21. Derek’s Destiny

DESTINY

When I realized we were pulling up to the airport, my eyes darted around, trying to make sense of our surroundings. This wasn’t the main terminal with its bustling crowds and long lines; this was different—quieter, exclusive. I peered out the window and saw rows of sleek, smaller planes lined up like luxury cars at an exclusive dealership, their polished surfaces gleaming in the sun. My heartbeat quickened, each beat thudding in my chest.

I glanced over at Derek, searching his face for answers, but all I found was that secretive smile—the one that always meant he was up to something.

“Derek, what’s going on?” I asked as the SUV rolled to a stop. My voice wavered between confusion and the flutter of nerves. Derek never did anything small, and this felt like a big deal.

He was out of the car in an instant, coming around to open my door with an easy confidence that made my stomach flip.

“Come on, Princess,” he said, extending his hand, his smile widening. “I’ve got something to show you.”

I slipped my hand into Derek’s, his grip firm and reassuring as I stepped out of the car, the click of my heels echoing against the pavement. But the sound was drowned out by the sight that stole my breath—the private jet parked right in front of us, door open, steps lowered, gleaming under the sun like it was waiting just for us. It was pristine, every inch of it immaculate and sleek, like something out of a fantasy I never dared to dream. But what really made my heart stop was the name scripted elegantly along the side: Lady Destiny.

My mouth fell open, my breath caught in my throat as I stared at the jet, my mind spinning, trying to make sense of this moment. It felt surreal, like I’d walked straight into a scene I wasn’t prepared for, a life that felt too big and too extraordinary to be mine. Words failed me, my thoughts scrambling in a mess of disbelief and awe as I stood there, wide-eyed and speechless.

“Is this—?” I started, but my voice cracked, and I couldn’t even finish the question.

I looked at Derek, my heart thundering in my chest, disbelief clawing at every corner of my mind. “Derek... is this your plane?” I managed to blurt out, my voice shaky and almost breathless. “Do you have a whole damn plane?”

His grin stretched wider, a mix of pride and mischief lighting up his eyes as he pulled me closer, his fingers lacing with mine, grounding me in this surreal reality. “Yeah,” he said, his tone casual, like he wasn’t dropping the most insane bombshell of my life. “Correction—we have a plane.”

“We?” I repeated, blinking rapidly, trying to process the magnitude of what he was saying. It was like stepping into a dream I never dared to have, a reality that felt too big, too wild to be mine. “Since when do we have a plane?”

Derek paused halfway up the steps, turning back to look at me, his silhouette bold and striking against the glossy white of the jet. The sun framed him perfectly, like he was the star of some epic movie that I was just realizing I had a role in.

“I got this years ago, Des,” he said, his voice low and steady, each word soaked in a kind of quiet intensity that sent shivers down my spine. “I told you—it didn’t matter how far apart we were. You always had me. Everything I’ve been building, every move I’ve made... it’s been for us.”

I stood at the bottom of the steps, staring up at Derek, my heart pounding and my mind spinning. Every memory, every heartache faded away in the face of this moment—him standing there, proving just how deep his love ran. A private jet, with my name on it, like it was nothing. Derek had done some wild things before, but this? This was on a whole other level.

“You’re serious?” I stepped up beside him, my eyes still fixed on the jet, its pristine surface reflecting the afternoon sun. “This is really happening?”

His smile softened, losing its usual mischief and turning into something deeper, something that hit me right in the chest. “Always serious about you, Destiny. Always.”

I bit my lip, torn between the thrill of the moment and the nagging voice of practicality. “Derek, we can’t just go on a trip. I didn’t pack anything, and the Jubilee is tomorrow.”

He just shook his head, taking my hand and giving it a reassuring squeeze. “Destiny, trust me. Relax. I got you. I always got you.”

With his hand still in mine, we climbed the rest of the steps, greeted by the uniformed staff who stood ready, their polished smiles welcoming us aboard. The interior was just as stunning as the outside—plush leather seats, polished wood accents, and more space than I ever thought I’d see on a plane. My breath hitched, excitement bubbling up, unstoppable.

Whatever Derek had up his sleeve, I could feel it in my bones—this was going to be one hell of a ride.

At the top of the steps, I took a deep breath and stepped inside, my eyes sweeping over the jet’s interior, and I felt my breath catch. Cream leather seats so plush they looked like clouds, polished wood paneling reflecting the soft, ambient lighting, and a bar that gleamed with bottles of champagne and whiskey, like something straight out of a dream. It was a scene ripped from a music video, the kind of luxury that felt surreal, but it was all right here, in front of me, waiting.

“Derek…” I whispered, my voice wavering as I tried to take it all in. “This is too much.”

Before I could blink, Derek’s fingers were under my chin, lifting my face until all I could see was him. His eyes were intense, piercing through any uncertainty I had.

“Don’t ever say that again,” he said, his voice low, almost a growl. “I need you to take that phrase out of your mouth.”

I blinked, stunned by the heat in his words, caught between wanting to protest and feeling wrapped in his conviction. “But—”

“Nah,” he cut me off, his grip firm but tender, his gaze unrelenting. “Nothing is too much for you. You deserve everything, Des. Whatever you want, even the things you don’t know you want yet, it’s yours. I told you, I’m gonna give you the world, spoil you rotten, and I don’t wanna hear that ‘all I need is your heart’ shit. You got that already, and now you’re getting everything else. Understand?”

I swallowed hard, his words sinking into me, their weight settling warm and heavy in my chest. “Okay,” I breathed, barely able to find my voice.

His expression softened, just enough to let me see the love behind his intensity, the smile playing at his lips hinting at pride and determination. “Good. Now let’s enjoy this, yeah? ‘Cause this is how you’ll be traveling from now on—on our plane.”

“Our plane,” I repeated, the words foreign yet thrilling as they rolled off my tongue, settling deep inside me with a warmth I hadn’t expected. “Okay.” I nodded, my mind still trying to keep up with the reality Derek was laying at my feet, but something told me to just let go and enjoy the ride.

He leaned in closer, his lips brushing my forehead in a kiss that felt like both a promise and a challenge, warm and lingering.

“That’s my girl,” he murmured, his voice low and rough, his breath warm against my ear. “Let’s make some memories.”

