Avowed (The Manipulation Trilogy Book 3) Read online

  Once cleaned, Damon told me to relax whist he collected a few last minute needs for our week away. He still won’t tell me where we’re going but I’m excited none the less. I told Damon of my plans to visit my dad before we left. He wanted to join me but I declined, wanting to do this alone.

  I could tell he was reluctant to let me leave alone but after a few kisses of reassurance and a promise to be gone no longer than thirty minutes, he finally accepted. I know Damon wanted to argue further but he kept his arguments to himself and told me he was sorry he wouldn’t be there with me but definitely wanted to be for the next visit.

  I never intended to invite Damon along and I’m sure he knew that when I told him my plans. I just wanted some alone time to share my happiness with my dad, but now I’m here I wish Damon would have come. I’m not sad anymore, and there is no pain weighing me down.

  Now I have better news to tell Pops, happy memories to share with him.

  Pulling up to the graveyard, I take a deep breath. I can’t remember ever coming here feeling so light. Pops’ grave is my safe place, the place I can moan and rant. I wanted to come here yesterday, wanted to share my wedding day with him, but I knew my emotions would get the best of me so I decided to wait.

  I haul my arse out the driver’s seat and lock up my car before waddling my way to his grave. The first thing I notice as I approach the grave is a fresh bouquet of flowers. Colours bloom, and the fragrance perfumes the air.

  A small smile pulls at my lips. Someone was here recently. The flowers can’t be a day old because they’re still fresh, not yet wilting. I’d love to know who cares for Pops as much as I do. I’d like to thank them.

  “Hi Daddy,” I whisper, not wanting to disturb the peace that settles all around the sleeping masses of loved ones. I settle myself on the ground next to his headstone. “Yesterday was amazing. It was so much fun, and filled with so much love. I wish you could have been there.” Emotion clogs my throat, making me pause. I swallow before continuing.

  “It was magical. Flora made her house and garden look like a wonderland,” I say, smiling. “Everything went perfectly, better in fact. Then we had some party crashers. One I didn’t mind because she seemed genuine, the other, not so much.”

  I still don’t know Leona’s game. She acted like she was going to blow my world apart, when really all she did was force my hand to tell Damon earlier then I wanted, and that couldn’t have worked out better for us. Damon forgave me, but knowing who I was, who my sister was, must have made everything easier to accept.

  “He knew Daddy. Damon knew who I am, who Lydia was. He’s okay with it. Can you believe that? He’s really okay with it. He knows I love him, and said that’s all that matters.” I smile knowing how lucky I am. Yesterday was magical and it could have all still fallen down around me. I could have lost everything.

  “He’s taking me away for a week alone. Just the two of us to enjoy the start of married life. I planned to tell him everything then but I’m glad it’s all out in the open now. We can just enjoy that time in each other’s arms without suffering, without pain.”

  I take a deep cleansing breath. Although I missed Pops terribly yesterday, George and Tom eased some of my pain. They helped me forget I was missing the second most important man in my life, made it easy to realise Pops was there with me. He would always be with me in my heart.

  “I never thought I’d get a father daughter dance. I wouldn’t have wanted one with you not being there, but George changed all that. He made me see that just because you aren’t there doesn’t mean I can’t still have a dance and second father. When he asked me for a dance he told me he didn’t want to take it away from you Daddy, he just wanted to share it with you. I cried for most of the dance while he soothed me.” I smile. “He wanted to know all about you, he wanted to know the man who fathered me.”

  “I told him all about you Pops. George shed a tear or two with me. He held me, and promised that he didn’t want to replace you but wanted to share me. He called me his daughter, Daddy,” I choke out with a smile. “He’s a wonderful man. You’d like him. You’d be happy with how he treats me.” Happy tears stream down my face at finally finding a family that loves me. One that wants to keep me.

  “George told me he wanted to ask to walk me down the aisle, but when he found out Tom was he knew that was the right decision. Tom’s been so good to me Daddy. He’s always been there for me, always fought for me, even when I didn’t realise he was. It was the perfect day, and the only thing that could have made it perfectly complete would have been having you there. I miss you. I miss you so much but I’m doing okay Pops. I’m living and I’m happy. I know that’s what you want for me.”

