Most of my growth has been with my naivety. I've learned to speak up where Sebastian is concerned. He's not perfect, and neither am I. What goes on in his head isn't always clear to me, so when I need to, I ask him what his intentions are about whatever is confusing me. He's aware if I do ask him that, he needs to stop doing whatever it is and think before he speaks. Sometimes his ghosts reappear. It's typically during a vulnerable conversation, so I try to stay patient and gently ask him point-blank if what he's saying is how I'm interpreting it.

Normally, he's trying to tell me something completely different than what I'm hearing. So we've both learned the more we can talk about an issue, the stronger our marriage grows.

When I think about my life before him, it seems so dull. He's opened a new world for me, not only due to his lifestyle but because of the love he shows me daily.

I tear my gaze off him and motion to the Martins. They step forward next to me, and the mayor hands them a huge pair of scissors. I grab Sebastian's hand, and he kisses it then releases it. He slides his arm around my waist, tugging me against him, right where I belong.

The Martins cut the red ribbon, and everyone cheers louder than before.

Sebastian spins me into his arms and gives me a chaste kiss. Then he leans into my ear. "Well done, Mrs. Cartwright."

I beam at him. "We did it!"

He shakes his head. "No. You did it."

I open my mouth to protest, but he puts his finger over my lips. He leans into my ear and states, "Sunshine, I think it's time I showed you how proud of you I am." He gives me a challenging stare.

My favorite scent of praline, citrus, and sandalwood teases my nostrils. I squeeze my thighs together, arch my eyebrows, and reply, "Oh? What's involved?"

His lips twitch. "Now, what fun would it be if I told you?"

I put my fingers together, bat my eyelids, and whine, "Just a little hint?"

He chuckles, undresses me with his eyes, and my cheeks flush with heat. His hot breath hits my lobe, and he teases, "What would you say if it involves sugar, roses, my tongue, and your naked body?"

I inhale deeply, shift on my feet, and lift my chin. "I think that would be perfect, Mr. Cartwright."

Mafia Wars Ireland Spinoff Series

Are you ready for the O'Connors in

Mafia Wars Ireland?

Cover Reveals and Titles Coming Soon!

Book One (Brody)- May 1, 2023

Book Two (Aidan) - June 1, 2023

Book Three (Devin) - July 15, 2023

Book Four (Tynan) - Sept 1, 2023

But before MW Ireland….I've got some other goodies for you…

Holiday Hoax (A Fake Marriage Billionaire Romance - Stand Alone and all new characters) - Nov. 15

Club Indulgence Duet - A Dark Billionaire Romance

The Auction (Book One) - Feb. 1