Thirty minutes after takeoff, Derek led me into the small but lavish bedroom at the back of the jet, all plush pillows and soft lighting, like a secret hideaway in the sky. We slipped under the covers, his body curling around mine, his arms wrapped around me like a shield. He held my hands, our fingers tangled together, as if letting go would mean losing me all over again.

“What you thinking about, Des?” he asked, his voice deep and smooth, a gentle rumble that vibrated against my back.

I stared out the window, watching the clouds blur past us. “It’s been a whirlwind, me and you, these last few weeks. If you asked me at the start of this year if I’d ever see you again, let alone be in a relationship with you, I’d have laughed in your face. I would’ve never seen this coming.” My voice was soft, laced with disbelief.

He let out a low growl, tightening his hold like he was trying to fuse our bodies together. “Once we got back in each other’s orbit, it was a wrap,” he chuckled, the sound rich and warm, vibrating against my skin.

I couldn’t help but smile, feeling that old familiar pull between us, the one that never seemed to fade no matter how much time passed.

“I know…you were just supposed to check if I still tasted like a milkshake, and now look at us.” The words spilled out, bringing the tension down a notch, letting a shared laugh escape us both, light and real.

Derek’s laughter echoed softly in my ear, and for a moment, everything felt simple, like we were just us again, without the fame, without the complications. Just two kids from Juniper who were madly in love. But then his voice turned serious, the weight of his words pressing against my heart.

“Us being apart…it’s unnatural, Princess. Like I was walking around with a piece of me missing”, he explained.

His confession hung heavy in the air, and I felt the truth of it settling in my bones. I turned my head, catching his gaze, those dark, intense eyes that had always seen right through me.

“It’s always been you, Derek,” I whispered, my voice barely above a breath, but I knew he heard it, knew he felt it just as deeply as I did.

He kissed the side of my neck, slow and lingering, as if to seal the promise we’d made without saying a word.

“And it’ll always be us,” he murmured against my skin, his voice thick with a determination that made my heart ache in the best way. “Forever, Des. I’m not letting go this time.”

I closed my eyes, sinking into the warmth of him, feeling every beat of his heart against my back. There was no space left between us, no room for doubt. It was just me and him, lost in the sky, making memories we’d never forget.

“More than anything else, I just hope you know how badly I want this, how badly I want you. Need you. Nobody but you,” Derek’s voice was rough, almost desperate, every word wrapped in that raw emotion that always pulled me under.

I swallowed hard, feeling the sting of tears threatening to spill over, but I fought them back, blinking rapidly. The weight of his words hung between us, heavy and undeniable.

“I see that now,” I finally admitted, my voice soft but steady. “But tell me, Derek…what really made you come back for me?”

He took a deep breath, his chest rising and falling like he was trying to catch the right words, but I could feel the tension radiating off him. “I told you, I stayed away as long as I could, Des. It was hell. Every day felt like I was suffocating, like I was dying a slow death, watching the years pass by without you. I didn’t want to disrupt your life, not when I knew I still wasn’t shit. I had to get myself together, become the man you deserve—the kind of man with the patience and the grit to fight for you, no matter what it took.”

His voice broke, and I felt his pain, his regret, echoing in the small space between us. “I knew coming back meant going to war if I had to. I wasn’t leaving Juniper without you, Des. I was dead serious when I told you that at the community center. I would’ve dropped to my knees, begged, groveled at your feet if that’s what it took. I wasn’t playing games.”

I let out a shaky laugh, my heart aching in a way that was both beautiful and heartbreaking.

“Damn, I made it too easy for you,” I joked, grateful he couldn’t see my face, grateful I didn’t have to look into those eyes that always knew me too well.

He chuckled, his hand squeezing mine tighter. “Easier than I thought but still not easy. I’ve got a lot more work to do, and I’m gonna put it in every day, Des. I’ll fight for you, for us, every damn day. This isn’t just words. It’s my promise.”

I turned to him then, the intensity in his eyes locking with mine, and I felt that familiar pull, that magnetic force that had never let us truly stay apart. He wasn’t just saying this—he meant it, with everything he was.

“You don’t have to fight, Derek,” I whispered, my voice trembling as I cradled his face between my hands, my thumbs tracing the familiar lines of his jaw, feeling the warmth of his smooth caramel skin beneath my touch. I took in every detail of him, the sharp cut of his cheekbones, the deep dimples that only showed when he was truly at ease, the tattoos creeping up his neck that told the story of the boy he was and the man he’d become. “Just keep being like this. This version of you…this is my dream. You make me feel so loved, Derek. Like, truly loved.”

He pulled me closer, his forehead resting against mine, and for a moment, it felt like the world had shrunk down to just the two of us, suspended in this fragile, perfect bubble. He leaned in, his lips brushing against the tip of my nose—a gesture so soft, it made my heart ache.

“I can keep doing that,” he murmured, his voice low and steady, laced with a kind of promise that sank deep into my bones. “I can keep loving you, Princess. Every day, in every way.” He smiled, but there was something behind it—something I couldn’t quite put my finger on. It was like he was holding back, like he was carrying a weight he hadn’t let me see yet.

I searched his eyes, desperate to find some hidden truth, some reassurance buried beneath his words. But all I saw was him—the man who fought his way back into my life, who held me like I was the only thing that mattered. The man who, no matter how much time passed, always found his way back to me.

“This feeling won’t wear off, right?” I asked, my voice wavering as I forced the question out, exposing a fear I hadn’t dared to voice.

“Des—”

“I’m serious,” I interrupted, swallowing hard. “What if you just love the idea of me? What if it’s just the nostalgia, what we used to be?”

He shook his head, eyes locked on mine, steady and unyielding. “Nah, Destiny. This right here? It’s fate. God didn’t just make you; He made you for me, and me for you. Look how much time passed, and look at where we are now, in just a few weeks. This isn’t some passing thing; this is forever. I need you, I want you, and I love you more today than I ever did back then. And in ten, twenty years? That love is only gonna grow.” He paused, his voice dropping, filled with that fierce sincerity that always cut straight through me. “You think there’s a day coming when you won’t love me?”

I shook my head, my voice trembling as the truth spilled out. “I’ve never known a day in my life where I didn’t love you, Derek.”

In an instant, his hands were on me, gripping my ass possessively, pulling me flush against him like he needed me as close as possible. “And you never will,” he growled, his voice low and raw, filled with a promise that felt like a vow.

