Chapter1:“IThinkWeNeedaLawyer”
FromtheArchivesofBohiney.com:
“BREAKING:JaxonCrossandSavannahSteeleIndicted—BillionairePowerCouple FacesTrialoftheCentury”
SavannahSteelehadalwaysknowndatingabillionairewouldbeabadidea.
Shejustdidn’tthinkitwouldleadtoafederalindictment.
Buthereshewas—sittinginaveryuncomfortableplasticchair,insideaverygovernmentlookingoffice,listeningtoaveryseriousfederalprosecutor listallthewayssheandJaxon Crosshadallegedlycommittedfinancialcrimes.
Savannahblinked.
ThenturnedtoJaxon,whowas sittingnexttoher,lookingsuspiciouslyrelaxed.
"Jaxon."
Jaxon,calmlysippinghisoverpricedespresso,archedaneyebrow.
"Yes, sweetheart?"
Savannahgesturedwildlyatthestackoflegaldocumentsonthetable.
"WE HAVE BEEN INDICTED."
Jaxonleanedbackinhischair.
"Yes, I gathered that."
Savannahwantedtodie.
Orbetteryet?
ShewantedtokillJaxonfirst.
Meanwhile,theU.S.GovernmentWasLosingItsMind
Inaverysecuregovernmentfacility,aroomfullofexhaustedfederalagentswerestaringat agiantscreendisplayingJaxonandSavannah’sfaces.
Asenioragentsighed.
"So. Just to confirm—this billionaire tech mogul and this journalist have single-handedly wrecked the U.S. financial system, embarrassed the Treasury Department, and exposed a Russian oligarch on live television?"
Ayoungeranalystnodded.
"Correct, sir."
Theagentrubbedhistemples.
"…And they did all of this by accident?"
Theanalysthesitated.
"That part is… unclear."
Theagentsigheddeeply.
"Arrest them both."
TheBillionaireandtheJournalist:NowWithMoreFelonies
Savannahhad twoimmediateconcerns.
1. Shewasfacingmultiplefederalcharges.
2. JaxonCrossdidnotseemevenremotelyworriedaboutit.
"Jaxon." Savannahwhispered,leaningtowardhim. "Do you understand what’s happening right now?"
Jaxonnodded.
"Of course. We’re being framed."
Savannahblinked.
"I—what?"
Jaxonsigheddramatically,likehewasexplainingsomethingverysimpletosomeonevery dumb.
"Sweetheart, do you really think the U.S. government would go through all this trouble just to arrest me for offshore accounts? This isn’t about fraud. It’s about power."
Savannahstared.
"Jaxon, I swear to God, if you say the words ‘deep state conspiracy,’ I am walking out of this office and turning myself in."
Jaxonsmirked.
"Relax. I would never say that."
Savannahexhaledinrelief.
Jaxontookanothersipofhisespresso.
"I prefer the term ‘shadow government agenda.’"
Savannahthrewalegalpadathim.
TheIndictmentThatBroketheInternet
Atthatexactmoment,theworldwasmeltingdown.
Becausethe U.S.DepartmentofJusticehadjustpubliclyannouncedthatSavannahSteele and JaxonCrosswereofficiallyunderfederalindictment.
Andtheinternet?
Theinternetabsolutelylostit.
“OMG THIS IS LIKE SUCCESSION BUT REAL LIFE”
“Savannah, if you need a place to hide, my basement is available.”
“Jaxon Cross getting indicted for fraud? Shocked but not surprised.”
“Are they gonna be cellmates? I need this rom-com to continue.”
Andnaturally,Bohiney.com wastednotimecashingin.
NEWHEADLINES:
“BILLIONAIRE BEHIND BARS? The Jaxon Cross Trial Begins”
“BREAKING: Is Savannah Steele Flipping on Her Husband?”
“EXCLUSIVE: Viktor Orlov Says ‘I Would Have Kept Her Out of Prison’”
RileyMercer,Savannah’sbestfriendandshamelessopportunist,cackledassherefreshed thesitetraffic.
"This is the best day of my career."
Savannah,meanwhile,wasscreamingintoapillow.
TheGovernment’sDeal(aka:BetrayYourHusband,WalkFree)
Savannahhad exactlyoneplan:
1. Hirethebestlawyerontheplanet.
2. Denyeverything.
3. Somehownotgotoprison.
Unfortunately,theU.S.governmenthadadifferentplan.
Becausejustasshewasreadytofightback—
Theleadprosecutorslidaveryofficial-lookingdocument acrossthetable.
"Ms. Steele," hesaid. "We’d like to make you an offer."
Savannahhesitated.
"What kind of offer?"
Theprosecutorsmiled.
"Testify against your husband. Walk free."
Savannahstoppedbreathing.
Andacrossthetable?
Jaxonwentcompletelystill.
ThePartWhereJaxonCrossFinallyLooksWorried
SavannahcouldfeelJaxon’seyesonher.
Forthefirsttimesincethisinsanetrialbegan,hewasn’tsmirking.
Wasn’trelaxed.
Wasn’tpretendinglikethiswasallpartofsomemasterplan.
Helooked… Concerned.
Becausethis?
Thiswasthefirstrealthreat.
Andthegovernmentknewit.
"Ms. Steele," theprosecutorcontinued, "you’re a journalist. You don’t belong in this world. But if you stay with Cross, we’ll make sure you go down with him."
Savannah’sstomachtwisted.
Becausetheyweren’twrong.
IfshestayedwithJaxon?
She’dbefacingyearsinfederalprison.
Ifshebetrayedhim?
She’dwalkawayfree.
Theprosecutorleanedforward.
"All you have to do is sign."
