Page 24 of Forbidden Love
I recall his eyes, filled with vulnerability and the fear of losing me. He wasn’t just protecting himself. He sacrificed his freedom of identity to protect his family.
I take a long breath, steadying the unease. I can’t ignore the danger. Devin’s ties to the mafia puts us at risk. But I also can’t ignore the way my heart races every time I’m with him. This won’t be easy because loving him means accepting everything that comes with him—the past, the secrets, the danger.
I stand up, decision made. I need to see him again. We’ll talk face to face, and figure out where to go from here.
When I arrive at the location, I spot Devin right away. He’s standing with the crew, talking to them with a seriousness that catches me off guard. I stay back, observing him from a distance.
“I have something important to announce.” Devin’s voice carries over the sound of the construction, commanding attention. “As of today, we’re changing The Oasis project. We’re going to align this development with sustainable practices, focusing on environmental impact and responsible resource management.”
A warmth spreads through me. With all that has transpired over the past few days, I’d nearly forgotten my mission and the reason I’d met Devin. But he’s doing it—making the hotel project more sustainable—for the city, for the planet, and for me. He’s making an explicit statement to the world that he’s willing to change—to do better.
As the meeting wraps up, he glances around and searches for something, or someone.
Before I overthink it, I walk toward him, my heart pounding in my ears.
When he finally sees me, a glow spreads across his angular features. “Maya.”
“I heard what you said. You’re really doing it.”
He nods, stepping closer. “This project—it’s more than a job to me. It’s an opportunity to rectify things. For you and for us.”
My heart swells with emotion, but a lingering fear nags at me. “And what about the mafia? What happens if they find out?”
His eyes darken slightly, but he doesn’t look away. “They know where to find me. I won’t live in fear anymore. It was an accident, and I won’t keep running.”
A long pause fills the air, the construction noise fading away. He’s sincere and truthful, but there’s something else that makes my heart race.
“Why now, Devin?”
His head slants to the side. “What?”
“What made you decide to stop hiding now?”
“You.” His voice is raw with emotion. “You’ve changed my perspective and made me want to be a better person. This isn’t just about the project. It’s about showing you I’m serious, that I’m willing to fight for a life with you.”
Tears well in my eyes, but they symbolize hope. “I’m still angry. And hurt. But I understand why you did what you did.”
He nods. “It’s a start.”
We stand there in silence, a blanket of comfort finally wrapping around us.
“Maya, there’s something else I need to ask you.”
My heart pounds hard in my chest as I meet his gaze. “What is it?”
He takes a deep breath and swallows. “I realize I’ve hurt you, but I’m in love with you, Maya. I’ve never felt this way before about anyone, and I refuse to go another day without you.”
My breath catches in my throat, the intensity of his words hitting me like a tidal wave.
He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small velvet box. “I’ve held onto this for a week, waiting for the perfect time.” He opens it and reveals a stunning diamond ring. The gems catch the light, sparkling with the promise of forever. “Will you marry me?”
Everything else fades away—the danger, the fear, and the past. All I can see is him standing there, offering me his heart and his life. And I know what this means. I understand the risks and the challenges we’ll face. He’s linked to a dangerous world that could drown us both, but I love him, and I can’t fathom my life without him.
After indulging in the ring’s beauty, I study him. He’s putting everything on the line, trusting me with his darkest secrets and future. I’m ready to do the same.
“Yes, Devin.” A smile spreads across my face. “Yes, I’ll marry you.”
After rising, he pulls me into his arms and holds me close. I cling to him, relishing the strength of his embrace and the steady beat of his heart. I promise to stay by his side through all times, not just the good ones. It’s a promise to stand by him, whatever it takes, even if it means facing the dangers of his past.