Chapter 9 - THE KISS THAT CHANGED THE RULES
Adrian found me on the terrace after midnight.
I was wrapped in a blanket, staring at the dark water.
He approached slowly.
“May I sit?”
I nodded.
He sat beside me.
For several minutes, neither spoke.
Then I asked, “Why did you marry me?”
He looked toward the mountains.
“Your father offered a partnership.”
“That's not what I asked.”
Adrian was silent.
I turned toward him.
“Why did you agree?”
He took a breath.
“Because I believed marrying you would give me access to records that could expose what happened to your mother.”
I stared.
The honesty hurt.
“You used me.”
He closed his eyes.
“Yes.”
I looked away.
For a long time, neither spoke.
Then he said, “I was wrong.”
I laughed bitterly.
“That doesn't fix it.”
“No.”
He looked at me.
“I know.”
I swallowed.
“Then what do you want from me now?”
His expression changed.
“Nothing you don't choose to give.”
I studied him.
“That's new.”
He smiled sadly.
“Yes.”
The wind moved through the trees.
I looked toward the sea.
Then whispered, “I don't know whether I can trust you.”
Adrian nodded.
“You shouldn't have to decide tonight.”
I turned toward him.
His face was close.
For the first time, I saw the man beneath the reputation.
Tired.
Regretful.
Afraid.
I reached for his hand.
He looked down.
Then back at me.
“Lena.”
I leaned closer.
And kissed him.
It was brief.
Gentle.
Unexpected.
When I pulled away, Adrian stared.
I smiled faintly.
“That doesn't mean I forgive you.”
He nodded.
“I know.”
I stood.
“Good.”
May you like
Then I walked inside.
Leaving the most feared man in New York sitting speechless beneath the stars.
