Alessia’s heart raced as she pulled up to the Deveraux estate that afternoon. The realization had hit her like a bolt of lightning the night before. I slept with Theo Deveraux. Her childhood friend, the boy she’d spent summers climbing trees with, sharing secrets, and sneaking cookies from the kitchen. Now he was a man—one who had unknowingly swept her off her feet at the ball.
Her palms were sweaty as she stepped out of the car, clutching her purse tightly. The grandeur of the estate hadn’t diminished with time. The sprawling gardens were immaculate, and the towering house gleamed under the afternoon sun. She hesitated at the door before ringing the bell, wondering if this visit was a mistake.
The door swung open to reveal Eleanor Deveraux, Theo’s mother. Her warm smile was as familiar as ever, instantly easing some of Alessia’s nerves.
“Alessia, darling!” Eleanor exclaimed, pulling her into a hug. “It’s been far too long. Look at you—you’re glowing!”
Alessia managed a smile, returning the embrace. “It’s good to see you, Mrs. Deveraux.”
“Oh, please, call me Eleanor,” she said with a laugh, ushering Alessia inside. “Come in, come in. I heard about the ring—Theo told me you were coming to pick it up.”
“Thank you for holding onto it,” Alessia said, following Eleanor through the grand foyer. “It means so much to me.”
“Of course, dear. We were happy to help,” Eleanor said warmly. “Theo’s just in the library. I’ll fetch him.”
Alessia barely had time to process the rush of emotions before Eleanor disappeared, leaving her standing in the opulent living room. The polished floors, crystal chandeliers, and tasteful art on the walls spoke of old money and timeless elegance. But none of it could distract her from the pounding of her heart.
When Theo appeared, Alessia’s breath caught in her throat. If she thought he had looked handsome at the ball, it was nothing compared to now. He wore a crisp white button-up shirt with the sleeves rolled up, revealing strong forearms. His dark hair was slightly tousled, and his sharp jawline was accentuated by the afternoon light streaming through the windows. A faint shadow of stubble dusted his face, adding a rugged charm to his polished look.
“Alessia,” he said, his deep voice smooth as ever. His piercing blue eyes locked onto hers, and she felt like the air had been knocked out of her lungs. “You came.”
“I…” she stammered, her cheeks flushing. “I needed the ring.”
Theo’s lips quirked into a small smile. “Of course. Come on, it’s in the library.”