The air between us crackled, and before I knew it, his lips crashed into mine, hungry and desperate, like he was sealing the words he’d just spoken. His kiss was all heat and need, and I was powerless against it, my hands moving on their own as they reached into his pants, freeing him with a boldness that surprised even me.

I gasped as he deepened the kiss, his hands roaming my body like he was trying to claim every inch of me. I melted into him, losing myself in the intensity of it all, the feel of his skin, the sound of his breath, the way he touched me like he’d never let me go. It was fierce, unrestrained, and it felt like all the years, all the distance, all the pain we’d ever known were finally burning away between us.

Before I knew it, my lips were on him, sliding over his length, my tongue tracing every ridge and vein as if I’d been starved of him—and I had. The taste of him, the way he groaned deep and rough, was pure addiction. His fingers tangled tight in my hair, his other hand braced against the bed, his hips moving in a rhythm that was raw and desperate, pulling every last drop of control from him.

“Destiny,” he moaned, my name spilling out in a way that was ragged, almost a plea, and it sent a rush of power through me, the kind that made my toes curl and my skin tingle. There was something about hearing him come undone that way, so vulnerable, so lost to me, that made me feel like I owned him in that moment.

His hips thrust forward, more frantic now, his grip tightening as he edged closer to losing himself. And just when he was on the brink, I pulled back, letting his length slip free, watching the flash of frustration and need burn in his eyes.

“Not yet,” I whispered, my tone laced with mischief as I licked my lips, savoring the taste of him.

“Damn, you pulling a me on me,” he chuckled, a strained laugh escaping, but the heat in his eyes never wavered.

I climbed onto his lap, straddling him, feeling his hardness press against me, insistent and ready. His hands gripped my hips, firm and possessive, guiding me down onto him in one smooth, claiming motion once I pushed my panties to the side. I gasped as he filled me, the shock of pleasure jolting through my spine, stealing my breath. My fingers dug into his shoulders, clinging to him as he thrust up into me, each stroke deep and deliberate, like he was staking his claim, marking me as his own.

“Damn, Princess,” he grunted, his voice gravelly and raw with desire. “You look so beautiful taking all this dick.”

“Uh huh,” I managed to moan, barely coherent, the words tumbling out between gasps as he stretched me, filled every inch of me.

He smirked, that wicked glint in his eyes as he watched me unravel. “I think you like fucking on our plane. Might have to take you up here more often.”

I tried to laugh, but it came out a shaky, breathless sound, my body already quivering. I guided his hands down to my ass, a silent plea I couldn’t quite put into words, hoping he’d understand the unspoken need simmering beneath the surface. Being with Derek had unlocked something in me, a wild freedom I hadn’t known I craved, yet even now, there were parts of me I kept guarded, desires that lingered in the shadows, waiting to be found.

“No, Princess,” he said, his tone steady, commanding. “You have to use your words. Tell Daddy what you want.”

His hand moved up, sliding around my neck, his thumb pressing against my pulse in that way that always made my heart race.

I closed my eyes, trying to summon the courage to say what I needed, what I wanted. But the vulnerability of asking, of admitting that I needed more, had me caught up, stuck in my own head.

“Nope, eyes on me,” he said, his grip on my neck gently firm, pulling my gaze back to him. His eyes were intense, searching mine with an unwavering heat that left no room for doubt. “What do you need Daddy to do for you?”

“Spank me,” I finally managed to whisper, my voice barely audible but carrying all the weight of my need. The words felt like a release, a step into the unknown, a boundary crossed.

Derek’s lips curled into a slow, wicked grin, satisfaction gleaming in his eyes.

“You want The Crew to hear you?” he asked, his voice dropping lower, teasing but challenging.

“I don’t care,” I breathed out, my voice edged with desperation, with longing. I was tired of holding back. I wanted him to know it all.

Derek's voice softened as he spoke, his hand coming down with a firm but measured touch that sent a jolt of heat through me. “If that’s what my Princess wants, that’s what she gets, right?”

“Yes!” I gasped, my breath catching in my throat.

He didn’t rush, didn’t hurry to the next moment. Instead, his hand rubbed gentle circles over the spot, soothing the sting, making me feel cherished even in the midst of something so intense.

“I never tell you no, right?” His voice was like a low hum, a promise that wrapped around me like a warm blanket.

Then, his hand came down again, a sharp smack, firm but careful, and I couldn’t hold back the moan that spilled from my lips.

“No,” I managed to whisper, the word almost a sigh, filled with a mixture of need and trust.

He grinned, that familiar smile that made me feel like I was the center of his universe. “That’s right,” he murmured, his hand continuing its rhythm—firm, then soft, pushing and pulling me into a dance that only we knew the steps to.

“Derek—” I started, my voice barely more than a whisper, caught between a breath and a plea.

“Whatever you want, you tell me,” he said, his voice low and filled with that steady certainty that always wrapped around me like a promise. “I’ll give it to you, in and out of the bedroom. Whatever you need, it’s yours.”

“Yes,” I breathed, my heart pounding, feeling the weight of his words settle deep within me. I knew he meant it; with Derek, there were no half-measures, no empty promises.

He leaned in closer, his lips brushing against my ear, sending shivers down my spine. “I’m gonna make every fantasy come true for you,” he continued, his voice rough with desire but also tender, like he was carving the words into my soul. “Whatever you want, you tell me.”

My breath hitched at the intensity in his eyes, at the way he looked at me like I was his whole world. And in that moment, I knew that he meant it. He’d move mountains, change the course of rivers, just to see me happy. And that kind of love—wild, deep, and all-consuming—was something I never knew I could have.

I didn’t have the chance to say more before he flipped me over in one swift move, pinning me beneath him, his weight pressing me into the soft sheets. His eyes were all hunger, wild and feral, and he didn’t hold back. He drove into me with a force that stole my breath, hard and deep, each thrust pushing me closer to that edge where everything blurred and only pleasure remained.

“Shit, Derek,” I managed to choke out between moans, my body tightening around him, lost in the way he fucked me like a man possessed.

I couldn’t think, couldn’t breathe, just feel—the overwhelming heat of him, the way his muscles flexed under my fingers, his growls vibrating against my skin. He didn’t let up, not for a second. His pace was relentless, the rhythm of his hips punishing in the best way.

The pleasure built higher, my body trembling beneath him, every nerve alight with sensation. And then I shattered. My vision went white, my back arched off the bed, and I screamed his name, my voice breaking with the intensity of it all.