  “You can’t imagine how much better I feel knowing my secrets are out, my plans are known. I feel like I’m breathing above the water now, like I’m floating along in Damon’s arms, no longer struggling below the surface, drowning in grief. He keeps me afloat to see the beauty of the world again instead of being drowned in the murky waters of loss. He gives me what you always did. Life. Love. Happiness. He’s given me a family again.”

  I think back to how Damon, Flora, George and Spencer all stood tall with me, defending me when Leona wanted to tear me down. They put up a wall of protectiveness, keeping me locked in the middle, safe. I couldn’t wish for a better family to love.

  “They all want me Daddy. They all care deeply for me, but I don’t want them to know what I planned. I don’t want them to look at me any differently. Damon promised they won’t ever find out and I have to believe him. I do believe him. He’ll do everything he can to keep that promise to me, I know he will.”

  “I’m happy Daddy. Truly happy. I don’t want this place to be a sad place for me anymore, even a safe place. I want it to be happy. I want to share all my happiness with you, so no more moaning. I promise you I’m happy and living my life. That’s all I want to share with you now. Your little girl finally has everything you used to tell me I deserved. It took a while for me to believe that, for me to want the same things you wanted for me, but I really have it all now.”

  Jellybean kicks me, making me laugh. I rub my large belly in the spot where my daughter is attacking me, and feel her foot press into my palm.

  “Your granddaughter wants to be included, she’s kicking me here,” I say, laughing through my tears. “I want her to know you Daddy. I want her to have this place to feel close to you even though she’ll never meet you. I’ll tell her about you every night. I’ll share my happy memories of you with her. She’ll know you Pops.” I choke in a breath, wishing more than anything that he could be here. The only thing missing in my life now is Pops. He’s the only missing piece.

  Trying to gather my emotions, I trace Pops’ name on his headstone. It’s a beautiful day today and the sun is shining down on my back, heating me up. The afternoon sun is high in the sky, lighting the world up around me.

  “I need to head out Daddy, before Damon sends out a search party for me,” I say laughing. “He worries too much.” I stand, stretching my back. “I’ll come back soon and I’ll bring some pictures for you. I love you Pops.” I place a kiss to his headstone before walking away.

  It isn’t until I near my car that I get a feeling of being watched. At first my hairs at the back of my neck stand on end, then my heart races as if it knows danger is about. I glance around, but find nothing out of place. Shaking my head I realise it’s probably Pops coming with me, keeping me safe until I return to my husband. A smile spreads on my face as I climb into my car and go back to the love of my life.

  CHAPTER FOUR

  September 28th 2014

  Ella

  When we arrive at the cottage in north Wales I am speechless. Damon couldn’t have picked a more perfect place for us to stay. Stepping out of the car I take a moment to appreciate the beauty that surrounds me, breathing in the sea air.

  Beautiful flowering bushes line the whole cottage, bursting with colour and fragrance. I follow them round the home
, absorbing each breathtaking view as I travel to the rear. My breath hitches when I reach the back of the cottage. It’s stunning.

  Breathtaking.

  There is a courtyard with beautiful wicker furniture scattered about, and an archway leading to steps that lead you down to a huge garden filled with flowers. The cottage itself is made of stone, each one different and shaped to fit perfectly, creating the magical home in front of me. French double doors gleam in the sunlight, reflecting my awed image back to me.

  I walk over and peek inside, noticing the French doors lead into the lounge and a bit further along, the kitchen. Jasmine fills the air, mixing with the natural smells of the coast.

  I walk towards the arch and take in the breathtaking view all around me. Fields, hills, and the sea as far as the eyes can see are a picture perfect destination to share with Damon. A smile breaks across my lips as peace settles deep within my soul. Damon and I have a lot to talk about, but now isn’t the time. I have questions that need answers but I’m in no rush. We have a lifetime together.

