Chapter 48: Chapter 48

- I think that was the best sundae I've ever had... - Missy praised, smiling happily as she gave a last wistful lick of the small spoon she had been using to eat.

- And to think you didn't want to come... - Logan laughed, keeping his hand intertwined with hers as he watched her throw the small cup into a trash can, before they continued to walk calmly through the mall - If you liked it so much, I promise we'll come here whenever possible, just like we do with our restaurant.

- Our restaurant? Missy smiled, liking the sound of that phrase, even though she was confused.

- That's what I've been calling your favorite Italian restaurant, at least to myself. – he smiled, slightly embarrassed – That place became special to me, not only because it was, technically, our first date, but also… Because, for the first time, I felt that we were starting to have a connection. – Logan caressed her face gently with his other hand – I felt… That we were made for each other, not only because I loved you more than anything, but also… Because you really cared about me, even if it was just as a friend, at the time.

- Of course I've always cared about you. – Missy stood on tiptoe to kiss him – I thought you acted a little strange, it's true, but… I never really had any resentment towards you. I tried to be understanding and think that you had the right not to like me, even if it was... A slightly inexplicable dislike. – She giggled – But, even before you became my best friend… I… – Missy blushed, embarrassed – I admit that I already felt a little attracted to you, despite thinking that you felt exactly the same way. contrary.

- Serious? His eyes widened with shock and delight, which made her laugh again.

- I don't know why you look so surprised. Did you really think I would be distracted enough not to notice the most handsome man in the world? – She joked, giving a small kiss on his nose – Although I always tried to control my reactions when I was around you.

-If only I had realized it sooner… – he murmured sensually, leaning down so he could press his lips to her neck, making her shiver – I would have fucked up and tried to seduce you since the first day of this year.

- I would have been very confused… – she laughed shyly – But, even if I had tried to resist… I think you would have managed.

- Well, maybe not… - Logan smiled crookedly – Maybe Devon and my mother would end up killing me before, when they found out that I was being low and immoral enough to try to seduce you, even though I knew you were compromised.

- So... Does everyone in your family know about... What do I mean to you? – she asked hesitantly, not knowing very well how to define it – And… Do you also know about our dating being fake?

- Yes. - Logan admitted, a little embarrassed - Well, it was a little hard not to realize that there was something wrong with me and, whenever I talk about you or hear someone talk... - His face lit up, as he stared at her, enchanted – It is impossible to disguise my reaction. – he smiled beautifully, making her heart race – And then, when I started my plan, my brothers and my parents obviously came to confront me, wanting to know what the hell I was doing by taking action only after you had suffered a disappointment loving. They all love you and were afraid that I would hurt you even more in my attempt to finally make up for the time I wasted being an asshole. - He smiled crookedly - So yes, they all know... Although Megan was the last to know. – he added hesitantly – Of course, she was suspicious from the beginning, but I asked Devon not to reveal my feelings to her… Unless she asked, of course. - Logan rolled his eyes - It's not like he's going to be able to deny her anything, anyway. Thankfully, when I started to make the effort to ignore you, she focused on fighting me instead of thinking about what the twinkle in my eyes whenever you were around meant. Until... The day before our plan... I had a heart-to-heart talk with her.

- Serious? - Missy asked, surprised - About what?

- About what I felt for you. – Logan admitted in a low voice, staring at the marble floor as they walked slowly, aimlessly – I knew I couldn't just follow through with my plan to conquer her, without making it very clear to the most important person in her life what my mines were. real intentions. Of course, she wasn't satisfied with the fact that I was taking advantage of her moment of weakness to insert myself into her life… – he sighed, disgusted.

- It wasn't like that... - Missy lamented, touching his chin gently, wanting to console him - You didn't force me to do anything. I also wanted to be with you and discover myself... And look how far that has brought us. – she smiled sweetly – Please, don't talk about it as if it were something bad.