Savannahstaredatthepeninfrontofher.
Herhandsshook.
Andacrossthetable?
Jaxon,forthefirsttimeever, actuallylookedafraid.
Butthen—
Heleanedin,voicelowanddangerous.
"Don’t do it, Savannah."
Savannah’sheartpounded.
Becauseshehadachoice.
Betrayhim. Ortrusthim. Walkaway. Orstay.
Theentireroomwaited. Theprosecutorsmiled.
Savannahexhaledsharply. Andthen?
Shepushedthepenaway.
"Screw your deal," shesaid.
Jaxon’ssmirkreturned.
Theprosecutor’ssmiledisappeared. Andjustlikethat?
SavannahSteeleandJaxonCrosswereofficially goingtotrial. Together. Forbetter. Forworse.
Andforseveraldozenfelonycharges.
ToBeContinued…
Chapter2:TheBillionaireWhoWentBroke
FromtheArchivesofBohiney.com:
“BREAKING:JaxonCrossIsBROKE—IsThistheEndoftheBillionaireEmpire?”
SavannahSteeleneverthoughtshe’dlivetoseethedayJaxonCrosscouldn’taffordacoffee. Butheretheywere.
Standinginthemiddleofa crowdedNewYorkcafé,Jaxonwasstaringathis declinedcredit cardlikeitwaspersonallyattackinghim.
Thebarista,abored-lookingcollegestudent, exhaledloudly.
"Sir. Do you have another form of payment?"
Jaxon,genuinelyconfused,turnedtoSavannah.
"What does that mean?"
Savannahrubbedhertemples.
"It means you’re broke, Jaxon."
Jaxonblinked.
"That can’t be right."
Savannahfoldedherarms.
"Jaxon, the government froze your assets. You have literally zero dollars."
Jaxonscoffed.
"That’s absurd. I’m a billionaire."
Thebaristaleanedagainstthecounter.
"Not anymore, dude."
Jaxonlookedpersonallyoffended.
Savannahsighed,pulledoutherowncreditcard,andpaidforthecoffee.
Jaxonwatchedinhorror.
"Did you just—pay for me?"
Savannahsmirked.
"Welcome to the middle class, sweetheart."
Jaxonlookedphysicallyill.
Meanwhile,theInternetWasHavingaFieldDay
Themomentnewsbrokethat JaxonCrosswasofficiallybroke,theinternetexploded.
Twitterwasadisaster.
“Jaxon Cross can’t even afford a Starbucks now? I AM LIVING FOR THIS.”
“I never thought I’d see a billionaire lose a fight to capitalism.”
“If Jaxon Cross needs a couch to sleep on, he can stay at mine. Rent is $4,000 a month.”
Andofcourse,Bohiney.com wastednotimecapitalizingonthesituation.
NEWHEADLINES:
“BILLIONAIRE GOES BANKRUPT: Jaxon Cross Faces Harsh Reality of Public Transportation”
“EXCLUSIVE: Sources Say Jaxon Cross ‘Looked Confused’ When Asked for Cash”
“Savannah Steele Reportedly Paid for His Coffee—Are Gender Roles Dead?”
RileyMercer,Savannah’sbestfriendandshamelessjournalist,grinnedatherphone.
"This is the best thing I have ever seen."
Savannah,readingoverhershoulder,groaned.
"I hate you."
Rileysippedhercoffee.
"Not as much as Jaxon hates being broke."
JaxonCrossvs.TheRealWorld
Jaxonhadspenthisentirelifesurroundedbyluxury.
Privatejets.
Personalchefs.
Ateamofassistantswho neverlethimdoanythingforhimself. Andnow?
NowhewasstandinginaCVS,staringataself-checkoutmachinelikeitwasanalien artifact.
Savannah,watchingfrom behindhim,sighed.
"Jaxon. Just scan the item."
Jaxonfrowned.
"Scan it with what?"
Savannahpointedatthe barcodescanner.
"With that."
Jaxonpickedupthescannercautiously.
Thenhescannedtheitem—
Andimmediatelydroppedthescannerlikeitburnedhim.
Themachinebeeped.
"UNEXPECTED ITEM IN BAGGING AREA."
Jaxonstared.
"What does that mean?"
Savannahmassagedhertemples.
"It means the universe is punishing you."
Jaxoncrossedhisarms.
"This is inhumane."
Savannahsmirked.
"Welcome to real life."
Jaxongrumbledsomethingabouthumanrightsviolations.
TheIRSAbsolutelyHatesJaxonCross
SavannahhadassumedtheworstpartofJaxon’sfinancialsituation wasthathewasnow functionallybroke. Shewaswrong.
Becauseasitturnedout,theIRSwasstillafterhim. Andworse?
Theywereafterher,too.
Savannahsatinthekitchenofherapartment,staringata verythreateninggovernmentletter. "Jaxon."
Jaxon,loungingonhercouchlikehelivedtherenow,lookedup.
"Yes, darling?"
Savannahtossedtheletterathim.
"The IRS says we owe them $85 million."
Jaxoncaughttheletter,glancedatit,andshrugged.
"That’s not bad."
Savannahchoked.
"JAXON. THAT IS NOT A NORMAL RESPONSE."
Jaxonsettheletteraside.
"Sweetheart, if you think $85 million is bad, you should see what they fined me for ‘accidental securities fraud’ last year."
Savannahburiedherfaceinherhands.
"I married an actual menace."
Jaxongrinned.
"You knew what you were getting into."
Savannahthrewabookathim.
Jaxondodgedeffortlessly.
Meanwhile,ViktorOrlovWasWatchingEverything
ViktorOrlovsatinhisluxuryMonacovilla,sippingvodka,watchingthenews.
