Jake Lewis had always had a commanding presence, especially around Emily Moore, whom he had adored over time.
While their connection had always been difficult, shaped by their personal and professional interactions, Jake couldn't ignore the growing affinity.
Jake had done what he thought was best by deploying personnel to keep Emily safe from the shadows as she embarked on her European bucket list tour.
He knew they'd protect her, but he wasn't expecting the reports that started coming in.
Jake's people kept him updated on Emily's location every day. He was particularly surprised by one revelation: Emily had been meeting another man.
She had spent much time in Italy with this man, Antonio Cuevas, so it wasn't a casual encounter.
Jake grew irritated as the thought tore through him. Why did Emily spend so much time with this man, and who was he? Was this more than simply pals getting along?
Days passed, and Jake's mood deteriorated.
It was difficult for him to focus on his business activities because his thoughts were always on Emily and this odd man. Beneath the surface, his rage was driven by his incapacity to manage the situation from a distance.
Jake had never been able to accept that Emily might be attracted to someone else, let alone win her heart.
Jake's intuition that something needed to be done remained despite the demands of his employment.
He needed to look into the problem for himself. His rage reached a boiling point as he considered another guy getting near to Emily. Being decisive, Jake decided to fly to Italy and deal with the issue personally.
He arranged a private jet and ensured his schedule was on schedule. He needed to contact Antonio Cuevas and amend the facts.
Jake didn't spend any time traveling to Italy.
His security team helped him locate Emily. Antonio was usually seen visiting her at the gorgeous villa she lived in near the Tuscan countryside.
Jake grew envious as he imagined them walking about Florence's picturesque districts, enjoying meals and having beautiful discussions.
He couldn't let this continue.
Jake became outraged the moment he laid eyes on Antonio Cuevas. Antonio was undeniably beautiful, personable, and confident—the type of man who could effortlessly capture someone's attention.
Jake, however, was unconcerned.
He and Antonio differed because he had a history with Emily and a claim on her that Antonio was unaware of.
Jake made a fast stride towards Antonio. His voice was full of force when he talked, and his presence dominated.
Jake responded calmly but anxiously, "I know who you are." Antonio sat still, bewildered but curious, as the sudden altercation surprised him.
"But you must understand something," Jake said. "My wife is Emily." We have a son together and have been married for many years.
"Our child's name is Aiden."
Antonio felt the words as if they were a wave. He was unaware that Emily was married and had much less kids. Antonio's astonishment soon gave way to disbelief.
Confused, he asked again, "Your wife?"
Antonio turned away, too stunned to take in Jake's revelation.
Though he had been actively pursuing Emily, hoping to have a meaningful connection with her, it seemed as if everything had changed.
Jake was far from finished. "I don't care what your intentions are," he said firmly. But Emily has been taken care of.
The last thing she needs is someone else to try interfering with her life—she's had enough. I will always be her family, alongside Aiden."
Antonio was horrified by the news and began to realize the gravity of his predicament.
Though he had always respected Emily's privacy, he suddenly realized that she had never discussed her background.
She had hidden some things from him and never informed him about them. Despite his genuine feelings for Emily, Antonio realizes he may not fully comprehend the situation.
In the meantime, Emily was unaware of Jake's unexpected presence in Italy. After finding out, she experienced a range of emotions.
She had enjoyed her time with Antonio and relished his companionship, even though she knew her relationship with Jake was far from done.
Jake had always been there for her through all their highs and lows, and she couldn't just turn her back on it, not with Aiden involved.
Emily's uneasiness with Jake was palpable when she questioned him about his unannounced arrival.
Emily wasn't sure how she felt about Jake's possessive behavior, but his desire for security had driven him to act alone. Emily said, "You didn't have to come here.
" in a composed yet strong tone. "I can handle myself, Jake."
Jake, still filled with jealousy, gazed up into her eyes. "Emma, I've come because I love you.
Moreover, I refuse to allow someone else to attempt to rob me of you. You and Aiden are my family. We are who we are together."
Emily sighed as the emotional burden of the two men fell on her. She loved Antonio, too, but Jake had a more prominent place in her heart.
One person stood on the other side of her universe, representing her history and giving her a glimpse into the future.
She had to choose her next course of action now.
Jake Lewis found Emily's connection with Antonio Cuevas blooming and couldn't bear to leave her alone in Italy. Despite his usual swagger and assurance, he was in a precarious position.
Jake felt afraid since he was no longer in control of the problem.
Emily's independence and the potential of her going on with another man—someone as captivating as Antonio—haunted his thoughts.
Jake did something unexpected when the opportunity arose: He swallowed his pride and asked, "Emily, do not make me leave.
Let me remain with you. I need to be here with you and Aiden.
"Just give me that."
Emily was taken aback by the urgency in his voice, which was typically powerful and forceful.
Jake had never asked for something like this before. He was always the one calling the shots and making judgments.
Seeing him so vulnerable made her emotional despite their convoluted relationship.