.’

‘So this is a workhorse dressed up as a Black Friesian?’

‘In a manner of speaking. It lets us patrol the coast, and it can travel internationally. It has a helipad, and it’s well-armed. We used it as a jump point into Somalia for Slade’s rescue.’

‘Impressive.’

She lowered her voice. ‘And Kellan? The Adonis who let us onboard. What does he do?’

‘He captains the ship. He’s Kamila’s brother, in case you can’t tell. However, he wasn’t in my squad. He served a few years later, still in the SAS.’

‘I see the resemblance now. He’s an ex-commando, too?’

Ash nodded. ‘He works with a crew of two: Tommy, our onboard chef and Digger, the ship’s maintenance engineer. All ex-soldiers who can defend the ship if need be.’

Cece folded herself onto a couch and tucked her feet under her, sipping from her glass. ‘And for last time, my love. Where is the Sabre taking us?’

‘To an island getaway, babe. Somewhere solitary. We’ve got food, fuel to last us for days and grog to keep us love-drunk all day and all night. On that note, bottoms up.’

She protested. ‘You can’t rush champagne.’

He gave her a heated look, and she hurried to down her glass.

Ash stalked to her and put out his hand.

He levered her up and lifted her into his arms.

She protested. ‘Ash.’

‘Ssh.’

He swept past six guest cabins that could accommodate up to 12 guests and into the sumptuous primary cabin.

The door slow-closed behind them as he lay her on the king-size bed.

Standing back up, he stripped off his clothes.

Her mouth watered at the sight of his tanned broad shoulders, the rippling chest, his narrow hips and her prize, his proud pulsing cock.

His knee sunk into the mattress beside her as he removed her clothes and kissed her all over.

He levered himself above her as they both lay naked, his hips ready to thrust between hers.

‘Ash.’ She placed a hand on his chest to stay him.

Confusion creased his heated gaze. ‘What, baby?’ His voice was thick with need.

‘I’ve something to tell you.’

‘Yes?’ He brushed his lips against her throat. While one of his legs pressed between her thighs, urgent and impatient to get on with loving her.

‘I just worked it out after two months -’ His teeth grazed her throat. ‘And I take full responsibility for not reminding you in Sydney -’

‘About what?’ He was busy planting kisses along her tits and sucking at their swollen tips.

Cece grasped Ash’s head and made him look into her eyes. ‘Ash, I’m trying to say I’ve missed my period a few times.’

His body locked and went still, his brow arching high as he gaped down at her. ‘You serious?’

She took a shaky breath, her gaze filled with worry. ‘I’m late, really late.’

One of his hands moved to her face, his fingers trembling against her cheek. ‘Are you saying what I think you are? That you’re pregnant?’

His baritone was even more hoarse than ever.

‘Yes.’

Ash’s jade eyes widened, flooding with emotion. ‘We’re having a baby?’

She nodded.

He buried his head into her neck, in the one place he loved the most, overcome with feeling. ‘Cece, my gorgeous girl, my sweet queen —.’ He ran his hands over her, pressing kisses everywhere before stopping at her stomach. ‘Fuck. I must be the luckiest man alive. I have never been so much in love, baby.’

‘So you’re happy?’ Her heart raced, almost expecting him to say it was too soon.

A soft growl burst from him as he pinned her with a stern yet fond glare. ‘Are you kidding me? What did you expect me to be? I’m freakin’ over the moon, wifey.’

His chest rumbled as he stroked her with reverence, and she saw a sheen in his eyes. He pressed his lips on her tummy, then moved up, placing tender, sweet, heated kisses all over her skin.

‘Do you think it’s a little girl?’ he said, serving with her a jade-hued gaze filled with hope.

‘I think you want it to be.’

‘I do, with soft curls and freckles like her mama.’

‘And emerald eyes like her dad.’

He proceeded to kiss every freckle he could find, driving her wild with need.

When she couldn’t take it any more, he held her wrists above her head and slid into her.

He growled, his crackled voice reverbing through the stateroom. ‘Let me show just how happy I am, my sacred queen.’

She groaned as he pumped, pleasure building deep inside her, making breathing hard. Widening her legs with abandon, she welcomed him as far as she could go until they shook from release.

He took her with slow, deliberate loving, pausing almost between each thrust to give her long, exquisite kisses. His fingers entwined with hers while his lips devoured her.

His movements caused pleasure in rolling waves until her body moved in sync with his. Their lovemaking was even more explosive than the first time they’d met. More poignant, more touching, more pure, more free.

He reached down and pinned her hips against the bed. She whimpered as he bottomed out each stroke, going deeper than he’d ever done before. She flamed out, her inner muscles spasming out of control.

His breath hitched as she reached her climax, the force of it pushing her body so hard against him that it almost lifted him off.

He moaned and drove himself deep inside her before allowing himself to feel the warmth of his release.

They came down their high with long, heartfelt kisses, murmurs and whispers.

A long time later, after Ash had fallen asleep, Cece untangled herself from his limbs and slid from the bed.

Pulling on a robe, she headed out to the wrap-around balcony of the yacht that was rapidly moving away from the coast.

She opened the sliding glass door and stepped out into the cool breeze.

Gazing out to the haze of a summer night at the lights of a receding coast, she breathed in.

Her hands cradled her tummy’s soft mound, and she leaned back against the glass, tears slipping down her cheeks.

She’d re-written the rules.

She’d reinvented herself in a new place.

She’d shed the pain and angst.

She’d found her truest love.

She’d found her deliverance.

Feeling free like light and air. Like a bird’s wings in the wind.

Finally, truly, fantastically wrecked with sacred love.

THE END OF ONE BEAUTIFUL SOVEREIGN STORY

AND THE BEGINNING OF ANOTHER

The Sovereign Saga continues with Cole and Salma’s love story.

‘LOVE TO CRUSH YOU’

Cole Falconer is Sydney’s hottest bachelor …

The ex-military hero is also a handsome bar and venue entrepreneur, one of the city’s most attractive, sexy and successful publicans and billionaires to have taken the zeitgeist by storm.

He’s been photographed with international supermodels, actresses and beauties, each more gorgeous than the next.

Until one unprepossessing woman catches his sapphire gaze. Unrelenting and not used to being refused, he wants her, but she keeps him at arm’s length.

Salma Dan is a professional ex-surfer trying to heal her body and mind after a devastating setback.

She’s made a promise to herself. Never again to let her heart and soul be crushed to pieces … yet Cole keeps pulling her back into the power of his aura, the touch of his heat and the passion in his wildfire blue eyes.

He’s a force of nature that could calm the storm within her … only if she lets him in.

Set in the stunning and glamorous eastern suburbs’ beach escapes of Sydney’s Bondi and Tamarama, ‘Love to Crush You’ is a spicy, addictive billionaire romance. It is recommended for mature readers only.

Pre-Order ‘Love To Crush You’ on Amazon Kindle

(and on Kindle Unlimited)