Page 174 of Wicked Promises (Fallen Royals 3)

“She really didn’t have anything to do with it? Your aunt, I mean?”

He shrugs. “She’s denying it, and no one’s implicated her. She’s nice enough. Probably only stuck around the marriage for Uncle David’s money, though.”

I nod. “Is that the surprise I’m not going to like?”

“No.” A mischievous expression comes over him. “That was the balm before I tell you that I got us an apartment in the city.”

My mouth drops open. “Why would you do that?”

“Because we’re both going to school. You’re going to apply to NYU and get in. And I already applied early decision to Columbia.”

I look up at the house I’ve been calling home for the past few months. “So, what, we’re going to finish high school and just… pack up and leave?”

“It’s only an hour away,” he says in a low voice. “Leaving doesn’t mean forever.”

“You said you were in love with me.”

He watches me. “I did.”

“You haven’t said it since,” I point out.

He wraps his hands around my waist, yanking me closer. One hand slides up my back, into my hair. It’s loose today, cascading in waves over my shoulders. Slowly, he lowers his mouth to mine, stealing a quick kiss before his lips move to my ear. His tongue flicks out, and I shudder.

“I’m so in love with you, Margo Wolfe. The person you were and the person you’ve become. You’re the only one I want for the rest of my life.”

I can’t stop the sudden tremble running through me.

I turn my head, catching his lips and leaning into it. This kiss is slow and hungry. It’s soul-demolishing. His tongue slides against mine, eliciting a groan from deep inside me.

When we break away, we’re both breathing heavy. I tip forward, resting my forehead against his.

“I’ve been in love with you forever,” I whisper. “And I’m so totally in love with you right now, I might just float away.”

“Forever,” he repeats.

I laugh and wave my wrist. The bracelet shines in the sunlight. “It was my idea to get married.”

His eyes darken. “When we get married for real, you’re getting something better than a braided bracelet.”

“When, huh?”

He pulls me closer, then guides me toward the front door.

“Yes, when,” he says. “There’s no escaping us.”

I rest my head on his shoulder. “I can live with that.”

Five Months Later

CALEB

I unlock the door and stride inside. The apartment has been furnished to my specifications, but it looks better than expected. I run my finger along the kitchen island, which is the only thing separating the kitchen from the rest of the open space.

It’s small, but it’ll do.

Keith Wolfe walks in, eyeing me like I’m crazy.

“This is mine?” he asks.