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“I’ll be happy when Garibaldi is dead.” I smile, but it’s tinged with sadness.
As we resume our walk, hand in hand, I realize that my greatest flaw isn’t the violence or the control; it’s the fear of vulnerability. But with Jane by my side, I’m learning that it’s okay to be vulnerable, to need someone else.
Soon, the reality of my life will demand attention. But today, in the heart of France, amidst the echoes of medieval times, I’m reminded of the strength of our bond, a force that no darkness can dim.
Today, we live in the light, and I swear to fight with everything I have to keep this light burning bright.
Jane’s POV
Five days later…
As I sip my morning coffee, the steam swirling up in gentle curls, I can’t help but get lost in the view from our villa window.
The garden below is dappled with the early light, each dewdrop sparkling like a tiny jewel. Somewhere out there, Xavier is jogging, far too early for my liking.
The serene moment is cut short by the buzz of my phone. It feels like an intruder, dragging my thoughts back to a reality I’ve been trying to avoid.
Leaning against the cool marble of the kitchen counter, I press the phone to my ear, the familiar sound of Emma’s voice a welcome intrusion into the quiet morning.
“How’s it going, blushing bride?” she asks. “He given you something new, blue, and ideally battery powered?”
“Maybe,” I reply. “But a married woman never tells.”
“So he’s taken you down the Louvre and up the Notre Dame? Is that it?”
I can’t help but giggle. “You know just how to word things, don’t you? How’s it going back there?”
“Tony’s concerned. That’s why I’m ringing. Your father’s been seen with Garibaldi.”
The smile on my face vanishes in an instant. “What? Why?”
“We’re not sure but if he calls you, be sure to let Xavier know. Tony thinks he’s up to something. We just don’t know what.”
My shoulders slump as if he’s right next to me. All the strength I had vanishes in an instant as I mutter, “I thought he was gone for good.”
“I’m sure it’ll be fine. Just thought you’d want to know. Tony’s told Xavier already.”
I stand up straight. “Wait, Xavier already knows? Why hasn’t he told me?”
“I’m guessing he doesn’t want to worry you.”
“Or he thinks I can’t handle myself.”
Her voice is soft but firm. “Jane, you are strong. You always have been.”
I smile, tears pricking at the corners of my eyes. “I don’t want to be a pawn in my dad’s games or in anyone else’s. I want to make my own choices, chase my own dreams.”
“Like your mom did?” Emma probes gently.
“Exactly. She had this fire, this passion for life. I want that, too. I want to find my own courage, not just rely on Xavier’s.”
Emma’s laugh is a balm to my soul. “I think you’re doing just that already. You’ve got this. And remember, you’ve got me, too. Tony’s been great, but I miss you like crazy.”
A laugh escapes me, lightening my heart. “I miss you, too. And when I get back, we’re going to have so much to catch up on.”
“Mrs. Henderson’s out of hospital. I went around to see her. She’s doing good.”
“That’s great. Send her my love.” There’s a beep from my phone. “Hang on, I’ve got another call coming through. Oh, shit. It’s my dad.”
“Fuck. You better answer. He might let slip what Garibaldi’s got planned. Could give us the upper hand. Keep calm, let him talk.”
A knot forms in my stomach, the sudden intrusion of my old life into this serene new world we’ve built feels ominous. Reluctantly, I answer, pressing the phone to my ear.” Dad,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady as I watch a couple of sparrows dart playfully in the garden. “How are you?”
“Jane, my darling,” my father’s voice comes through, a mix of warmth and something darker I can’t quite place. “I’ve been so worried about you. Has he hurt you?”
“Why are you calling me darling?”
“When I heard about what happened at the house, I went to see a friend of mine. I can’t believe Xavier Rossi attacked you.”
“He didn’t attack me.”
“His men then. It amounts to the same thing. You sure you’re okay?”
“What do you mean, his men? They were debt collectors who wanted you.” My attempt at keeping calm slips away. “I can’t believe you left me to face them alone. How could you do that to me?”
There’s a pause, and when he speaks again, his voice is lower, laced with a seriousness that sends a chill down my spine. “Jane, I need you to listen to me very carefully,” he says, and I can almost picture him, leaning in, eyes darting around as if to ensure no one else can hear. “That man you’ve married, Xavier… he’s not who you think he is.”