- Thank you love. – He pulled her hand and kissed it gently – I'm glad you think so. But I spent a lot of time debating with myself, wondering if I really should suggest this revenge plan, knowing that I would be hiding my true intentions... Until I realized that I was too selfish not to take advantage of the opportunity to have you with me . – he sighed – That's why I wanted Megan to know that I wasn't simply taking advantage of her vulnerability. I wanted her to know that I wanted, more than anything, to make you happy and help you get over what those bastards did to you... - he snarled between his teeth, before his expression softened - And, of course, I wish I had a chance to... try to make you fall in love with me.

- And he did. Missy smiled brightly, resting her head against his shoulder.

- And I will thank you for this blessing every day of my life... – he promised, kissing her softly, before continuing – Well, it took some time for Megan to finally get exhausted after giving me a long lecture about how I it had been irresponsible for me to have waited for you to have your heart broken, and only then to try to get close to me, instead of having done that the first day we met, like all the other Knights. – He gave a sarcastic smile that she didn't understand – However, when she finally ended all the almost two years of complaints she had accumulated… She threatened me. – He laughed – I said that, for my own good, I should make you the happiest woman in the world, because, if I dared to break her heart even more, she would personally make me regret it. – he said, good-naturedly.

- Megan knew about what you felt for me?! - Missy asked, perplexed, suddenly remembering some strangely ambiguous phrases that Megan had already said to her about Logan and that now made sense - Why didn't she...? – she started to ask, but Logan interrupted her.

- I asked her not to tell. - Logan explained, head down - Please, don't be mad at her. I wanted to build our relationship naturally, rather than just throwing all this magic and love at first sight madness at you so soon. That's why I didn't want to tell you... And I also asked that nobody tell either. So I could make sure you didn't feel pressured to love me back... Just knowing I wouldn't be able to get over how I feel about you.

- I... I understand. – Missy stammered, still perplexed – It's just… I told her I was in love with you and she still didn't even…

- She knew you were in love with me?! – Logan gasped – And you didn't think to tell me, even knowing how miserable I was, thinking you only saw me as a friend?

Missy couldn't help a small, amused, satisfied smile form on her face. "I think you now know how I feel."

Logan pressed his lips together, trying to look annoyed, though she could clearly see he was trying to contain his own smile.

- Well, I guess that evens things out. Probably she must have played the tarot and seen that it would be better to remain silent. – He joked, although his face was absolutely respectful, which warmed Missy's heart.

- I think everyone will be happy when they know that now our relationship is real, isn't it? she asked in a low voice, smiling contentedly.

- My brothers yes. My parents are having a party or setting off fireworks…or probably both. – Logan joked, before pulling her into his arms, in a loving embrace – But I can't blame them. They considered you a daughter from the moment Megan introduced the three of you. All they wanted from me was for me to finally make it official. – He rested his face against her hair, giving an exultant sigh – And, if it's up to me, soon you'll be much more than just an aggregated Knight.

Even though I didn't understand exactly what he meant by that, Missy just hugged him back happily, feeling the shapes of his muscular chest against her breasts as she breathed in his thick, musky scent, enjoying that blissful moment, until Logan suddenly stopped walking. , stopping them in front of a shop window. Surprised, Missy stared at the lewd, almost dazed expression on his face before moving her gaze to see what he was staring at, blushing heavily afterwards.

It was the window of a lingerie store and, behind the glass, mannequins of various sizes displayed delicate lace pieces with a lot of transparency and revealing cuts... That were inspired by Disney princesses. At the foot of each mannequin was an image of the princess the piece was based on. And Missy she only managed to blush even more when she turned to Logan and realized that he was now looking at her with an even more indecent expression, sporting a crooked and malicious smile.

"These lingerie would look perfect on you…" he purred, his voice full of desire, still with that obscene aura that was disconcerting her, especially when they were out in public.

- W-which one? - She tried to divert attention to the tiny pieces, although his gaze was still burning her body.