JaxonCross?
Broke.
Underinvestigation.
Livinglikeameremortal.
Viktorsmirked.
"Pathetic."
Hisphonebuzzed.
Amessagefrom agovernmentcontact.
"ThecaseagainstCrossisweakerthanexpected.Ifyouwanthim gone,now’syour chance."
Viktorleanedback,consideringhisoptions.
Thenhesmiled.
"Time to remind Savannah who the better billionaire is."
JaxonCrossDiscoversRentExists
Savannahhadbeendreadingthismoment.
BecauseJaxon,formerbillionaireandcurrentfinancialdisaster,hadjustdiscoveredthat apartmentscostmoney.
"I have to pay RENT?"
Savannah,sittingonthecouchwithherlaptop,didnotlookup.
"Yes, Jaxon. That’s how the world works."
Jaxonlookeddeeplyoffended.
"For what?"
Savannahsighed.
"For having a place to live."
Jaxonscowled.
"That’s absurd. I’ve never paid for a roof in my life."
Savannahrolledhereyes.
"Well, congratulations. You’re officially a member of the working class."
Jaxoncollapsedontothecouchdramatically.
"This is the worst day of my life."
Savannahsmirked.
"Worse than the indictment?"
Jaxongroaned.
"Not even close."
Savannahlaughed.
Andforthefirsttimein weeks,sherealized—
Shewasn’tscaredanymore.
Becauseyeah,theywere broke.
Yeah,theyweregoingtotrial.
Yeah,theIRSprobablywantedtheirsouls.
Butsomehow?
Theywerestillstanding. AndJaxon?
HewasstillJaxon.
Whichmeanthewasalreadyscheming.
ThePlanThatWill(Probably)GetThemArrestedAgain
Jaxonsatupsuddenly.
"I have a plan."
Savannahimmediatelyregrettedbeinginthesameroomashim.
"Jaxon, no."
Jaxongrinned.
"Savannah, yes."
Savannahrubbedhertemples.
"Why do I feel like this plan involves massive legal repercussions?"
Jaxonleanedin.
"Sweetheart, if it doesn’t break at least three federal laws, is it really a good plan?"
Savannahletoutanexhaustedsigh.
Becauseshealreadyknew.
Whateverwascomingnext?
Itwasgoingtobedisastrous.
Andsomehow—
Shewasgoingtoberightinthemiddleofit.
ToBeContinued…
Chapter3:TheU.S.Governmentvs.Jaxon Cross
FromtheArchivesofBohiney.com:
“BREAKING:JaxonCrossandSavannahSteeleFaceTrialoftheCentury—Willthe BillionaireandHisWifeSurviveCourtroom Chaos?”
SavannahSteelehadmademanybaddecisionsinherlife.
ShehadoncetrustedJaxonCross.
Shehadagreedtoafakemarriage.
Shehadhelpedbreakintoagovernmentfacility.
Butnothing—nothing—comparedtoagreeingtostandtrialwithhim.
Becauserightnow,shewassittinginapackedfederalcourtroom,watchingasJaxonCross— billionairemenace,financialanarchist,andheraccidentalhusband smirkedatafederal judge.
"Mr. Cross," thejudgesaid,voicedangerouslylow, "are you smiling?"
Jaxon,leaningbackinhischairlikehewasatbrunch,replied—
"Your Honor, I’m always smiling."
Savannahcoveredherfacewithbothhands.
Theyweregoingtodie.
Meanwhile,theInternetWasHavingaCollectiveMeltdown
Theentireworldwaswatchingthistrial.
Andnaturally,Twitterwasanabsolutedisaster.
“Jaxon Cross representing himself in court is either genius or proof of his villain origin story.”
“I’ve never seen a man flirt with a judge before, but here we are.”
“Savannah Steele, blink twice if you need rescuing.”
Andofcourse,Bohiney.com wasmakingmillionsoffthechaos.
NEWHEADLINES:
“IS THIS LOVE OR JUST REALLY GOOD FRAUD?”
“Savannah Steele Sticks by Jaxon—Does This Make Her an Accomplice or a Ride-orDie?”
“EXCLUSIVE: Viktor Orlov Calls the Trial ‘Hilarious’”
RileyMercer,Savannah’sbestfriendandshamelessjournalist,grinnedassherefreshedthe sitetraffic.
"Savannah is going to kill me."
Shesippedhericedcoffee.
"Or she’s going to kill Jaxon. Either way, I win."
TheProsecutionvs.TheWorld’sMostUnbotheredBillionaire
Theleadprosecutor,averyserious-lookingwomaninanavysuit, clearedherthroat.
"Your Honor," shesaid, "the government intends to prove that Mr. Cross engaged in systematic tax evasion, securities fraud, and illegal offshore banking."
Savannahexhaledsharply.
"Jaxon. This is serious."
Jaxonturnedtoher,smirking.
"Sweetheart, I know. They’re trying to make numbers sound scary."
Savannahglared.
"They ARE scary."
Theprosecutorcontinued.
"Additionally, we will present evidence that Miss Steele—"
Savannah’sstomachdropped.
"—directly assisted in hiding financial assets during their time in Monaco."
Savannahfroze.
"I—WHAT?"
Jaxonsigheddramatically.
"Sweetheart, just let them finish their little speech."
Savannahthrewalegalpadathishead.
TheWitnessThatBroketheCase
Savannahhadassumedtheprosecution’s starwitnesswouldbeanaccountant.
Orafinancialexpert.
Or,atworst,someonefromtheIRS.
ShedidnotexpectViktorOrlovtowalkintothecourtroom.
