Extended Epilogue

AVA

Eight Years Later

" T en years ago, I made a decision to be a better man," my husband begins, his voice amplified by the microphone in front of him. On stage in his black suit, he looks incredible. Powerful and proud and hot as hell. "You see, I met a girl who changed my world. I knew I wanted to change the world for her. And so, Corbyn Security was born."

I listen to his speech with keen interest as he talks about how far he and the company have come, the good they've done, the plans they have for the future. He thanks his clients, his employees—with special mentions to Nick and Jace of course—and the people he's worked with from other companies and teams. I'm so proud, I have tears in my eyes by the time he's finishing up.

"I'd like to ask my beautiful wife, Ava, to join me on the stage," he says, and I rush to my feet as everyone claps.

It's the tenth anniversary of our company, and all our employees, some clients, and professional connections have joined us to celebrate. The party is huge, and the roar of cheering and applause is deafening as I make my way to the stage. My gold dress shimmers in the lights as I climb the steps and take Axel's hand. "I owe everything to this woman. So, Ava, I thank you for everything you have done for me. I am the man I am because you helped me to become him."

He turns us to face the audience, showing me off. I'm grinning so hard my face hurts.

"Please put your hands together to the inspiration and heart of this company—my stunning wife, Ava Corbyn," he says, and this time when everyone cheers, Axel wraps his arms around me and holds me tight. I tilt my head up, kissing him without care for the fact everyone's watching, and when we break away, I hear Nick wolf whistle from somewhere near the bar and burst out laughing.

"Now let's party!" I call out to more cheers, and Axel leads me back to our seats.

It's not often we have a night for just us, without our kids, but they're safe at home with a babysitter who went through the world's most detailed interview before Axel hired her. I love being a mother, but it's nice to get some time for just us two, too.

Axel and I clink our champagne glasses together in a cheer, and as the band starts up, I hop up and drag him to the dance floor.

"You look edible in this dress," he whispers in my ear as he spins me around in time to the music.

I flush, smiling up at him. "Then I hope you're hungry," I tease, wrapping my arms around his neck and swaying my hips. "We need to test out the hotel bed after this after all."

He groans, yanks me closer, and kisses me until I'm dizzy.

I never imagined life could be this good. Who would've thought getting given away by my horrible father to settle his debt would result in me marrying the man of my dreams and having the family I always wanted? Certainly not me.

But I wouldn't change a single thing.

The End.

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