I must’ve blacked out because when I came to, my body was still trembling, my skin slick with sweat. Derek was there, his touch gentle now, his voice low and soothing as he shook me awake.

“Princess,” he murmured, his lips brushing against my ear, “we gotta get strapped in, we’re about to land,” he said, and I couldn’t help but laugh softly, even through the haze.

Derek’s face hovered above mine, his grin lazy and satisfied, his fingers brushing tenderly against my cheek. It took a moment for his words to sink in, for reality to break through the haze of pleasure.

“Landing?” I mumbled, my voice hoarse, barely more than a whisper. I could still feel him, the phantom of his touch lingering in every inch of me. My legs felt like jelly, my head still spinning from the intensity of it all.

“Yeah, baby.” He chuckled, his eyes filled with amusement. “You were out for a while. Thought I’d have to carry you to the seat.”

I groaned, my body still tingling, and managed to push myself up, shaky but determined. “You really put me out like that?”

“Welcome to The Mile High Club,” he teased, his grin turning wicked as he helped me up, his hands steadying me as I stumbled. “But we gotta buckle up, Princess. We’ve got more surprises waiting.”

I glanced out the window, noticing the coastline stretching out beneath us, the sparkling blue of the ocean meeting the sandy beaches. My breath caught in my throat. “Where are we?”

“You’ll see,” Derek said, his voice smooth and full of that familiar mischief that always made my heart race. He guided me back to the main cabin, his hand firm on the small of my back, reminding me of his presence, his control.

I settled into the seat, still feeling the lingering warmth of his touch. He fastened my seatbelt for me, his fingers lingering just a second longer than necessary, his eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that sent another wave of heat through me.

“Ready?” he asked, his voice low, almost a growl.

I nodded, breathless, anticipation humming in my veins. “Ready.”

He smirked, his hand squeezing mine. “Good. Because you’re about to see a whole new world, Princess. Our world.”

We were in California, and the scenery was like something out of a dream. As we weaved through the winding hills with the vast, glittering ocean on one side, I felt like a kid in a candy store. My face was practically glued to the window, my eyes drinking in every inch of the breathtaking landscape—the sun-drenched cliffs, the waves crashing against the shore, and the endless stretch of blue sky above us.

The salty ocean breeze carried through the open car windows, tousling my hair and filling the car with that unmistakable coastal scent. I couldn’t get enough of it. It was like every twist and turn of the road revealed a new slice of paradise. Derek glanced over at me occasionally, that knowing smile on his lips, clearly amused by my awe as he texted on his work phone.

As we pulled up to a mansion straight off of Selling Sunset, my eyes couldn’t take in all the details fast enough. The beach house was a modern masterpiece, a blend of contemporary architecture and coastal elegance. The sleek white walls gleamed under the sun, contrasting beautifully with the deep blue of the ocean behind it. The house sprawled across the cliffside, with sharp, clean lines and multiple levels that cascaded down toward the beach like a series of luxurious terraces.

Massive floor-to-ceiling glass windows wrapped around the structure, reflecting the sunlight and the endless expanse of sky. From where I stood, I could see straight through the house to the sparkling water beyond, giving the illusion that the mansion itself was floating above the sea. The balconies jutted out dramatically, almost daring gravity, with glass railings that offered unobstructed views of the crashing waves below.

“Derek,” I whispered, barely able to contain my excitement as I stepped out of the car once the chauffer opened the door for me. “This place is... wow.”

“Come inside, I got something for you,” Derek said, his hand guiding me through the doorway.

The entrance was equally grand—a wide, polished stone pathway flanked by meticulously manicured greenery, leading up to a towering front door made of dark, rich wood. The door looked like it could belong to an art gallery, standing in stark contrast to the modern façade and hinting at the elegance within.

As we made our way inside, I could hear the rhythmic crash of waves amplified by the open, airy layout of the home. The interior was a vision of understated luxury—an open-concept living area with soaring ceilings, polished concrete floors, and a color palette of soft creams, beiges, and ocean blues that seemed to pull the outside in. There were textured accent walls, pieces of driftwood art, and a sprawling sectional sofa that looked like it could swallow you whole in comfort.

A sleek, modern kitchen was tucked to one side, complete with state-of-the-art appliances, a marble island, and pendant lights that hung like sculptures. A spiral staircase wrapped around a massive, suspended art piece in the center of the room, leading to the second floor where glass walkways connected different parts of the house, each room more secluded and private than the last.

Everything in this place screamed exclusivity, from the private access to a secluded stretch of sandy beach to the hidden nooks and outdoor living spaces designed for intimate moments or entertaining. And all the while, that constant, soothing soundtrack of the ocean played in the background, mingling with the soft rustle of the breeze through the open windows. This wasn’t just a house—it was an experience, a world unto itself where time seemed to stand still.

I nearly lost my breath when we walked into a room downstairs that looked like something out of a five-star luxury resort. The space was a sanctuary of tranquility—walls wrapped in soft, muted tones, the dim, ambient lighting casting a golden glow over everything. The floors were polished marble, and a gentle waterfall trickled down one wall, creating a soothing, melodic hum that filled the room. Plush loungers were lined with crisp white towels, ready for indulgence. The air was thick with the calming scent of eucalyptus and lavender, mixed with a hint of fresh ocean breeze that seemed to drift in from somewhere beyond.

Three attendants stood at the ready, their faces warm and inviting, dressed in immaculate uniforms that screamed elegance and professionalism. They looked like they’d been waiting for this exact moment, their postures poised and hands folded, their smiles steady but genuine.

“Derek?” I breathed out, my voice barely a whisper, caught between disbelief and awe, trying to reconcile the scene before me.

He just grinned, his eyes dancing with that mix of pride and mischief that always made my heart race.

“Spa day for Day of Destiny,” he said smoothly, his voice rich with satisfaction. “Massage, facial, mani, and pedi. The works for my baby,” he added, stepping closer and taking my hands in his, his thumb caressing the back of my knuckles.

I could only shake my head, still reeling from the shock. “I can’t believe this,” I murmured, my words slipping out before I could even think. I was standing in the middle of a dream I didn’t even know I had.

Derek tilted my chin up with his finger, his eyes locking onto mine with that intense focus that made me feel like I was the only person in the world. His thumb brushed tenderly across my bottom lip, sending a shiver down my spine.

