The Forbidden Throb (Emma and Daniel) novel Chapter 174

I know. I’m just going to check if it’s actually her,” I said, standing up and straightening my jacket. That’s all. Satisfy your curiosity

I made my way through the club’s ornate corridors, past the main reception area with its vaulted ceilings and equestrian trophies gleaming in glass cases. Through the tall windows, I could see riders in the outdoor arena, their movements precise and practiced.

Then I spotted them-Luke Richardson pulling someone along the flagstone path that led toward the private stables, gesturing animatedly about something. The other person turned slightly, and I recognized the profile immediately.

Daniel.

topped short. My brother, here. Today.

The surprise lasted only a moment before logic caught up. Of course, Daniel was here. He and Luke had been friends since children.

I headed in the direction Sophia had pointed out.

The observation terrace on the second floor overlooked the Charles River, a favorite spot for guests seeking privacy or Instagram-worthy views.

And there she was. Really Emma.

She stood alone at the wrought-iron railing, her back to me, her hair catching the light from the vintage sconces. She wore a cream-colored dress, and she was looking at her phone, completely absorbed.

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“Well, well, well. Flying solo tonight?”

She turned, and the shock on her face was almost gratifying. Almost.

Those blue-green eyes I used to find so endearing now just looked wary. Guarded. Like I was a stranger she’d rather avoid.

“Nicholas.” My name came out flat, emotionless.

I sauntered over, forcing casualness I didn’t feel, and dropped into the chair across from her. Crossed my legs.

Relief hit me first

older man hovering possessively, no sugar daddy with his arm around her waist. Just Emma, by herself.

But the

clutching her phone, and my breath caught in my throat.

ring finger like a fucking declaration.

thundered in my ears.

9:21 am P p p p

Chapter 174

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But I smiled. Leaned back. Made my voice drip with exactly the kind of contempt that would hurt most.

“Damn. Your new sugar daddy really spared no expense, huh? That yellow diamond alone-what is that, five carats? Siz? Mudt ve cost him at least two million.”

Emma’s face went white. She looked down at her hand as if seeing the rings for the first time, and something in her expression made my chest ache even as satisfaction curled through me.

resting my elbows on my

ping to something almost conversational which somehow made it crusies

ma-does he even tell

a low whistle, eyes fixed

Her jaw clenched.

1s? Or did he just sneak it out of his wife’s jewelry box when she wasn t looking?

joy it while you can. Who knows when he’ll need to return it.

I continued, unable to sto

connection, about how

“Hope he’s worth

whatever’s left

the words pouring out like poison. “You used to go on and on about wanting a real uess that changed once you figured out what money could actually buy you, huh?”

oking down at her with all the disdain I could muster. “Hope those rocks on your finger make up for

For a lor

ever he

1. Then, slowly, she lifted her chin. When she spoke, her voice was quiet but steady-steadier than I’d

to say this to me?”

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9:21 am pppp

The Forbidden Throb