The sun dipped low over Haven Cove, casting golden light over the waves as Camille stood on the pier, watching the ocean roll toward shore. The salty breeze tangled in her hair, and she inhaled deeply, trying to calm the racing of her heart.
Dominic was behind her. She didn't need to turn to know.
"Camille," his voice was steady, but there was an ache beneath it. "I almost lost you once. I won't do it again."
She closed her eyes. "You were the one who almost left this time."
"I know," he admitted. "And I was a fool for even thinking about it."
He stepped closer, his presence warm against the cool sea air.
"I've spent my life chasing things that don't matter," Dominic said. "Wealth, power, the next big deal. And for what? None of it meant anything without you. Without Liam." He exhaled shakily. "But when I got sick, everything became clear. I wanted time—more time—to fix my mistakes, to make things right."
Camille finally turned to face him. His eyes, once full of pain and distance, now held something else—certainty.
"You don't have to prove anything, Dominic."
"Yes, I do." He took her hand, holding it against his chest, where his heart beat steady beneath her fingertips. "You and Liam are my home. Not the houses, not the businesses. You. I want a future with you, if you'll have me."
Her breath hitched. "You were always going to leave, Dom. That's why I was scared to let you in again."
"I'm here now. And I'm not going anywhere."
Silence stretched between them, heavy with everything left unspoken. And then, finally, Camille surged forward, wrapping her arms around him. Dominic caught her instantly, his grip strong, as if he would never let go.
"I love you, Camille," he whispered against her hair. "I've always loved you."
Tears welled in her eyes as she pulled back just enough to meet his gaze. "I love you too, Dominic."
A slow, reverent smile spread across his lips before he leaned down and kissed her, soft and lingering, tasting of salt and promise.
From the shore, Liam watched them, a small smile tugging at his lips. Isabel nudged him. "You okay, kid?"
Liam shrugged, though his eyes were bright. "I think they finally figured it out."
She chuckled. "Took them long enough."
As the waves crashed and the stars began to scatter across the sky, Camille, Dominic, and Liam stood together—a family, finally whole.
The End.