“Believe it,” he whispered, his voice steady and commanding, but somehow soft enough to settle the flurry of emotions swirling inside me. “I know it feels like a lot today, like maybe too much, but remember nothing is too much for you, Princess. Not ever. Soon enough, this will feel normal—regular.”

I swallowed hard, my heart swelling with a mix of overwhelming gratitude and disbelief.

“This will never feel regular,” I whispered back, my voice thick with emotion.

It wasn’t just the luxury—it was the intention behind it, the care he was pouring into every detail for me.

He chuckled, a deep, playful sound that reverberated through the room, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips.

“Well, let’s just test that theory,” he teased, his tone lighter now, as if daring me to get used to this new reality.

He leaned in closer, his breath warm against my skin, and planted a soft kiss on the tip of my nose, lingering just long enough to make me smile.

“I’ll be back for you when you’re done, aight?” he said, pulling back but not before giving my hands one last squeeze.

His eyes lingered on mine for a moment, filled with that quiet intensity that always made me feel safe, loved. “Enjoy this, Des. It’s all for you,” he whispered.

“Okay,” I breathed, still dazed by everything that was happening.

He turned to the women waiting, his voice taking on a protective tone. “Take care of my Princess,” he instructed before stepping out.

As the door closed behind him, I took a deep breath and let myself be led further into the room.

Holy shit. Was this real life?

I took a deep breath, allowing myself to finally relax as the spa team guided me to a plush lounger. The room felt like a cocoon of calm—the kind of place where the world outside stopped existing. I sank into the soft cushions, feeling the tension start to melt away from my shoulders. One of the women, a serene-looking woman with a kind smile, began with a gentle scalp massage, her fingers expertly working through my hair, releasing knots I hadn’t even realized were there.

“This is just the beginning, Ms. Destiny,” she said in a soothing voice. “We’re going to make sure you leave here feeling like a new person.”

I smiled and closed my eyes, letting myself drift in the moment. As the massage continued, I could feel the stress of the past few days dissolving bit by bit. It was like all the tension and chaos I’d been carrying melted under her touch. Derek had really gone all out for me. The thought of him doing all of this, wanting to make me feel special, almost brought tears to my eyes again.

After the scalp massage, she moved down to my shoulders, working out the knots with just the right amount of pressure. I let out a soft moan of relief, feeling my body surrender to the relaxation. The knots that had been building up from planning the Jubilee, the late nights, and the stress of trying to balance everything seemed to unravel with every stroke.

Next, they guided me over to a massage table where another spa therapist began a deep tissue massage. She worked her magic, kneading into muscles I hadn’t even known were tense. My back, my legs, my arms—everything felt like it was being reset, like I was letting go of every worry I’d been holding onto. I sighed deeply, my body feeling lighter with every movement of her hands.

“How’s the pressure?” she asked, her tone professional yet warm.

“Perfect,” I murmured, barely able to form coherent thoughts with how relaxed I was becoming. I could feel myself getting lost in the rhythm of her movements, the warmth of the room, the soft hum of calming music in the background.

By the time she was finished, I felt like I was floating. They led me to a soft chair for my facial and mani-pedi. A third woman with a friendly smile and gentle hands began working on my face, applying different creams and serums that smelled like lavender and rose. The coolness of the mask she applied was like a breath of fresh air on my skin, calming and invigorating all at once. She massaged the creams in with delicate fingers, the tension in my forehead and jaw dissipating like mist in the morning sun.

“You have beautiful skin,” she said as she worked, her voice barely above a whisper. “This is just going to make it glow even more.”

I smiled, feeling more at ease than I had in days. “Thank you,” I whispered back, letting myself sink deeper into the chair.

After the facial, another woman took over for the mani-pedi. She was meticulous, filing and shaping my nails, then applying a soft blush pink polish that looked almost ethereal. I watched her work, her concentration steady, and felt a sense of calm wash over me. The world outside the spa room seemed a million miles away, and for the first time in what felt like forever, I wasn’t worried about anything. Not the Jubilee, not Derek’s plans, not even my own doubts.

I was simply here, being pampered, cared for in a way that made me feel like I was worth every bit of it.

As she massaged my feet, I couldn’t help but chuckle softly, thinking about how Derek had orchestrated all of this. He knew me so well—knew exactly what I needed even when I didn’t know it myself. He was always pushing me out of my comfort zone, forcing me to see myself in ways I wasn’t used to. And right now, in this moment, I was grateful for it. Grateful for him.

The treatments seemed to last forever and yet not long enough. When they finally finished, I felt like I was glowing from the inside out. My skin felt fresh, my body light, my mind at ease.

“Would you like a glass of champagne to end the session?” one of the women asked, her voice almost melodic.

I nodded, feeling a wave of warmth spread through me. “That sounds perfect,” I replied.

As I sipped on the champagne, bubbles dancing on my tongue, I felt something I hadn’t in a long time—like I was genuinely at peace. And for once, I allowed myself to just be in this moment, to soak in all the love and care that Derek had poured into making this day special for me.

I couldn’t help but think, maybe this was a new chapter for us—a chapter where I let myself be taken care of, where I let myself believe that I deserved it.

One of the women came in, wheeling a rack with three dresses that looked like they belonged on some red carpet, not here in this room with me, still wrapped up in my spa robe. My jaw almost hit the floor.

“Mr. Harris requests that you choose one of these dresses to get dressed in,” she said with a smile, like this was the most normal thing in the world. “And someone will be here shortly to do your hair and makeup.”

“Excuse me? What?” I stuttered, eyes wide. Before I could even process what was happening, two women breezed in, clearly the hair and makeup person, followed by a third. I could hardly keep up.

I turned my attention to the dresses, reaching out to touch them. The fabric felt like butter under my fingers, smooth and delicate. These were no off-the-rack dresses—each one screamed money. Real money. The kind you don’t even see prices for in stores, just a discreet little tag that says “ask associate for details.”

One was a deep emerald green, fitted with a thigh-high slit and delicate lace detailing on the bodice. The second was a classic black gown, sleek and sophisticated, with a plunging neckline and a back that dipped dangerously low. The third was a soft blush color, flowing and ethereal, with layers that would move beautifully in the breeze. Each one felt like a promise of something grand, something unforgettable.

I turned to the woman who had brought them in, still stunned. “What’s all this for?”

