Chapter 10 - The Horizon of Forever
Six months later.
The autumn wind whipped golden leaves across the manicured lawns of the Caldwell estate in Lake Forest, but inside the grand conservatory, the air was warm, sweet, and filled with laughter.
The massive glass windows overlooked the sparkling lake, reflecting the soft, golden light of a late afternoon sun.
Emily Parker—no, Emily Caldwell—sat on a velvet settee, a warm cup of tea resting in her hands as she laughed at something Nathan said.
She wasn't shaking anymore. The haunting shadows beneath her eyes were entirely gone, replaced by a radiant, glowing confidence that made her look more breathtaking than she had on her wedding day.
Nathan walked over, holding two crystal flutes filled with sparkling cider, and handed one to her before sitting down right beside her, pulling her close against his side.
"Penny for your thoughts, Mrs. Caldwell," Nathan murmured, pressing a soft kiss into her golden-brown hair.
Emily smiled, turning her head to look up at him. Her pale blue eyes shone with absolute contentment.
"I was just thinking about the first day we met," she said softly. "Standing at the altar in that cathedral. I thought I was walking into my final trap."
Nathan tightened his arm around her waist, pulling her flush against his chest. He looked down into her eyes, the cold, ruthless billionaire completely melted away by the warmth of her gaze.
"And now?" he asked, his voice low and tender.
Emily smiled, setting her glass down, sliding her arms around his neck, and resting her forehead against his.
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"Now," she whispered, "I realize I was walking right into my happily ever after."
Nathan smiled, pulling her in for a deep, lingering kiss as the golden sun dipped below the horizon, bathing their future in an endless, beautiful light.