Savannahstared.
Jaxon,forthefirsttimeintheentiretrial, actuallylookedsurprised.
Viktor,smilinglikeamanwhohadabsolutelyplannedthis, tookthestand.
"Mr. Orlov," theprosecutorsaid, "can you confirm that you personally invested in Mr. Cross’s offshore accounts?"
Viktortiltedhishead.
"Of course."
Thecourtroomgasped.
Jaxonmutteredsomethingunderhisbreaththatwasdefinitelynotlegaltosayincourt.
Savannahfeltanoverwhelmingurgetoscream.
ViktorglancedatJaxonandsmirked.
"You should have stayed in hiding, my friend."
ThePartWhereJaxonCrossAlmostCommitsaCrimeinCourt
SavannahgrabbedJaxon’sarmbeforehecould jumpoverthebenchandmurderViktor.
"Jaxon. No."
Jaxon,eyesdark,whispered—
"Sweetheart, you have no idea how much I hate that man."
Savannahsighed.
"I’m starting to get the idea."
Jaxontookadeepbreath.
ThenturnedbacktoViktor.
"You know, Orlov, for someone who loves power, I thought you’d be better at holding onto it."
Viktor’ssmirkflickered.
Savannahfroze.
BecausesheknewthatlookonJaxon’sface.
ThatwashisI’mabouttoburneverythingtotheground face.
Andthen—
Jaxonstood.
"Your Honor," hesaidsmoothly, "I have new evidence to present."
TheTwistThatNoOneSawComing
Theentirecourtroomstilled.
Eventhejudgelookedintrigued.
"Proceed, Mr. Cross."
JaxonpulledoutaUSBdrive.
Savannahgroaned.
"Jaxon, if that’s another classified document, I swear—"
JaxonpluggedtheUSBintothemonitor.
Andonthescreen?
Appearedbankrecords.
Governmenttransactions.
Numbersthatshouldnotexist.
Andatthecenterofitall?
NotJaxon.
NotSavannah.
ButViktorOrlov.
TheFallofViktorOrlov
Savannahwatchedasthecourtroomimploded.
Viktorwentcompletelystill.
Jaxon,grinninglikehehadjustwonachessmatch, leanedback.
"Turns out, Your Honor, I’m not the one running an international financial crime ring."
Theprosecutorturnedpale.
TheFBIagentsinthebackscrambledoutoftheroom.
AndViktor?
Viktorexhaledsharply.
Thensmirked.
"Clever bastard."
Andbeforeanyonecould react—
Hepressedsomethingonhiswatch.
Andsuddenly—
Thecourtroomlightscutout.
TheEscapeThatNoOneExpected Chaos.
Absolutechaos.
Bythetimethelightscamebackon, Viktorwasgone.
Jaxon,lookingannoyinglypleasedwithhimself, turnedtoSavannah.
"Well. That was fun."
Savannahwantedtopunchhim.
Thejudgeslammedthegavel.
"ORDER IN THE COURT."
Butitwastoolate.
BecauseViktorOrlov?
Wasalreadygone.
TheVerdict
Threehourslater,SavannahandJaxonwere backinthecourtroom,waitingforthefinal decision.
Thejudgerubbedhistemples.
"Due to recent developments…"
Theroomhelditsbreath.
"The charges against Mr. Cross and Miss Steele are dropped."
Thecourtroomerupted.
Jaxongrinned.
Savannahexhaledsharply. Andjustlikethat? Theywerefree. Fornow.
BecauseViktorOrlov? Hewasstilloutthere. AndSavannahhadafeeling— Thiswasn’tover.
Notevenclose.
ToBeContinued…
Chapter4:TheProsecution’sStarWitness— SavannahSteele
FromtheArchivesofBohiney.com:
“BREAKING:SavannahSteeleCalledtoTestifyAgainstHusband—WillSheSaveJaxon CrossorSaveHerself?”
SavannahSteelehadsurvivedalotinthepastsixmonths.
ATwitterpolldecidingherlovelife.
Afakeweddingthatturneddisturbinglyreal.
Ahigh-speedboatchaseinMonaco.
Butnothing—absolutelynothing—comparedtotheabsolutenightmareofbeingforcedto testifyagainstJaxonCrossinfederalcourt.
Becauserightnow,shewassittinginthewitnessstand,underoath,staringatafederal prosecutorwholookedwaytoopleasedtohaveherhere.
Andacrossthecourtroom?
JaxonCross—herbillionaire,now-broke,legallyquestionable husband—waswatchingherwith averyspecificlook.
Alookthatsaid—
"Sweetheart, don’t you dare."
Savannahexhaledsharply.
Because,tobeclear—
Shehadabsolutelynoideawhatshewasgoingtodo.
TwelveHoursEarlier…
Savannahhadspenttheentirenight staringattheceiling,tryingtofigureoutheroptions.
Becausethe U.S.governmenthadmadeitpainfullyclear:
Shehadtwochoices.
1. TestifyagainstJaxon.Walkfree.
2. Refuse,andriskgoingtoprisonwithhim.
Savannahturnedoverin bed, staringatJaxon’sunconsciousform.
Whydidhelooksopeaceful?
Likehewasn’tabouttobe facingdownthetrialofthecentury.
Likehewasn’t thebiggestfinancialscandalinthecountry.
Likehewasn’tdragging herdownwithhim.
Savannahscowled.
"I hate you." shemutteredunderherbreath.
Jaxon,half-asleep,smirked.
"No, you don’t."
Savannahgrabbedapillowand smackedhimintheface.