“Mr. Harris wanted you to feel your best,” she replied, her smile warm but professional. “He said you’d know which one to choose.”

I couldn’t help but chuckle softly, shaking my head in disbelief. Derek was always one step ahead. I had no idea what he was planning next, but he wasn’t letting up on these surprises. It was almost overwhelming, but in the best way. The woman I assumed was the hairstylist approached with a chair, gesturing for me to sit.

“I’m here to give you a look that’ll match whichever dress you choose,” she said with a wink. “He’s got good taste, that man of yours.”

I bit my lip, trying to suppress a smile. “Yeah, he does.”

I sat down, my eyes flicking back to the dresses. Each one seemed to whisper something different—something bold, something classic, something romantic. I took a deep breath, my fingers lingering on the blush-colored gown. The softness of it called to me, a subtle elegance that felt right. I wanted to feel free, light, like I could dance on air.

“This one,” I said finally, pointing to the blush dress. “I’ll wear this one.”

The hairstylist nodded, her hands already moving to unpin my hair. “Good choice. It’ll look stunning on you.”

As she worked, I let myself relax again, closing my eyes as she expertly styled my hair. She twisted it into a loose, romantic updo, leaving a few tendrils to frame my face. It was soft, effortless, but with just the right touch of glam. She then moved on to my makeup, creating a look that was natural yet captivating—soft pinks and golds that made my skin glow.

“Perfect,” she said, stepping back to admire her work. “You’re going to knock his socks off.”

I laughed softly. “I hope so.”

After they helped me into the dress, I stood in front of the full-length mirror, barely recognizing the woman staring back at me. The blush dress hugged my curves just right, flowing out around my legs like a soft whisper. The fabric shimmered in the light, giving me an ethereal glow. The hair, the makeup—it all came together, and I felt... beautiful. No, more than that. I felt powerful, like I was stepping into a version of myself that I’d only glimpsed in my dreams.

One of the women handed me a pair of delicate nude heels. “These should complete the look.”

I slipped them on, turning to look at myself from different angles. My heart swelled with excitement, and I couldn’t wait to see Derek’s reaction. He had done all of this for me, pulled out every stop just to make me feel special.

A soft knock came at the door, and the masseuse moved to answer it. She spoke to someone on the other side, then turned back to me with a warm smile.

“Time for your next step,” she said, her eyes twinkling like she was in on some big secret.

I followed her to the door and found one of Derek’s security guards waiting there. He gave me a quick nod and an even quicker smile before leading me to an elevator tucked away behind a corner. I kept my mouth shut, too overwhelmed to ask why Derek hadn’t come to get me like he said he would. He pressed a button, gave me a little wave, and I found myself alone as the doors closed.

An elevator. In a house. The very idea seemed absurd, like something out of a movie or the life of someone far removed from my own reality. My breathing hitched, panic creeping in as the walls of the elevator felt like they were closing in on me. What kind of house even has an elevator? My heart pounded louder with every passing second, my breaths coming quicker, shorter, as I tried to ground myself. But then, with a soft chime, the elevator doors slid open—and suddenly, my breath caught for an entirely different reason.

The sight that greeted me took my breath away. I stepped out onto a balcony that seemed to float above the ocean, bathed in the soft, golden hues of the setting sun. Everywhere I looked, there were white peonies—dozens, no, hundreds of them. Cascading from tall, elegant vases, lining the intricate wrought-iron railings, covering every surface like a blanket of soft, delicate snow. The petals spilled onto the floor, a carpet of pure white against the deep, rich wood beneath my feet, and as I stepped forward, they crunched softly under my shoes. The scent of them, sweet and fresh, filled the air, mixing with the saltiness of the ocean breeze.

I could hardly believe my eyes. It looked like a dreamscape, something plucked right out of a fantasy. The setting sun painted the sky in shades of amber and pink, the light catching on the waves crashing against the rocks below, making the ocean look like it was shimmering with molten gold. I felt like I’d stepped into another world, a more beautiful one, where time had stopped just for us.

And then, in the middle of it all, like the centerpiece of this impossibly perfect moment, was Derek. He stood there, framed by the colors of the sunset, wearing a crisp, casual white suit that looked like it had been made just for him. The way the fabric clung to his broad shoulders and tapered down his lean frame made him look effortlessly powerful, like he belonged to this world of impossible beauty and grandeur. His eyes found mine immediately, and the look on his face—it was like he’d been waiting for this moment his whole life.

“Princess...” he breathed, the word coming out almost like a prayer. His eyes traveled over me, slow and deliberate, as if he was seeing me for the first time, or maybe like he was trying to memorize every detail, to hold this moment in his mind forever. There was a kind of wonder in his gaze, a softness that contrasted sharply with his usual confidence. He looked at me like I was something rare, something fragile and precious, like he couldn’t quite believe that I was his.

It was overwhelming. I felt a rush of emotions swell up in me—joy, disbelief, love so intense it almost hurt. In that moment, with the world so perfect around us, I could see it all so clearly—how much he adored me. It was all there in his eyes, laid bare and unguarded. And for a second, I couldn’t breathe.

He reached out, his hand steady, like he was the only solid thing in a world spinning too fast. It took me a second, but I finally got the signal to get off the damn elevator, my brain catching up with my heart. I slid my hand into his, and he pulled me in, wrapping me up in that way that made me feel like I was his anchor, like he needed me close to keep his own balance. His grip was firm, almost desperate, like if he let go, I might vanish into thin air. But then, just as quickly, he eased back, creating a little space between us, like he was getting ready for something big—something that needed room to breathe.

“Baby...” I started, my voice barely more than a whisper, but he was already ahead of me.

“You remember when I said if I ever made it, I’d put you on a track with me one day, but I had to teach you how to rap first?” he asked, that familiar, playful grin spreading across his face. The kind of grin that always promised trouble. Instantly, the memory rushed back, hitting me like a wave. Senior year of high school—Derek, wild-eyed and excited, always dreaming big, convinced I had some hidden talent for spitting bars.

“Yeah,” I replied, a nervous laugh bubbling up from my chest. My heart was pounding now, thrumming like one of his beats, unsure where he was taking this. “I remember.”

“You remember the words?” he pressed, his eyes locked onto mine, searching, intense. He wasn’t just asking for fun; he needed to know I still had that moment stored somewhere in my mind, that it still mattered.

