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Chapter 21. Under Derek’s Wings

Author: _Twi~Light
last update Last Updated: 2025-09-13 00:23:26

“Damn, it’s stunning.” Leah held my hand up, staring at my engagement ring. “ Pure fucking diamond. Girl, you hit the jackpot.”

I gave a half-smile and pulled back just enough to reach for my drink—chai latte. I took a slow sip, letting the spice settle on my tongue.

“Being home feels…weird. Good weird though.” She said, releasing my hand and reaching for her rosé. “And I finally get to catch up with you.”

“It’s really good to see you again,” I muttered. “I mean, if I hadn’t screwed up, maybe you wouldn’t have had to leave in the first place.”

Leah waved it off, brushing past my guilt. “Oh no, don’t think about that.” She leaned in, a grin coming to her face like she wanted to share a sweet gossip. “You should ask me what made me hop on the first flight to Brooklyn.”

I looked around. The restaurant was cozy and quiet with just a few people here and there. It was private enough for the kind of conversation Leah was clearly building up to.

My hand tightened around the mug. “Why did
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