Meanwhile,Bohiney.comWasDoingWhatItDidBest:ProfitingOffSavannah’s Pain
Theseconditwas announcedthat SavannahSteelehadbeencalledtotestifyagainstJaxon, Twitterabsolutelyimploded.
“THE TRIAL OF THE CENTURY JUST GOT EVEN MESSIER.”
“Is this the most dramatic enemies-to-lovers arc of all time?”
“If Savannah flips, I swear to God, I will sue.”
And,ofcourse,Bohiney.com wastednotime.
NEWHEADLINES:
“Savannah Steele Takes the Stand—Will She Betray Jaxon?”
“The Internet Is Now Officially Team Savannah or Team Jaxon”
“EXCLUSIVE: Viktor Orlov Says He ‘Knows What She’ll Choose’”
RileyMercer,Savannah’sbestfriendandruthlessmediamogul,kickedherfeetuponher desk.
"This is better than reality TV."
Savannah,meanwhile,wasactivelyreconsideringherlifechoices.
TheMomentofTruth:SavannahSteeleTakestheStand
Thecourtroomwasdeadsilent.
Savannahsatinthewitnessbox,facingdowntheprosecutor—awomanwhohadspentthepast monthtryingtoruinJaxon’slife.
"Miss Steele," theprosecutorbegan,walkingslowlytowardher. "You are married to the defendant, correct?"
Savannah’sgriponthestand tightened.
"Legally, yes."
Jaxon,fromhisseat, smirked.
Savannahresistedtheurgeto throwsomethingathim.
"And in your time with Mr. Cross," theprosecutorcontinued, "you were aware of his financial dealings?"
Savannahhesitated.
Becausethiswasthetrap.
Admitsheknew—andshebecameanaccomplice.
Sayshedidn’t—andshelookedlikealiar.
Savannahforcedherselftobreathe.
"I was aware that Jaxon Cross was the most reckless billionaire I had ever met."
Theroommurmured.
Jaxongrinned.
Theprosecutor,however, wasn’tdone.
"Miss Steele. Did Mr. Cross ever discuss illegal financial activities with you?"
Savannah’sstomach twisted.
Becausesheknewwhattheprosecutorwasdoing. Theywantedhertoturnagainsthim.
Tosaveherself.
Andacrosstheroom?
Jaxonwaswatching.
Notsmirking.
Notplayinggames.
Justwatching.
Waiting. TheChoice
Savannahknewwhatshehadtodo.
Sheknewwhatanyrationalpersonwoulddo.
Andyet?
Somehow?
Shedidtheexactopposite.
Sheturnedtotheprosecutor.
Andsmiled.
"With all due respect," shesaidsmoothly, "I plead the Fifth."
Theentirecourtroomexploded.
Jaxonlaughed.
Theprosecutorlookedfurious.
Andjustlikethat?
SavannahSteelehadjustpubliclychosenJaxonCross. Again.
Forbetter. Forworse.
Andforatleastsixmorefelonycharges.
TheInternetAbsolutelyMeltsDown
ThemomentSavannah refusedtotestifyagainstJaxon,Twitterdescendedintochaos.
“I CAN’T BELIEVE SHE DID THAT.”
“This is either love or absolute stupidity.”
“I need a Netflix adaptation IMMEDIATELY.”
Bohiney.com,naturally,wasalreadyprepared.
NEWHEADLINES:
“Savannah Steele Refuses to Testify—What Happens Next?”
“Jaxon Cross and Savannah Steele: Is This the Sexiest Financial Scandal of All Time?”
“EXCLUSIVE: Viktor Orlov Reportedly ‘Not Amused’”
Riley,watchingthelivereactions, absolutelylosthermind.
"I am making SO much money off this."
Savannah,meanwhile,wastryingveryhardnottothinkaboutwhatshehadjustdone.
TheAftermath:JaxonCross,SmugBastard
BythetimeSavannahleftthecourtroom,shewas stillshaking.
And,ofcourse,Jaxonwasalreadywaitingforher.
Leaningagainstthehallwaywall,arms crossed, smirkinglikeamanwhoknewhehadjust won.
"Sweetheart."
Savannahglared.
"Jaxon, if you say one smug word—"
Jaxonsteppedforward.
"You didn’t have to do that."
Savannahexhaledsharply.
"Yeah, well. You’re annoying, but I guess I’d rather not see you rot in prison."
Jaxonchuckled.
"That’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever said to me."
Savannahgroaned.
"I hate you."
Jaxontiltedhishead.
"No, you don’t."
Andbeforeshecouldargue—
Hegrabbedherbythewaistandkissedher.
Savannah,againstalllogic,kissedhimback.
Becausemaybethiswasstupid.
Maybethiswasdangerous.
Maybeshehadjustdestroyedherentirefuture.
Butifshewasgoingtogodownwithhim?
Shemightaswellmakeitfun.
ToBeContinued…
Chapter5:TheCross-ExaminationfromHell
FromtheArchivesofBohiney.com:
“BREAKING:SavannahSteeleSurvivesBrutalCross-Examination—ButIsHerMarriage toJaxonCrossOfficiallyaFederalLiability?”
SavannahSteelehadbeenthroughalotofquestionablesituationsinherlife.
Afakeengagementthatturnedintoarealwedding.
Ahigh-speedchaseinvolvingmultipleforeigngovernments.
HidingoutinMonacowhiletheFBIactivelyplottedherarrest.
Butnothing—absolutelynothing—comparedtobeinggrilledbyaU.S.attorneyonlive television.
Becauserightnow,shewassittinginthewitnessstand,underoath,whiletheprosecution attemptedtoruinherentireexistence.
Andacrosstheroom?