“I was a trash rapper, Derek,” I chuckled, trying to brush it off, feeling that old insecurity creeping up. But he wasn’t having it. His eyes twinkled, that look that said he wasn’t going to let me wriggle out of this one.

He laughed too, biting his lip in that way that always made my heart stutter. “But do you remember it?”

I dug deep, pulling at the tangled threads of those late afternoons in his room, me perched on his bed with a notebook in hand, him at his makeshift studio setup, the way his face lit up every time I got a line out without stumbling. His encouragement, his insistence that I could do it, even when I felt ridiculous.

I closed my eyes, feeling a smile tug at my lips as I tried to remember the words he’d made me come up with. It was silly, cheesy as hell, but the beat he’d created for me was still pounding in the back of my mind, and I could see him in my memory—grinning from ear to ear, hyping me up like I was about to take over the charts.

I cleared my throat, my voice starting out a bit shaky, but with each line, the rhythm settled back in my bones, the confidence I used to feel around him bubbling back up:

“Uh, uh, I got a love so deep, it’s hard to explain,
Derek got me smiling even when there’s rain.
Heart so full, yeah, it’s bursting at the seams,
Rocking with my baby, we’re a real-life dream.

He’s got that swag, got that flow, got that fire,
Ain’t nobody else that I could ever desire.
From the block to the top, we gon’ do this thing,
And one day, he’ll put a diamond on it in Malibu—bling, bling.”

I finished the last line, my voice trailing off as a half-embarrassed laugh bubbled up in my chest. I could feel the heat creeping up my neck, spreading like wildfire across my cheeks. I dared a glance at Derek, and there it was—that wide, boyish grin that always made me feel like I was falling, his eyes sparkling with pride and a hint of mischief that never failed to get under my skin.

“You still a trash-ass rapper, Princess,” he said, grinning like he’d just won something.

“Fuck you, Derek.” I sucked my teeth, but I couldn’t help the smile tugging at my lips.

“We did that on the way here, but you know I always got more for you,” he shot back, his tone so casual, like we were talking about the weather. His eyes roamed over me with that hungry look that said he was already planning the next round.

I rolled my eyes, trying to keep my cool, but my heart was racing. “You’re impossible.”

“And I hope to keep being impossible for the rest of our lives,” he continued, his voice softening in that way that always turned my knees to jelly.

“Shut up,” I muttered, but I couldn’t help the warmth spreading in my chest, the way his words always cut straight through my defenses.

He cleared his throat, suddenly serious, and my breath hitched. “Well, I couldn’t give you rap skills,” he said, that teasing glint still dancing in his eyes, “but I’m here to give you your diamond ring in Malibu.”

And then, without warning, he dropped to one knee.

My heart stopped. Like, literally stopped. My stomach flipped like it was trying to do somersaults. “Derek… no… you can’t be serious…”

But he was dead serious. The whole world seemed to fade away—the ocean crashing behind us, the sun casting its last golden light over the peonies, the soft rustle of the breeze. It all disappeared, leaving just the two of us in this surreal, breathtaking moment.

“I’ve been listening, Des,” he went on, so calm and steady, like he wasn’t standing at the edge of changing our lives forever. “Every little thing you’ve ever mentioned, every dream, every wish... I’ve got it all memorized.”

My vision blurred with tears as I looked down at him, my heart pounding so hard it felt like it might burst out of my chest. “Derek…” I choked out, my voice barely holding together. And that’s when he reached behind him and pulled out a small red velvet box from his back pocket.

When he opened it, I swear my heart stopped. There it was—the biggest, most stunning diamond ring I’d ever seen, sparkling like a damn galaxy right in front of me. I lost it—let out a scream that tore right through the sunset air, a scream that came from a place deep inside where dreams are born, the kind you’re almost too scared to have.

“Destiny,” he began, his voice thick and trembling with emotion, “I’ve been in love with you since before I even knew what love was supposed to feel like. And you... you’ve loved me even when I didn’t deserve it. When everyone around us said I wasn’t good enough for you, that I’d never be anything, that I’d never be worthy...” His voice cracked, and I saw tears welling in his eyes, his breath hitching.

That was it. I couldn’t hold it together anymore. My knees buckled, and I dropped down beside him, tears streaming down my face, my whole body shaking with this overwhelming mix of joy and love and everything in between. He let out a watery laugh, shaking his head at me.

“Princess, get up—you can’t be down here with me,” he said, his laugh breaking through the tears as he wiped his face, trying to keep it together.

“My bad,” I mumbled, a giggle escaping despite the tears, scrambling back up to my feet like a hot mess. My heart was racing, cheeks soaked, but damn if I wasn’t smiling like a fool who just found the world’s greatest treasure.

Derek took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. “I got ahead of myself last night, telling you how bad I want to start a family with you... and posting that video telling everybody we’re together... but damn, Destiny, I’m just excited as hell about you,” he said, his voice all raw and shaky. “I’m happy, like, really happy for the first time in my grown-ass life, ‘cause you’re back with me. I love you so damn much. I just wanna be with you, up under you... inside you.”

Even in this moment, he had me laughing, even while I was crying. Leave it to Derek to spill his heart out and still throw in something like that.

He drew in another breath, his eyes locking onto mine, his face shifting to that serious, intense look he got when he meant business.

“There’s nothing I want more than to be the man who takes care of you, keeps that smile on your face, gives you a place to rest, be your safe space... ‘cause that’s what you are to me. And I want forever with you. Please, say you’ll marry me, Destiny. Be my wife?”

“Yes!” I shouted, my heart leaping out of my chest as the word flew from my lips, like it had been waiting for this moment all my life.

As soon as the word left my lips, Derek's face lit up like the sun breaking through a storm—pure joy, raw relief. He looked like he'd been holding his breath for a lifetime, and now he could finally exhale. In a heartbeat, he pulled me into him, his arms wrapping around me so tight, like I was his lifeline. I melted into him, my face buried in his neck, breathing him in, letting it all crash over me like waves—this moment, this man, this life we were stepping into. This was real. We were really doing this.

He eased back, just enough to hold my face in his hands, his thumbs brushing away the tears spilling down my cheeks. His eyes searched mine, wide and vulnerable, his voice a soft rasp.

“You sure?” he whispered, his voice trembling like he was terrified to hear anything but yes. “You really wanna marry my crazy ass?”

