Chapter 21

TWENTY-ONE

SIX YEARS AGO

The Day After Devin's 18th Birthday

I sit across from Devin's parents in their immaculate living room, my posture relaxed but my mind razor-sharp. Every detail of this conversation could impact my future with Devin, and I refuse to leave anything to chance.

"Mr. and Mrs. West," I begin, my voice steady and confident, "I've come to discuss my intentions toward your daughter. I want to marry Devin."

Mrs. West's eyes widen slightly while Mr. West's gaze intensifies. "That's... quite a statement, Mr. Rivers," he says. "Devin is only eighteen."

I nod, acknowledging his concern. "I'm aware of the age difference. But I also know that Devin is exceptional in every way. She's not a typical eighteen-year-old."

Mrs. West smiles softly. "No, she certainly isn't. But, Hawk, we've always planned for Devin to study overseas. To expand her skills and experiences. We don't want anything to hold her back."

I feel a wave of possessiveness at the thought of Devin leaving, but I keep my expression neutral. "I understand completely. I have no intention of hindering Devin's growth or ambitions. In fact, I want to support them."

Mr. West raises an eyebrow. "How so?"

I lean forward, my gaze steady. "I'm willing to wait until Devin feels ready to be my wife. But I won't let her leave for college until we're legally married. It's non-negotiable."

I see a flash of surprise in their eyes, but I press on before they can object. "While she's overseas, she'll have my protection. I'll ensure she's always guarded, though discreetly. I'm also arranging for her to learn various forms of self-defense. She'll be a master of the martial arts."

Mrs. West nods slowly, considering my words. "That's... thoughtful. I know she's always been an easy target for other girls her age. Even in our family."

A small smile tugs at my lips. "I'm aware. That's why I've asked Olivia to work with her on being more self-assured and assertive. Olivia has a way of bringing out Devin's confidence."

Mr. West chuckles. "That she does. You've certainly given this a lot of thought, Hawk."

"Devin is worth every moment of consideration," I reply, my voice low and intense. "I want to give her the world, but I also want to ensure she's safe and prepared for whatever challenges she might face."

The Wests exchange a look, having one of those silent conversations that long-married couples seem to excel at. Finally, Mr. West turns back to me.

"We appreciate your thoroughness, Hawk. And your willingness to support Devin's dreams." He pauses, then nods. "You have our approval."

Relief washes over me, though I don't let it show on my face. Instead, I stand, extending my hand to Mr. West. "Thank you. I promise to always put Devin's well-being first."

As we shake hands, Mrs. West adds, "Devin's in her room if you'd like to speak with her now."

I nod, thanking them both before making my way upstairs. I've never been in Devin's room, and I find myself curious about this private space of hers.

The door is slightly ajar, and I push it open without knocking. The sight that greets me is far from a typical teenage girl's room. Instead of posters and frilly decorations, I'm met with a tech lair that would put most corporate IT departments to shame. Multiple monitors line the walls, cables snake across the floor, and the soft hum of powerful computers fills the air.

In the center of it all sits Devin, her fingers flying across a keyboard, her face illuminated by the glow of the screens. She's so engrossed in her work that she doesn't notice me at first.

I clear my throat, and she whirls around, her eyes wide with surprise. "Hawk? What are you doing here?"

I step into the room, closing the door behind me. My eyes never leave hers as I approach. "I came to see you, of course."

Devin's brow furrows. "But... how? My parents never let anyone up here, especially not..." She trails off, a blush creeping up her cheeks.

"Especially not men?" I finish for her, a smirk playing on my lips. "Let's just say I had an important conversation with your parents."

Her eyes narrow suspiciously. "What kind of conversation?"

I reach her chair, towering over her seated form. Slowly, deliberately, I place my hands on the armrests, caging her in. "The kind where I asked for their blessing to marry you."

Devin's breath catches, her eyes widening in shock. "You... what?"