JaxonCross—billionairetroublemaker,certifiedlegaldisaster,andherveryreal husband—waswatchingherlikeshewasthestockmarketandhewaswaitingforitto crash.
Savannahexhaledsharply.
"I hate my life." shemuttered.
Jaxonsmirked.
"Sweetheart, you look amazing under pressure."
Savannahthrewapenathim.
Meanwhile,theInternetWasGoingAbsolutelyFeral
Theentireworldwaswatchingthistrialunfoldinreal-time.
And,naturally,Twitterwasacompletecircus.
“SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME THIS ISN’T ACTUALLY HAPPENING.”
“Why does Jaxon Cross look like he’s about to start flirting with the prosecutor?”
“Savannah, don’t fold. We’re all rooting for your enemies-to-lovers redemption arc.”
And,ofcourse,Bohiney.com wasfullycapitalizingonthechaos.
NEWHEADLINES:
“SAVANNAH STEELE HOLDS HER OWN IN COURT—BUT FOR HOW LONG?”
“EXCLUSIVE: Jaxon Cross Caught Smirking at Wife During Trial—Is He Just a Billionaire or a True Menace to Society?”
“BREAKING: Viktor Orlov Calls the Trial ‘Pathetic’—What Is He Plotting Next?”
RileyMercer,Savannah’sbestfriend,legaljournalist,andmediachaosgremlin,sippedher icedcoffeeandgrinned.
"This is my Super Bowl."
Savannah,meanwhile,wasactivelyquestioningevery choiceshehadevermade.
TheProsecutionGoesfortheKill
"Miss Steele," theprosecutorsaid,pacingthecourtroomlikeshewasauditioningforanHBO drama, "let’s talk about your relationship with Mr. Cross."
Savannah’sstomachtwisted.
"Sure. Why not."
"Would you describe your marriage as… legitimate?"
Savannahblinked.
"Uh, legally? Yes."
"And emotionally?"
Savannahpaused.
Becausethat?
Thatwasatrap.
Ifsheadmittedthattheirmarriage startedasaPRstunt,itwoulddestroyanycredibilityshe had.
Ifshesaiditwasreal,thegovernmentwouldassumeshewas coveringforJaxon.
Savannahforcedherselftosmile.
"Emotionally, we are two people who have survived multiple assassination attempts together. Draw your own conclusions."
Thecourtroomsnickered.
Theprosecutor’sjawtightened.
Jaxon,fromacrosstheroom, lookedlikehewashavingthetimeofhislife.
JaxonCrossvs.TheU.S.LegalSystem
Savannahhadneverseenamanlessconcernedaboutfederalcharges thanJaxonCross.
Becausewhile theentire courtroomwasholdingitsbreath,waitingtoseeifhe’dbe convicted—
Jaxonwascasuallyadjustinghiscufflinkslikethiswasabusinessmeeting.
Theprosecutorturnedonhimnext.
"Mr. Cross," shesaid,glaring. "Do you take this court seriously?"
Jaxonsmirked.
"Of course. Why wouldn’t I?"
Savannahburiedherfaceinherhands.
Theprosecutorsighed.
"Mr. Cross, are you aware that your wife refused to testify against you?"
Jaxon’sexpressionflickered.
Savannahheldherbreath.
Becauseforthefirsttimeinthisentiretrial,JaxonCrossdidnothaveacomeback.
Hejust…lookedather.
Likehewasn’t expectinghertochoosehim.
Likeithadnever even crossedhismindthatshemightactually beonhisside.
Savannah’sheartskipped.
Jaxonclearedhisthroat, leaningbackagain.
"Well," hesaidsmoothly, "I guess that means she likes me after all."
Savannahthrewanotherpenathim.
Meanwhile,ViktorOrlovWasWatchingEverything
Somewhereveryexpensiveandprobablyillegal,ViktorOrlovsatinhispenthouse,drinking vodka,watchingthetrialliveontelevision.
Hesmirked.
"Pathetic."
Aphonebuzzed.
Oneofhisassociates—amanwhohad**definitelycommittedwarcrimesatsomepoint— **answered.
"Sir, our sources confirm the prosecution is failing. If you want Cross out of the picture, you’ll need to move soon."
Viktortookanothersipofvodka.
Thenhesmiled.
"Oh, I intend to."
SavannahSteelevs.TheLegalSystem(AndAlsoHerHusband’sSmugFace)
Bythetimetheprosecutionfinishedtheirquestioning,Savannahwasreadytocollapse.
Jaxon,meanwhile,wasstillannoyinglyrelaxed.
Thejudgerubbedhistemples.
"We will reconvene tomorrow for the defense’s case."
Savannahletoutaslowbreath.
Jaxon?
Jaxongrinnedlikehehadjustwonachessmatch.
Savannahturnedtohim, exhausted.
"Jaxon, I swear to God—"
"Sweetheart," Jaxoninterrupted, "I think you just saved my ass in there."
Savannahnarrowedhereyes.
"Not on purpose."
Jaxonsmirked.
"Sure, sure. But tell me—did you hesitate before choosing me?"
Savannahscoffed.
"I should have thrown you under the bus."
"And yet."
Savannahrolledhereyes.
"You’re insufferable."
Jaxonleanedin,voicelowernow.
"But you’re still here, aren’t you?"
Savannah’sbreath hitched.
Becausehewasright.
Forsomestupid,inexplicable,wildlyself-destructivereason… Shewasstillhere.
Stillstandingnexttohim.
Stillfightingforhim.
Andworstofall?
Somepartofherdidn’tregretit.
ToBeContinued…
Chapter6:TheTrial’sShockingTwist
FromtheArchivesofBohiney.com:
“BREAKING:ACourtroom Bombshell—DidJaxonCrossJustOutmaneuvertheEntire U.S.Government?”
