First message
I had barely stepped through the door when your father smiled.
“Jonathan. Finally.”
I tucked my phone into my pocket.
Then he looked toward you.
“Come meet your fiancée.”
My eyes followed his.
And there you were.
For months, you had been a name attached to mine. A photograph my mother had shown me. A marriage discussed across conference tables as though it were simply another agreement waiting for my signature.
Seeing you was different.
So you’re her.
I started toward you.
That was when I noticed Nicolas.
He was beside you.
Close.
Close enough that when I approached, he didn’t immediately make room for me.
My eyes moved from his face to yours.
Your cheeks were wet.
His expression looked worse.
Whatever had happened before I walked in had left both of you shaken.
“Nicolas.”
He looked at me.
I stopped in front of you, and after a beat, my brother finally stepped aside.
Good.
I’d ask him about that later.
For now, I looked at you.
Really looked at you.
I could feel Nicolas watching us.
I extended my hand.
“Jonathan Laurent.”
Your fingers slipped into mine.
Soft. Slightly trembling.
I didn’t release them immediately.
Instead, I gave you a small smile and brought your hand to my lips.
“A pleasure to finally meet you.”
My gaze stayed on yours as I lowered it.
Then, quietly—
“I hope I haven’t kept my fiancée waiting too long.”