Sorry My Step-Uncle, I'm Not Your Backup Plan novel Chapter 59

"Asher..." Gabriella whispered.

His lips brushed her cheek. "I'm here."

"About Davenport, and the fight with Drake..." she hesitated. "If your family knew you nearly killed someone because of me, would they call off our engagement?"

Asher kissed her forehead. "They won't find out. I won't let that happen."

She lowered her eyes, voice small. "You shouldn't risk everything for me."

"Gabby." He tilted her chin up, making her meet his gaze. "You're worth everything. You matter more to me than my own life."

His dark eyes burned with intensity.

Gabriella froze, overwhelmed by his words. She hadn't realized how deeply he cared.

Her eyelashes fluttered with fresh tears.

She was terrified - not of him, but for him. The thought of him nearly going to prison because of her made her heart ache.

"Why more tears?" His voice drew her back.

She pouted. "Then wipe them away."

His thumb gently brushed her cheeks.

Suddenly, she wrapped her arms around his waist, burying her face in his chest like a small cat seeking comfort.

Asher's heart melted.

"You smell nice," she murmured against him.

He chuckled. "Enjoy it then."

"Kiss me," she whispered.

Asher thought he'd misheard. He held her shoulders, looking into her eyes. "What did you say?"

Blushing to her ears, she bit her lip. "Kiss me..."

His lips met hers instantly.

For her first kiss, Gabriella froze, unsure how to respond. Her heart thundered in her chest.

Asher kissed her gently.

When his breathing grew uneven, he pulled away.

Gabriella saw his flushed face and darkened eyes.

"Why did you stop?" she asked dazedly.

"You should rest," he managed, struggling for composure. "If we continue..."

Gabriella understood his meaning, her face burning. "Goodnight then. Be careful going home."

He gazed at her intently. "So sweet."

"What?"

His finger brushed her lips. "Here. So sweet."

Gabriella's whole body tingled. She fled to her bedroom. "Goodnight!"

Watching her retreat, Asher smiled tenderly.

The next day, Gabriella prepared to visit the Blackwood estate for dinner.

Inside, Lord and Lady Blackwood welcomed them warmly. Grace stood beside them, making polite conversation. Gabriella's eyes passed over her without expression.

Dinner was lavish, clearly arranged with care—every dish a favorite of Gabriella's.

Afterward, the families gathered in the drawing room to discuss engagement details.

Before Lady Blackwood could begin, Asher spoke. "Now that we're all here, there's something that needs addressing."

All eyes turned to him.

"Grace," his voice was cold. "Apologize to Gabriella."

Grace's eyes widened, her lips trembling.

"Asher!" Lady Blackwood's tone was disapproving.

Ignoring her, Asher fixed Grace with a penetrating stare. "I said apologize. Did you not hear me?"

Lady Blackwood looked bewildered. "What's happening?"

"Tell everyone about the incident at the riding grounds," Asher said, his voice icy.

Grace's face paled as she looked pleadingly toward Lady Blackwood. "Grandmother..."

"Asher, Grace has already explained that incident to me," the elderly woman said. "It was a misunderstanding. Don't be harsh with her."

Gabriella's lips twitched slightly, but she remained silent.

Randolph and Victoria exchanged confused glances. "Why does Grace need to apologize?" Randolph whispered to Gabriella. "What happened?"

"Let's see what she says," Gabriella replied evenly.

Asher's patience was wearing thin. "Grace Bennett, tell everyone exactly what happened that day. If you hide anything, I'll tell them myself."