SavannahSteelehadsurvived alotinthepastsixmonths.
Afakeengagementthatspiraledinto themostchaoticromanceofalltime. Ahigh-speedboatchasethroughMonaco. Afakedeath,anactualFBIindictment,and waytoomanyinteractionswiththeIRS.
Butnoneofitcomparedtowhatwashappeningrightnow.
Becauserightnow,shewaswatchingherhusband,JaxonCross,casuallyflipanentire federaltrialupsidedown.
Theprosecutionwasstillreelingfromyesterday’sdisaster. Thejurylookedstressed.
Thejudgelookedlikehe hadagedfiveyearsovernight.
AndJaxon?
Jaxonlookedannoyinglysmug.
"Good morning, sweetheart," hemurmuredasSavannahsatbesidehim.
Savannahscowled.
"Jaxon, I swear to God, if you say one more word—"
Jaxonsmirked.
"What? That I’m about to win this case?"
Savannahgroaned.
Theworstpart?
Hemightberight.
Meanwhile,theInternetHadLostItsCollectiveMind
Thetrialofthe century waseverywhere.
Socialmediawasamess.
“Jaxon Cross actually looks like he’s having fun. This man is deranged.”
“Is Savannah Steele standing by her man or just experiencing legal Stockholm Syndrome?”
“I swear to God, if they walk free after ALL THIS, I will riot.”
Naturally,Bohiney.comwasthriving.
NEWHEADLINES:
“Jaxon Cross’s Final Defense—Will He Actually Pull This Off?”
“EXCLUSIVE: Savannah Steele Caught Giving Jaxon Side-Eye in Court”
“Viktor Orlov Breaks Silence—Says Trial Is ‘Boring’ and That He’s Planning Something Better”
RileyMercer,Savannah’sbestfriend,fearlessjournalist,andagentofchaos,kickedherfeet uponherdesk.
"I love my job."
Savannah,meanwhile,wastryingveryhardnottocommitacourtroomfelony.
JaxonCrossvs.TheUnitedStatesGovernment
Theleadprosecutor, clearlyexhausted,adjustedherglassesandfacedthejury.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we have presented overwhelming evidence that Mr. Cross engaged in offshore tax fraud, securities manipulation, and financial crimes at a level unprecedented in this country’s history."
Jaxonyawned.
Audibly.
Savannahelbowedhim intheribs.
"Jaxon. STOP antagonizing the government."
Jaxongrinned.
"Sweetheart, it’s my favorite hobby."
Theprosecutorturnedtowardhim.
"Mr. Cross, do you take this case seriously at all?"
Jaxonsmirked.
"Of course. It’s hilarious."
Thejurymurmured.
Thejudgerubbedhistemples.
Savannahwantedtoscream.
TheDefenseCallsItsFirstWitness—JaxonCross
SavannahhadassumedJaxonwould lethislawyerhandleeverything.
Sheshouldhaveknownbetter.
Because,ofcourse,Jaxoninsistedontestifying.
Savannahexhaledslowly.
"Jaxon, I need you to be normal for five minutes."
Jaxongrinned.
"Sweetheart, I have never been normal in my life."
Savannahburiedherfaceinherhands.
Andthen?
Jaxonstood.
Andthecourtroom helditsbreath.
TheTestimonyThatBroketheTrial
JaxonCrosswasridiculouslyconfident.
Tooconfident.
Savannahwas readytojumpoverthedeskandstranglehim.
Thedefenseattorneypacedinfrontofhim.
"Mr. Cross, did you knowingly engage in illegal offshore tax evasion?"
Jaxonsmirked.
"Absolutely not."
Theprosecutionscoffed.
"Mr. Cross, we literally have financial records proving you moved billions into offshore accounts."
Jaxonnodded.
"Sure. But legally, that’s not tax evasion."
Savannahfroze.
Becausethat?
Thatwasasetup.
Jaxonturnedtothejury, leaningforward.
"Let me explain something very simple to you all."
Theentireroomleanedin.
Jaxonsmiled.
"The reason I’m on trial? It’s not because I moved money offshore. It’s because I moved money offshore… legally."
Thecourtroomerupted.
TheIRSAbsolutelyLosesItsMind
SavannahstaredatJaxonlikehehadjustpersonallyendedtheU.S.economy.
Theprosecutorlookedlivid.
"Mr. Cross, are you seriously claiming that you followed every legal loophole available?"
Jaxonsmiled.
"Yes. That’s why they’re called loopholes."
Savannahchokedonair.
Thejurywhisperedtoeachother.
Thejudgebangedhisgavel.
"ORDER."
Jaxonleanedbackinhischair.
"Your Honor, I did nothing illegal. I just played the game better than the government."
Theprosecutorturnedred.
"But you—"
Jaxonshrugged.
"If they wanted me to pay taxes, they should have made better laws."
Thecourtroomdescendedintoabsolutechaos.
Meanwhile,ViktorOrlovWasPlottingSomethingWorse
ViktorOrlovhadbeenwatchingeverysecondofthetrial. And,tobefair?
Hewasmildlyimpressed.
JaxonCrosshadjust madeamockeryoftheentireU.S.financialsystem. Thatwasfun.
ButViktorwasn’twatchingJaxon.
HewaswatchingSavannah.
Andshe?
Shewaswavering.
Thephonebuzzed.
Atext.
"Shewon’tstaywithhimforever.Makeyourmovesoon."
Viktorsmirked.
"Oh, I intend to."
TheVerdict
Aftertwomorehoursoflegalchaos,thejudgefinallyhadenough.
