The Heiress Nobody Saw Coming

Zachary's embrace was warm. Still groggy from his nap, his voice was low and husky with a magnetic undertone. Sophia leaned into his arms, finding a rare sense of peace there.

To be honest, she wasn't sure if she was truly ready to see Sky again. But with Zachary by her side, she wasn't afraid.

"Zachary, I don't know if I've fully healed, I don't know if I'll have some kind of trauma response when I see him. But as long as you're with me, I'll be okay," she whispered.

Just hearing Sky's name brought back painful memories, stirring the self-doubts she had spent so long trying to bury. There was a time when the darkness of her past had wrapped around her like a noose, dragging her deeper into despair, making her believe she didn't deserve to be loved.

It was Zachary who pulled her out of that darkness, slowly and steadily, without asking for anything in return. He had stood by her, even when she was at her lowest.

It had taken every ounce of courage she possessed to accept his love. And sometimes, a part of her still feared it was only a dream. If she woke up, she might find herself lost once more in the dark.

"Don't be afraid," Zachary murmured as he gently stroked her back, feeling the slight tremble in her body.

"Whether it's facing Sky or anyone else, I'll be with you. You've done nothing wrong. You have no reason to feel ashamed or unworthy. You're already incredible, Sophia."

His voice was calm and soothing, wrapping around her like a protective cocoon. Slowly, she began to relax.

She exhaled softly and changed the subject. "You must be hungry. Zane ordered food already. Let's go eat."

"Alright." He released her gently, then got out of the car and reached for her hand. Their fingers intertwined naturally.

"When we're back, I'll schedule a time. I'll speak to Sky first. You can come in after."

He still wasn't entirely sure he could trust Sky. A man with a past like his didn't earn complete trust overnight. He needed to be sure Sky had truly changed before letting him anywhere near Sophia.

"Come on, let's go."

"Okay."

They walked into the service area hand in hand. Zane and Connie had already laid out the food on the table and waved them over when they saw the two approached.

"Hey, over here."

Sophia took their seats across from

lot of options at these rest stops, so I just got us some fast food. We'll eat something better when we get

toward them.

using the serving utensils

short walk around the service area to stretch their legs, then got back in the car

...

they were

you free

free. I've just been resting

hadn't really been able to relax.

recent projects and operations. He had always been used to a busy schedule. Even in prison, he had worked hard every

when Zachary called, he agreed

you. Just send me the

Harborview Restaurant? Does that work?"

see you

"See you then."

at his computer screen for a while before finally getting

on a suit and tie, polished black shoes, and cufflinks. But when he

the mirror, the clothes didn't fit the

been long enough to

off the suit and chose something simpler, a sweatshirt and

always wore suits and looked too stiff and serious. So she'd gone and bought him a bunch of casual outfits, saying he should dress more like someone his age. Wearing them now brought a wave

sadness down. The more he thought about it, the harder it

the past would be unfair to those he had hurt, and it

outfit. His buzz cut was still fresh. Anyone who saw it would know where

ready, Sky

of the cookies, pastries, and mini