  I want to spend a few blissful days with my husband, enjoying this peaceful feeling for as long as possible. Without questions being asked. Just him and me.

  I feel him approach from behind, his body heat warming me when he comes to a stop, and presses his body against mine. His arms band round my ever expanding waist and he interlocks our fingers as he rests his chin on my shoulder. His breath against my skin tickles my neck with its warm caress. My body melts back into his, and I’m enjoying his company and our surroundings. I shut my eyes, trying to capture this moment in my memory forever. This feeling.

  Contentment.

  We stand for a few moments until we hear a car pull up. Both of us turn our heads to the drive at the same time, watching as an older lady climbs out of her car before reaching into the back and pulling out a hamper basket. Damon releases his hold and clasps my hand, pulling me to greet the woman.

  When we reach her, Damon pulls me to his side, his arm going around my shoulders, pulling me into the crook of his arm. His other hand settles against our daughter, softly caressing my bump.

  “Ella this is Rose. She owns the cottage. Rose this is my beautiful wife, Ella.” Hearing him call me his wife makes me feel warm inside, and butterflies take flight in my heart. I finally belong to someone. I reach out my hand to Rose and she grips it tightly before stepping forward and pulling me into a hug.

  Slightly taken aback, I pause a moment before hugging her back, feeling slightly awkward. The Welsh really are friendly. When she pulls away she is smiling as her eyes look down to my bump.

  “Congratulations. Damon told me the great news. When are you due?” Her question is animated, her face showing true happiness at our baby, and it puzzles me. Damon must know this lady more than just as a homeowner renting her place out. I make note to ask him about it later.

  “Thank you,” I say with a smile. “I'm due at the end of January.” My hand rests on my stomach as my eyes fall to my growing bump. I still find it hard to believe I have a baby growing inside me, and I’m helping to give her life until she’s strong enough to go it alone.

  “Oh my goodness, please excuse me. You don’t want to be chatting out here, it’s cold. Let’s get inside and I will show you around and then leave you to it.” We watch as she takes out a key and opens the door, walks in and deposits the basket on the kitchen side. We follow her in and as she walks around, showing us where the bedroom, bathroom and lounge are. I can’t help but smile. She reminds me of Flora.

  Once Rose gives us a tour and says her goodbyes, she makes a quick exit. I walk around absorbing the serenity of our accommodations. The cottage is decorated in calm, neutral tones with pops of colour tastefully placed in strategic places. Scatter cushions in teal add to the beige couch, flowered canvases adorn the walls, and the drapes match.

  Damon moves between the car and the bedroom as he brings our things in. I start to unpack food items we’ve brought with us, including the basket Rose left filled with fresh eggs, bread, milk, crackers and some Welsh beer, which I'm sure Damon will enjoy later. I finally put the last of the groceries away and move to stand in front of the glass doors, to watch the sun going down.

  Pinks, reds, oranges, and purples paint the sky, streaks finely blended together to create a magical backdrop to the surrounding countryside.

  I sense Damon approach me from behind, but he doesn’t put his arms around me as I expect. Instead his fingers run from my wrist up to my shoulder leaving a trail of fire on my skin. Hooking a finger under the strap of my vest, he slowly lowers it. I feel his hot breath on my shoulder making a shiver run through me before I feel the press of his lips against my skin. He peppers kisses along my shoulder and up my neck, setting my whole body on fire, before he repeats his actions on the other side.

  Damon's hands move to cup my breasts, squeezing my nipples. It feels incredible. I let out a moan as heat spreads through my body, his touch setting an inferno of lust running through my veins. I arch back into him, pressing my arse against him and thrusting my chest further into his hands. He growls in my ear, setting goosebumps off across every inch of my body. He pushes back into me, letting me feel his arousal.

  Grasping the hem of my tank top, he quickly removes it, and then he unclasps my bra and frees my breasts. Cold settles around me as he steps away with my top and bra, and I know he’s just looking at me, just watching. My breasts feel heavy and achy. The loss of his touch makes me lift my hands to gently massage my tits, squeezing and lifting them. Pinching my nipples does nothing to ease the fire inside. I need Damon’s touch. My body craves him.

