“And after resurrection, there is light. A light that refuses to allow my darkness to return. A light named Kerry Kind.”

A soft gasp catches in my throat, and my vision blurs with unshed tears.

“Kerry, you remind me every day that love isn’t lost. That second chances exist. That I’m not the sum of my pain, but the sum of the love I choose to embrace.”

A collective aww ripples through the crowd as cameras flash. I can only sit there, completely overcome by the words coming out of his mouth.

Vic takes a steadying breath, looking out over the crowd. “So, I accept this honor, not just as a chef, not just as a man who lost his way and found it again, but as proof that love is the greatest thing we’ll ever create. This—” he holds up the award. “And the man I am today is because of the resurrecting beauty of love.”

The entire coliseum erupts into thunderous applause of thunderous, a standing ovation of teary-eyed admiration.

Vic stands there, taking it all in—humble, powerful, and raw. I’ve never been more in awe of a man, and I can’t look away. I’m stunned not just by his talent or success but by his heart. His resilience. His love.

And in this moment, I realize without hesitation, doubt, or fear that I’m completely and irreversibly in love with Victor Grimes.

Chapter 27

Sinfully Sweet – Kerry

Vic and I are riding a high, refusing to let any drama ruin our night. Not a night like this—one filled with celebration, laughter, and no one else but us.

After we talk to Syd and Ari and tell them how much we love them, we agree to turn off our phones and focus solely on each other for the rest of the night.

Back at the lake house, I let the night’s chaos soak away in the tub, steam curling around me as warm water kisses my skin. I close my eyes, letting my mind wander, knowing Vic is preparing something for us in the kitchen. A “sweet delight” is what he calls it, and with the way his voice dipped when he said it, I know it’ll be more than just dessert.

My body hums, still buzzing with pride and admiration for Vic, for the way he stood tall tonight, for the way he claimed me in front of the world—not just with his words, but with his unwavering presence. The weight of everything, Cory’s games, the past, and the future—it all drifts away for now.

I soak in the warmth, letting it settle deep in my bones before stepping out, knowing full well I’m about to get dirty again. With a deep breath, I slip into something I’ve never worn before, lingerie I specifically purchased for tonight—a sheer black lace slip barely hiding anything.