She kissed me softly on my lips. “Thank you for trusting me with this part of you.”

“You’re welcome.” I kissed her back. “I don’t think I’m going to lock the door anymore. You can come and spend time here whenever you’d like.”

“Can I show the others?” She grabbed at my hands, an eager excitement making me smile.

I wanted to say no, imagining Luther’s amusement and Theo’s mockery. But I couldn’t disappoint her, and somehow, the risk seemed worth it. “Give me one last night by myself in here, and then, yes, you can.”

“And will you bring one of the big chairs in here for me to read?”

I rolled my eyes. “Don’t push your luck.” Then I smiled. “Of course I will.” I loved the idea of her sitting in here, curled up in a chair with one of the old books sprawled in her lap while I watered and repotted. It almost felt…domestic. And the idea was nicer than I ever thought it would be.

She laughed, tossing her hair back over her shoulders. I couldn’t stop the words from leaving my mouth.

“I love you,” I whispered.

Savannah paused, pursing her lips. “Really?”

“I just showed you my secret greenhouse filled with orchids and you’re questioning my love for you?” I smirked.

“Conservatory. Your secret conservatory, filled with orchids.” She leaned forward, pressing her lips against my ear. “I love you, too.”

I pulled back, looking deep into those stunning hazel eyes. “Say it again.”

“I love you, Felix. Every damn part of you. The good, the bad, and the hidden orchids.”

Savannah was just so fucking pretty. I couldn’t believe my luck. How did she love me? Even after I had fucked up and accused her of horrible things. Fuck, I was fortunate. I walked towards her, forcing her to step backwards until her ass bumped up against one of the empty benches. I wrapped my arms around her waist, lifting her to sit while I stood between her legs. “I don’t deserve you. But I’m not one to be ungrateful.”

I kissed her hard and deep, converting every single emotion I had felt since she first walked into this house. The anger that she was going to step inside no matter what I did, and the discomfort of knowing she would be so close forever. The frustration of her personality, and the intense lust of just being close to her. It was a rollercoaster I never wanted to get off of. I squeezed her tight, until she sighed into my open mouth. My cock grew hard. With the way she moaned and rubbed against me, I knew she could feel it, too. I pushed closer, until nothing was separating us except for a few pieces of fabric.