Chapter 203 Eighteen: Danielle

• "Good evening, everyone. Sorry about that back there, but Lance Rich and another member of his family are not welcome in my buildings or in my presence." Patterson speaks loud enough for everyone to hear and the crowd goes so silent you could hear a pin drop. He pulls me against his side and brings my hand to his mouth. He grazes his lips across the knuckles and my face burns as I realize everyone is watching. "This is Danielle Sanchez," he announces, and then the mumbles in the crowd grow. "Yes, she's the daughter of Nicholas Sanchez," he tells them, answering the question that I know they are all whispering, "but that doesn't mean she is to blame for his crimes. She's here with me tonight and she's going to be by my side from now on. If there is a problem with that, then the exit signs point the way out." His tone is diplomatic but final. Unapologetic.
• His declaration feels like fireworks exploding inside of me and my heart is ready to burst with love and happiness. He's claiming me in front of everyone without a care of what they think.
• "That's all I'm going to say on the matter, but if I hear one word against the woman I love, I'll come after every last person that speaks against her." He looks to me again and I can feel the tears begin to form. "She's the strongest woman I've ever met and I'm lucky that she's mine."