Chapter 19 - Scars and Healing
The penthouse was quiet, save for the soft patter of rain against the new, bulletproof glass windows.
Clara sat on the edge of the marble bathtub, holding a warm washcloth against Julian’s bruised ribs.
He was covered in minor cuts and deep purple bruises, but he refused to go to a hospital until he knew Clara was safe at home.
“I’m sorry,” Julian whispered, his head bowed.
“For what?” Clara asked gently, rinsing the cloth in the warm water.
“For breaking my promise. For letting the darkness touch you again.”
He looked up at her, his stormy blue eyes filled with shame.
“When I saw your ring on the floor, I didn't care about the foundation. I didn't care about being a good man. I was ready to slaughter everyone in that yard.”
Clara set the washcloth aside and reached out, cupping his bruised face in her small hands.
“Julian, you came for me. You saved me.”
“I almost lost myself, Clara. I almost killed him.”
“But you didn't,” she reminded him fiercely. “You stopped. You heard my voice, and you stopped. That is the difference between a monster and a man.”
She leaned forward, pressing her forehead against his.
“I love all of you, Julian. The philanthropist and the protector. You kept me safe.”
Julian closed his eyes, a stray tear escaping and tracking down his cheek.
He wrapped his strong arms around her waist, pulling her onto his lap right there in the bathroom.
“I don't deserve you,” he murmured against her lips.
“You don't get to decide that,” Clara smiled, kissing him softly.
“Alexei is gone. His men are in federal custody. The Volkov name is finally dead.”
Julian opened his eyes, the heavy burden he had carried for years finally lifting from his shoulders.
“It is finally over,” Julian agreed.
He reached into his pocket, pulling out the diamond engagement ring he had rescued from the debris.
He gently slid it back onto her left hand.
May you like
“No more running,” he promised. “No more shadows.”
“Just us,” Clara agreed, resting her head against his heart.
