Page 135 of Bid For Me
As we stand there, wrapped in each other, I can’t help but think about how far we’ve come. Life isn’t perfect – it’s messy, unpredictable, and sometimes downright chaotic. But with Seb by my side, I know we can handle whatever comes our way.
Because in the end, it’s not about perfection. It’s about love, trust, and the unshakable bond we’ve built together.
And as I glance over my shoulder one last time, catching Candy’s knowing grin from the hallway, I smile.
Life’s a beautiful mess, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Besides, I’ve got everything I need: a man who sees me, a life that excites me, and a best friend who never lets me forget it.
EPILOGUE
Elle
The soft humof the espresso machine fills the kitchen, mingling with the scent of freshly brewed coffee and French Toast. Sunlight streams through the large bay windows, painting golden streaks across the polished countertops. It’s a peaceful morning – one of those rare, perfect moments where the world feels balanced, as though everything has aligned just so.
I glance over my shoulder at Seb, who’s leaning casually against the counter, his hair still slightly damp from his morning shower. He’s scrolling through his tablet, a small frown tugging at his brow, and I can’t help but smile. Even in repose, he exudes that effortless command, a presence that’s both comforting and utterly intoxicating.
“Stop staring,” he says without looking up, his lips twitching with a knowing smirk.
“Why? Can’t a wife admire her ridiculously handsome husband in peace?”
Seb finally glances up, his gaze locking with mine. “Admire all you want, Mrs. Sterling-Knight. Just be prepared to deal with the consequences.”
A delicious shiver runs down my spine at the dark promise in his voice. “Is that supposed to be a threat?”
“It’s a guarantee,” he replies, setting the tablet aside and closing the distance between us in a few long strides.
His hands find my hips, pulling me against him as his mouth captures mine in a slow, consuming kiss. I melt into him, my fingers tangling in his hair as the world around us fades away. When we finally break apart, I’m breathless, my heart pounding in my chest.
“You taste like sugar,” he murmurs, his lips brushing against my temple.
“That’s because I’m so sweet,” I reply cheekily, earning a low chuckle from him.
“Smart mouth,” he mutters, his hands tightening on my waist. “I’ll have to do something about that later.”
The anticipation in his voice sends heat pooling in my belly, but before I can respond, the timer on the oven beeps, pulling us back to the present.
“Saved by the bell,” I tease, slipping out of his grasp to tend to the pastries.
“For now,” he replies, his gaze lingering on me in a way that promises retribution later.
The rest of the morning unfolds in a rhythm we’ve perfected over the past six months. Breakfast together, a leisurely stroll through the garden, and a quiet hour spent in our respective corners – Seb in his office, catching up on work, and me in the library, losing myself in a new book. Ever since I hired a manager and a team to help at the boutique, I’ve had more free time than I know what to do with, though Seb has a few ideas about what I can do now that I’m freed up a little more.
It’s a life I never imagined for myself–content, fulfilling, and rooted in a love that feels both grounding and exhilarating.Every day, Seb and I grow closer, discovering new facets of each other and deepening the bond we share.
By the time afternoon rolls around, the sun is high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the patio where we’re lounging. Seb is sprawled on a chaise, his shirt unbuttoned, exposing the smooth planes of his chest, while I’m curled up beside him, my head resting on his shoulder.
“Are you happy?” he asks suddenly, his voice low and contemplative.
I glance up at him, surprised by the question. “Of course I am. Why do you ask?”
He shrugs, his fingers idly tracing patterns along my arm. “Just making sure I’m doing my job right.”
I reach up to cup his cheek, my thumb brushing over his stubble. “You’re doing more than right, Seb. I’ve never been happier.”
His gaze softens, and he leans down to press a kiss to my forehead. “Good. Because I plan to keep it that way.”
The sun has dipped below the horizon by the time Seb pulls me into the bedroom, his expression dark with intent. The air between us crackles with anticipation, and I know tonight will be one of those nights–a night where we push boundaries and explore the edges of pain and pleasure.
He closes the door behind us, the soft click echoing in the quiet room. “Strip,” he commands, his voice low and authoritative.