Aaliya

IT’S BEEN TWO WEEKS since Damien and I returned to London after spending five blissful days at Heaven’s Gate. True to his word, Celia left the next morning even before we arose. But thinking of her makes the hair on my arms rise. Every time I think of her, my instincts scream that she’s going to be a problem. But so far, there has been only silence from her side. Thank God for that!

I’m back to working on Jonathan’s renovation project from the office here in London. Damien’s busy working either here at Gamma Inc. or at Annette & Co. or with his various Ducal duties. It’s phenomenal the amount of hours he puts in. Several times he works from home late into the night or early in the morning. I’ve started spending all my nights at his place and we have formed a comfortable routine.

We are happy and the only thing that stands in the way of my complete and utter happiness is that I still have to tell him the truth about Rian and me. My whole situation with him is a deception and I wake up many nights unable to fall back asleep, convincing myself that I have to confess everything to him and praying that it will all work out.

No one knows that we are together except for Gabe and Jonathan, who now knows the entire truth and is quite supportive. I’m thankful I’ve found another good friend in him. He truly cares about Damien and me. Damien has reconciled with Jonathan, sort of at least, but it’s a start. The only time I’ve seen him completely relax and be at ease is when he’s with me or with his two friends. He needs them and I’m glad that he has them. So far, we’ve managed to stay away from the public eye completely, choosing to meet Gabe and Jonathan at Damien’s home or at either of theirs.

But we can’t remain sequestered forever. And once we decide to step out publicly then the media only has to dig into my background and figure out we’re married. The last thing I want is for Damien to find out that way.

My cellphone rings on my desk and I lift it with a smile as I see Jasmine’s face light up my screen. I shut the door of my office and give a small wave to Leo, my new bodyguard. Damien hired him on Mike’s recommendation and he is with me all the time. Even now, he stands at attention right outside my office.

“Hey, Aaliya,” Jasmine says as soon as I answer the call.

“Hi Jasmine. How are you? How’s my baby?” I ask her.