- All of them. – he murmured categorically, his voice so heavy that, although he wasn't touching her intimately, she felt shivers run down her back, almost as if they were already alone in the room, while she wore one of those pieces for him – That would certainly leave our funniest fantasies, no? – His breath tickled the back of her neck and she had to bite her lip to stop herself from moaning, trying to press her thighs together discreetly, while the scenario he was describing formed inside her mind…

That's when, as her nervous eyes wandered around in an attempt to focus on something other than the arousal building inside her, Missy came across an unknown man pointing a camera at them nearby.

- Missy, what is it? - Logan asked when he felt her freeze, pulling away a little so he could look her in the eyes.

- Hmmm... I know it's weird, but... - she looked at the guy with the cell phone again, who seemed not intimidated by her noticing him - I think that man is photographing us.

As agile as a lion, Logan glared in the direction of the unknown man, whose hand had suddenly become wobbly with fear.

-What the fuck... - Logan half growled and half sighed, pulling her even more against his chest, this time in an obvious attempt to hide her face.

- Do you know him? Missy asked, confused, as he began to lead them out of the mall with hurried steps.

- No, but I know the look on his face. – Logan grunted, while calling the valet to bring his car – He is that detestable type of person who recognized my face and now he will send our photos to the gossip portals, wanting to receive money for the “busting”. – he said that last word with deep disgust – Damn. I want everyone to know that I love you and that we're together, but... I hate to think that you're going to have to deal with the shit the media can come up with. – he sighed, irritated – Discreet people like me are full of speculations they like to make. I can't imagine what they're going to come up with, now that they know I'm with you... - As soon as he helped her into the car, Logan immediately gave her a regretful expression – Sorry, love. I should have been more careful. It's just... The harassment has decreased so much over the years, I don't even need security anymore when I go out in public places and...

- Logan, you don't need to apologize. – Smiling, she leaned over to kiss him – I don't care what they write about us. I don't even read that kind of stuff. All I care about is that you are with me. Just it. Missy stated categorically, gently stroking his face.

"Still, I hate that they're going to start poking around your life like rats, looking for something compromising." – Logan sighed, irritated – But, don't worry, love, I'll talk to Simon and make sure our relationship is formally announced... Even if I just don't understand why exactly I have to announce it to the public, just because the media decided to turn their spotlight on me someday. – He rolled his eyes, full of contempt – Luckily, Simon understands much more about how social networks work for personal issues than I do. I'm sure he'll make sure the tabloids get frustrated and maybe there won't be a fuss... - he was interrupted by the ringing of his cell phone, raising his eyebrows as he pulled it out of his pants pocket - Sometimes I surprise myself with how impeccable Simon has when it comes to work. - Logan muttered, before answering the call.

- Tell him I said hi. – Missy asked, laughing.

-Simon… – he paused, listening to what his assistant had to say – Yes, Simon, I know. But I also know full well that this agency works fantastically well, with or without my presence. By the way, consider this my official vacation announcement... No, it will only be for a few days... For now. – he smiled in her direction – I have plans to be away for much longer, but I know it would be too sudden, for now. But have no doubt it will happen... - he placed his hand on Missy's knee, caressing it - Now listen, Simon... - There was another pause, before Logan sighed heavily - Oh, no, the Raquela and Fernando's party is at this Saturday? Damn, I had completely forgotten about that! – he grunted – Yes, I know, I don't want to disappoint you… I know I can't escape this one. – he sighed, regretful – Just confirm the damn invitation, Simon. I'll be there on Saturday night... - There was another moment of silence, until he turned his eyes to her, looking excited, but at the same time anxious - No, Simon, you're right. I'm not going alone this year. Just wait a second, okay?

Confused, Missy watched as he held the cell phone tightly against his chest, surely preventing Simon from hearing what he was saying when she asked, in a low voice.

- What do you think about going to a party with me, love?

- Party? What... What kind of party? – Missy gulped, unsure – I mean, I'm really not good with fancy events... I'm too clumsy to pretend to be elegant and, when Mom still insisted on taking me to this type of meeting, she always repeated that I didn't know myself. behave and...