  Damon stops me from turning when I attempt to, by placing his hands on my shoulders, and keeping me facing the outside. Running his palms down my arms until they reach my fingers he gently lifts my arms, pressing them into the cold glass door, so that they are above my head. I let out a sigh when my swollen nipples make contact with the glass. His hands skim down my arms slowly, grazing my breasts as he continues his path down to my hips, and he grips me tightly, pressing against me.

  “You’re so beautiful Ella,” he rasps.

  As he trails his fingers up and down my spine my legs begin to shake. I feel his hot lips kissing my shoulder at the same time. His hand gently grazes across my breast and I arch slightly so that he can cup it but instead he moves further down over my bump until he reaches my maternity jeans. He tugs on them, taking my knickers with him, and slides them down my legs, which are now shaking with need.

  Placing his hand around my ankle he lifts my foot to help me step out of my jeans. Now that I am completely naked he turns me to face him. His mouth meets mine in a gentle kiss, and I moan out loud at the connection.

  Damon pulls away as I try to deepen the kiss, making me sigh in frustration. He lets out a chuckle and my eyes snap open. When I look at his face he looks amused, but ducks his head to kiss along my collarbone. When his mouth reaches my nipple, I move forward to give him the access I crave, but he continues to kiss down. When he drops to his knees, and his hands rest on my hips as his lips kiss along my ever growing stomach, I let out a long loud moan.

  With his cheek resting on my stomach, I run my fingers through his hair, wrapping my arms around his head and cradling him to me. It’s so intimate, and the moment hits me hard as an overwhelming feeling of love washes over me at how much he already loves our daughter.

  We stay like this for a few minutes, until our little jellybean moves, making flutters inside. I laugh and Damon looks at me in question. I tell him she moved and he looks at me in awe. I listen as he begins to whisper sweet nothings to our daughter before he stands up and lifts me into his arms. When he starts walking to the back of the cottage I think he is going to take me to the bedroom but instead he walks us into the bathroom. When he opens the door hot steam hits me as I see he ran me a bath when he finished bringing our things in from the car. He checks to make sure it’s not too hot before picking me up and placing me in the bubbly water.r />
  I watch as he turns and leaves without saying a word, only to reappear a few minutes later carrying a basket that he places down on the side of the tub. It's filled with a variety of beauty treatments. He reaches into the basket and pulls out a bag of candles placing them around the bathroom before taking a few moments to light them.

  Satisfied that he has them all lit, he comes and stands at the side of the bath, looking down at me with a smile. My husband is delicious, even just standing there with a slight sheen of sweat gathering on his face from the steam inside the room. His t shirt clings to his muscular body making my mouth water.

  “Are you coming in?” I ask. My voice comes out barely above a whisper and I wait longingly for his answer to be yes.

  He reaches for the button on his jeans, and slowly unbuttons them, letting them fall to the floor. He steps out of them, pulling his t shirt over his head at the same time. He is a god. Seeing his body makes my mouth water and my core clench.

  I move forward in the bath tub so Damon can climb in behind me, and when he is settled, I rest my back against his strong chest. Clutching me to him, his hands come round to rest on my stomach, and he softly strokes my bump.

  “I wonder what she will be like,” he muses.

  “Beautiful, just like you,” I answer. I always picture her with the Hunt’s looks. They’re all naturally stunning.

  “She is going to keep me on my toes, just like her mother.” Damon says calmly. I turn my head to look at him and laugh at the small grin gracing his perfect lips.

  “You mean just like her father?” I ask with a raised brow. Damon chuckles.

  “Okay, she will be just like us both, but with your beautiful looks.” His hand gently rubs along my stomach, softly massaging it as he goes along.

  I turn so I'm now straddling his lap. He scoots forwards so I can wrap my legs around his waist, and I have to lean back slightly as my bump rests against his stomach. His eyes glaze over as his hands move up to cup my breasts.