I laughed, the sound breaking through the tears like a breath of fresh air. I nodded, my hands cupping his face, feeling the warmth of his skin under my palms. “I wouldn’t want it any other way, Derek. It’s always been you. Always.”

He didn’t wait. His lips found mine in a slow, deep kiss, a kiss that felt like a vow, like he was sealing something sacred. I could feel everything in that kiss—every bit of love, every piece of him that had waited, hoped, and fought for us to get to this point. His lips were soft but demanding, his hands holding me like he never wanted to let go, like letting go wasn’t an option. And I didn’t want him to. Not now. Not ever.

When he finally pulled away, his forehead rested against mine, both of us trying to catch our breath, our hearts still pounding in sync.

“I’m gonna make you so happy, Des. I swear it,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion and that fierce determination that had always been there, buried beneath his bravado. “You deserve everything. And I’m gonna spend the rest of my life giving it to you.”

My chest tightened, my heart so full it felt like it could burst. I nodded, tears still streaming, but my smile so wide it hurt. “We’re gonna make each other happy,” I whispered back, my voice steady, sure. “We already are.”

He grinned, that familiar, cocky smile creeping back in, his thumb stroking my bottom lip. “Yeah, we are,” he said, his eyes gleaming with that old mischief. “And now I don’t even have to steal these flowers for you anymore.”

I laughed, the sound bubbling up from deep in my chest, the kind of laugh that comes when everything feels right, like the world’s finally aligned just for you. And in that moment, surrounded by the scent of those white peonies, with Derek’s arms wrapped around me and the ocean roaring behind us, I knew this was it. This was the beginning of forever.

“Baby, you didn’t put the ring on,” I blurted out as the realization hit me, my breath catching.

“Oh, yeah, shit!” Derek laughed, dropping back down to one knee, his smile wide and a little sheepish like he’d gotten too caught up in the moment.

He took my hand again, his fingers steady as he slipped the massive diamond onto my finger. The weight of it, both physical and emotional, settled in, and I couldn’t stop staring. The light caught every facet, sparkling like it held a universe inside.

“20 Carats for my Princess,” he said softly, his voice low and rough with emotion. His lips brushed over my knuckles, his eyes never leaving mine. “You like it?”

“I love it,” I whispered, my voice barely holding together, my eyes locked on that ring like it was the only thing keeping me grounded in this whirlwind. I couldn’t tear my gaze away from it—this was real, this was happening.

Derek watched me for a second, then grinned. “I can’t lie, if I could... I’d marry you today, right here, right now,” he confessed, his voice dropping to a serious, almost hushed tone. “But I know our folks would kill us.”

“Definitely,” I laughed, imagining the chaos if we tried to pull that off.

“And I know you wanna plan your day,” he continued, his grin turning playful, “the next big event for Destiny’s Details... and make sure you charge me full price.”

I couldn’t help it—I threw myself into his arms, the joy bubbling up so fast it spilled over. He caught me with ease, swinging me around like I weighed nothing, both of us laughing, the sound echoing against the ocean breeze. His arms were strong around me, and I held on tight, burying my face in his neck, feeling the warmth of his skin, the steady beat of his heart against mine.

The world felt right. Perfect. Like all the pieces had finally clicked into place. And as he slowed, bringing me back down to earth, I looked up at him and saw the same wild happiness reflected in his eyes—the same sense of destiny, like we were always meant to end up right here, together, forever.

“Oh, yeah,” he murmured as he gently set me back down, his eyes never leaving mine. “I know today’s already been a lot—getting the deed to your house and a proposal and all—but... this house... it’s yours if you want it too.”

I blinked, trying to catch up, my heart pounding in my chest. “What?”

His grin widened, and he took my hand again, lifting it to his lips and pressing a kiss to my engagement ring. “I found this place a while back. Thought it would be perfect for us. But I didn’t want to pull the trigger without the final approval from my future wife,” he said, his voice low and soft, like he was sharing a secret only for us.

I could barely breathe, my mind spinning as I took in what he was saying, what he was offering. This wasn’t just a house—this was a dream, a life, a future laid out in front of us like an open road.

“If you want it,” Derek continued, his tone steady, but his eyes searching mine, “the paperwork’s all downstairs. It’s my gift to you, for us, to start our life together. Start our family.” His voice softened, almost a whisper. “But if it’s not right, we’ll keep looking after the Jubilee. Whatever you want, Princess.”

I stared at him, my chest tightening with a rush of emotions. The way he said it, so calm, so sure, like buying a beachfront mansion was just another Tuesday for him. My eyes darted around the space—this stunning, sprawling house perched over the ocean, its floor-to-ceiling windows letting in the soft, golden light of the setting sun. The place felt like a dream, like the beginning of a new chapter, one where every page was filled with us.

I couldn’t find my voice at first. “You… you did all this for me?” I finally managed, my voice breaking, feeling the weight of everything he was offering, everything he was promising.

“For us, Des,” he corrected gently, stepping closer, his thumb brushing my cheek, wiping away a tear I didn’t even know had fallen. “I want our life together to start with something that feels right, something that feels like home.”

Tears blurred my vision, and I felt my lips trembling as I tried to form words. “Derek, this is... I don’t even know what to say.”

“Just say yes,” he whispered, his forehead resting against mine, his breath warm and steady. “Say yes to us, to our future. Everything else, we’ll figure out together.”

In that moment, standing in a house that felt like it could be ours, the ocean stretching out before us like it was promising forever, I felt everything all at once. The Pacific’s waves crashed against the rocks, a rhythmic, endless song that filled the air, and everywhere I looked, my favorite flowers—white peonies—surrounded us, cascading from every corner like they were put there just for me. It was like a scene straight out of a dream, but it was real. And there we were, with a photographer and videographer capturing every second of this moment I hadn’t even realized would be a memory we’d cherish forever.

But all I could see was him—Derek, standing there in front of me, his eyes locked onto mine with this unwavering look of love and certainty that cut right through the noise of everything else. It was like he was baring his soul, showing me all the pieces of him, the good and the broken, and saying, This is yours. All of it.

My breath hitched, and my chest tightened, but it wasn’t fear. It was everything I’d ever wanted staring back at me, bold and beautiful, daring me to believe in it. In us.

This wasn’t just a house. It wasn’t just some romantic gesture. This was the beginning of something I never dared to hope for with the one I always loved. And as I looked into his eyes, I knew there was no going back. I was already his, just as much as he was mine, and this—this was our forever.