I Breathe Euro

Jack chuckled softly, appreciating the man's determination. "Alright," he said, his tone thoughtful. "I'll take two days here to settle everything that needs my attention, and then I'll come there. Make sure there's a home for me on that island," he added with a smile. It was a happy occasion, and the thought of stepping onto his own island brought a sense of fulfillment.

"Okay, may God bless you," Dev Swami said, his voice brimming with joy. Even through the phone, Jack could sense the old man's happiness. This wasn't just a business deal or a professional accomplishment—it was a dream coming to life.

Jack ended the call with a contented sigh, his thoughts briefly drifting to the island and what it represented. Turning back to Katrina, he saw her watching him with curiosity. With a warm smile, he walked back to her, ready to share the exciting news.

After ending the call, Jack turned back toward Katrina, his face alight with excitement. Without a second thought, he strode over to her, scooping her up into his strong arms. Before she could react, he swirled her around in a joyous spin, his laughter filling the room. His expression radiated pure happiness, the kind that was rare and contagious.

Katrina let out a surprised laugh, her hands instinctively gripping his shoulders as she tilted her head back, caught up in the moment. "What happened? Why are you so happy all of a sudden?" she asked, her voice ringing with amusement as her red eyes sparkled with curiosity. Discover more stories at empire

Jack finally set her down but didn't let go, keeping his arms wrapped securely around her waist. He leaned closer, his smile broad and uncontainable. "Well, my island is complete," he announced, his voice brimming with pride and excitement. "We're going there, baby. Just you and me."

Katrina's laughter softened, replaced by a surprised yet thrilled expression. "Your island?" she repeated, her eyes widening slightly. But before she could say more, she swayed a little, placing a hand on her forehead with a small laugh. "Alright, put me down now. My head's spinning after all that twirling," she said, shaking her head playfully.

Jack chuckled, steadying her as she regained her balance. "Sorry about that," he said, still smiling, his hands lingering protectively on her shoulders. "But I couldn't help it. I'm just so excited to show you the island."

Katrina looked up at him, her initial surprise melting into a warm smile. "An island, huh?" she mused, her voice soft but filled with anticipation. "You're always full of surprises, Jack."

He gave her a wink. "That's because I want to give you the world, and this is just the beginning," he said confidently, his gaze locking with hers.

Katrina leaned into him, a soft laugh escaping her lips. "Alright then, Mr. Island Owner," she teased. "Let's see if this paradise you've built is as perfect as you make it sound."

"Oh, it will be," Jack said with a smirk, his confidence unwavering. "You're going to love it. Just wait and see."

With that, the two stood there, basking in the shared excitement of the moment, their imaginations already drifting to the tropical paradise that awaited them.

After the excitement settled, Jack decided to check on Maria. He stepped outside his suite, the luxurious hallway of the five-star hotel greeting him with its polished marble floors and ambient lighting. His footsteps were quiet but purposeful as he headed downstairs to Maria's room. While Jack's accommodations were an opulent suite befitting his status, Maria's room, though still a five-star haven, was more modest in comparison.

As he approached her door, he paused for a moment, raising his hand to knock. The soft sound echoed faintly in the hallway. A few seconds later, the door creaked open, and there stood Maria.

Jack's sharp eyes immediately noticed the subtle but significant changes in her demeanor. Maria's face, once vibrant with youthful energy, now held a more mature and composed expression. There was a quiet strength in her gaze, a kind of resilience that hadn't been there before. Her transformation was undeniable, as though the weight of recent events had fast-tracked her transition from a carefree teenager to a poised young woman.

"Maria," Jack greeted, his voice warm but tinged with concern. His gaze softened as he took in her appearance, noting the subtle exhaustion in her eyes.

Maria offered a small smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Jack," she said, stepping aside to let him in. "Come in."

Jack entered the room, glancing around briefly before turning his attention back to her. The room was immaculate, with a minimalist yet elegant design, but it felt colder compared to the vibrant energy Maria used to exude.

"You're looking... different," Jack remarked gently, choosing his words carefully. "How are you holding up?"

Maria sighed, crossing her arms as she leaned against the edge of the bed. "I'm managing," she said quietly, her voice steady but lacking its usual spark. "Ever since my father passed... things feel different. I feel different."

Jack nodded, understanding the unspoken emotions behind her words. "You've been through a lot, Maria. It's okay to feel this way," he said softly, his tone reassuring.

Maria met his gaze, and for a moment, the mask of composure slipped. "It's just... everything happened so fast. One moment, I'm a teenager worrying about trivial things, and the next, I'm dealing with responsibilities I never thought I'd have," she admitted, her voice trembling slightly.

Jack stepped closer, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "You're stronger than you realize," he said firmly. "And you're not alone in this. If you need help, if you need someone to lean on, I'm here. Always."

Maria's lips quirked into a faint smile, this time more genuine. "Thanks, Jack. That means a lot," she said, her voice soft but grateful.

Jack gave her shoulder a reassuring squeeze before stepping back. "Take your time, Maria. You don't have to rush through this. You're allowed to grieve and find your footing at your own pace," he said.

She nodded, her expression thoughtful. "I'll try," she said simply, her voice carrying a hint of determination.

Jack glanced toward the door, sensing it was time to give her space. "Alright. If you need anything, just call me," he said, offering her a small smile before heading out.

Maria watched him go, her heart feeling just a little lighter. Despite everything, she knew she had someone she could rely on, and that made all the difference.