“Great. I’ll arrange everything.”

I waited a beat. “I’ve been looking online at houses in Vegas—in and around the city.”

“I thought we decided on Reno.”

“I know, but Vegas is more international. My children are used to India—it’s not only crowded, but it’s also a hot climate. I think they’d do well in the desert.” I paused. “Also, they’re not white. Sanjay is really dark. I think they’d be more comfortable in a bigger city.”

Silence. Then Chris said, “You want to look for houses together while we’re there?”

“Yes.”

“Then I think two, three days there would do the trick.”

I turned around and kissed his lips. “Thank you for everything, Christopher—for saving me, for saving Juleen, for getting Sanjay back, for helping me heal, for doing all my divorce work, for all your financial support, not only this time but over the years. You have always been there for me. Always.”

“That’s truer than true.”

“Chris, I really want you to be happy. Do whatever you want—as long as it’s legal. You have my unwavering support.” I kissed him again. “There will never be another man in my life. I swear. I take you as is. Thank you again.”

“You’re welcome.” A pause. “Let’s get some sleep.”

“Okay.” I turned over and closed my eyes.

A minute passed. Then he said, “When you were with Devek, did you ever think about me?”

“All the time.” I sighed. “I missed you in bed. I missed your excitement. I missed your craziness. I missed you.”

“So why didn’t you contact me? I reached out about a hundred times.”

“I know. I was afraid. And I had Juleen to think about. As time passed, Gabe said you had a girlfriend. I thought you’d moved on.”

“I tried everything to forget you. Nothing worked.” He kissed my neck. “I don’t think a day went by when I didn’t think about you.” A pause. “Mostly not good thoughts.”

I smiled although he couldn’t see it. “I’m sure.”

“Anger kept me going. It motivated me to take control of my life, to do what I wanted and fuck the rest. This is my place! This is me!” Pause. “But in a way, you were the catalyst behind my success.”

“Then you should be thanking me.”

“I wouldn’t say that,” Chris said. “All I’m saying is that jealousy and misery can take you far. They can take you to some very strange places.”

CHAPTER 26