- Oh, Missy… - Logan sighed, gently caressing her face – I know it's not easy to forget all the criticisms your mother made to you throughout your life, but… You're not one of the degrading things that she was. already told you. And, in all honesty, I couldn't care less what the etiquette of this type of event is. – he rolled his eyes, annoyed – I decline invitations to most of them, after all. The only reason I want to go to this ball is because Raquela and Fernando Hernandez are a couple of good friends of mine. I've known them since I was a teenager and they've been vital in the agency's growth, always requesting models for their shows and recommending us to people they know... So I never hesitate to attend their events. However, before, I always went alone and left as soon as possible... To be honest, I wish I could still continue the tradition of leaving early, but now I know that I will never be alone again. – he smiled crookedly – I want to have you by my side, love. It doesn't matter if eating ice cream or at a refined party: I just want us to be together. - Logan caressed her face again, running his thumb over her lower lip, making her blush.

"I… I'm just afraid of doing something that would embarrass you…" Missy admitted shyly, not being able to stop herself from remembering all the times Victoria had already scolded her for not acting properly in that kind of opulent environment.

- I would never be ashamed of you, Missy. – Logan stared at her intensely, disturbed – And, if anyone at this ball dares to make her feel ashamed or uncomfortable in any way whatsoever, then the press will get the scoop they so desire, because I swear I will. that person regrets having been born. – he stated with extreme vehemence, making her laugh.

"You're so cute when you try to look mean…" she teased, touching the tip of his nose.

- I think you still haven't realized how serious I am, when it comes to you... - Logan sighed, good-humored, before pulling her hand to his lips, kissing it lovingly, before asking - And then? Did laughing at my promises convince you to come with me? – he looked at her persuasively, with a charming smile – I want to introduce you to my friends… And I want to, even though it's a little silly of me… – his cheeks gained a faded shade of pink – I also want to share this part of my life with you... I want you to be with me when I reap the fruits of my work and effort, from now on. And I want everyone we meet to know how happy and proud I am that we are together. I wanted to do this from the beginning, but... - he looked away shyly - I was afraid that it would scare you and you would end up pulling away... Since I still believed that everything between us was nothing more than an agreement.

- I am more than happy and proud that we are together, Logan. – she consoled him affectionately – And all I want is for us to share our lives with each other. Of course I'll go with you. - She leaned over to give him an intense and passionate kiss, which was only interrupted when they heard an indistinct call coming from Logan's cell phone, which he still kept pressed against her chest.

Smiling, Logan put the device back close to her ear as he laced his fingers through hers. – Simon? Please confirm the invitation on behalf of me and Missy... Thank you, Simon... And please be sure to make my relationship with her public as properly as possible... Yes, it's finally here the time. - Logan smiled, proud - Don't worry, Diana and Devon know how to get to me, if something important happens... I honestly don't know if we'll see each other soon. – he laughed – In fact, I'm almost sure. But I know the agency is in good hands with you and my brothers around. Have a nice day, Simon. - he finally ended the call, giving her a huge smile of thanks.

- Well... I think I'm going to need Megan's help to get ready, since this ball seems to be such an elegant event... - Missy bit her lip, still afraid that Logan's friends might not like her, but avoided revealing that fear to him.

- Do whatever it takes to feel comfortable, my love. – Logan leaned over to give her another warm kiss – Just remember that you are perfect and I love you more than anything. And trust me, I know the people who really matter at this party are going to love you too. After all, it's hard not to love. - He praised, descending teasing kisses on her neck, making her moan.

- It's amazing how you always say the right thing. – She gave a shaky laugh, as her eyes met again – You're always so perfect… – she sighed dreamily.

- No, I'm not perfect. And much less all the time. – He smiled sadly, before leaning his forehead against hers – But I hope I'm perfect for you. - He sighed, with such deep emotion in his eyes, that Missy felt her heart swell with so much love, making her smile passionately.

- You are. – she stated, emotional – There is no one more perfect for me than you.