Hesighed,rubbinghistemples.
"Due to recent testimony, and in light of the evidence presented…"
Thecourtroomhelditsbreath.
"This court finds Mr. Cross…"
Theworldpaused.
SavannahgrabbedJaxon’shandunderthetable.
Jaxonsqueezedback.
Andthen—
"Not guilty."
Thecourtroomexploded.
Jaxongrinned.
Savannahexhaledsharply.
Andjustlikethat?
Theyhadwon.
TheAftermath:JaxonCross,AnnoyingasEver
Bythetimetheyleftthecourtroom,Savannahwas stillinshock.
Jaxon,however,wasabsolutelythriving.
"Sweetheart," hesaid,grinning, "did you see the look on their faces?"
Savannahstaredathim.
"Jaxon. You just humiliated the entire U.S. government."
Jaxonshrugged.
"That’s what they get for underestimating me."
Savannahgroaned.
"I cannot believe I just helped you get away with this."
Jaxonleanedin.
"Sweetheart, you didn’t just help me. You chose me."
Savannah’sbreathhitched.
Becausehewasright. Shehad.
Andshehadnoideawhatitmeant.
ToBeContinued…
Chapter7:TheVerdict’sAftermath—Now EveryoneWantsThemDead
FromtheArchivesofBohiney.com:
“BREAKING:JaxonCrossWalksFree—AndNowtheU.S.Government,theIRS,and ViktorOrlovWantRevenge”
SavannahSteelehadjustsurvivedthetrialofthecentury.
Whichshouldhavemeantcelebration.
Champagne.
Abeachvacation.
Maybeevenasingledayofpeace.
Butno.
Becauseinsteadofenjoying theirnewfoundlegalfreedom,sheandJaxonwerecurrently runningfortheirlives.
ThroughthestreetsofManhattan.
Atmidnight.
Becauseapparently,winningafederalcaseagainsttheU.S.governmentcamewith consequences.
Namely?
TheIRShadofficiallyputabountyonJaxonCross.
TwelveHoursEarlier…
Savannahhadspenttheentiremorningtryingtoprocessthefactthatshe wasn’tgoingto prison.
Itfelt…wrong.
Likeshehadcheatedfate.
Likeshehadsomehowscammedherwayoutofalifesentence.
Which,tobefair,wasexactlywhatJaxonhaddone.
Savannahturnedtohim,stillinbed,lookingannoyinglyatpeacewithhimself.
"Jaxon."
Jaxon,half-asleep,smirked.
"Yes, sweetheart?"
"What the hell do we do now?"
Jaxonstretched.
"We enjoy life."
Savannahrolledhereyes.
"The IRS is literally hunting you."
Jaxonsigheddramatically.
"They can’t touch me. Legally, I did nothing wrong."
Savannahthrewapillowathim.
"Jaxon, do you know what the IRS does to people they can’t catch? THEY RUIN THEM."
Jaxonsmirked.
"Then let’s make sure they never catch me."
Savannahgroaned.
Meanwhile,theIRSWasPlottingRevenge
Inaverysecret,verygovernment-lookingoffice,ateamofIRSofficialssatinameeting labeledOPERATION:BRINGCROSSDOWN.
Amaninacheapsuitstoodattheheadofthetable.
"Ladies and gentlemen, Jaxon Cross just humiliated us in court."
"We cannot let this stand."
Awomanslammedafolderontothetable.
"We froze his accounts. We sent our best lawyers. And he still walked."
Anotheragent,sippingcoffee,muttered—
"We should’ve just assassinated him when we had the chance."
Theroomwentquiet.
Theleadagentnodded.
"Maybe it’s time we stop playing by the rules."
JaxonCross,theBillionaireMenace,MakesEverythingWorse
Bymid-afternoon,JaxonandSavannahwereholedupinhispenthouse,tryingtofigureout theirnextmove.
Savannahhadonesuggestion.
"Let’s lay low. No press, no scandals, no legal gray areas."
Jaxon,naturally,ignored her.
BecausebythetimeSavannahcheckedherphone,shesawthesingleworstheadline imaginable.
NEWHEADLINEFROMBOHINEY.COM:
“Jaxon Cross Spotted Buying a $500 Million Yacht—Does This Man Even Know He’s Supposed to Be Broke?”
Savannahthrewherphone.
"JAXON."
Jaxon,leaningagainstthecounter,sippingespresso,blinkedinnocently.
"Yes, darling?"
Savannahpointedatthe headline.
"You bought a YACHT?"
Jaxongrinned.
"Technically, Viktor Orlov bought it. I just stole it first."
Savannahscreamed.
Meanwhile,ViktorOrlovFinallyMakesHisMove
ViktorOrlovhadbeenwatchingthetrialfrom afar.
Andnow?
Nowhehadaplan.
BecauseJaxon?
Jaxonhadwonthecourtcase.
ButViktor?
Viktorwasn’tinterestedincourtrooms.
Viktorwasinterestedin winning.
Hesatinadarkpenthouse,staringatasinglemessageonhisphone.
"Savannahiswavering.Pushhernow."
Viktorsmirked.
"Time to remind her who the better billionaire is."
TheMomentEverythingGoestoHell
Savannahhadjust calmeddownfrom theyachtdisaster whenherphonerang.
Anunknownnumber.
Shehesitated.
Thenanswered.
"Hello?"
AfamiliarRussian-accentedvoicereplied.
"Savannah. You look exhausted."
Savannah’sentirebodywentcold.
"Viktor."
Jaxon,hearingthename,immediatelystiffened.
Savannahgrippedthephonetighter.
"What do you want?"
Viktorchuckled.
"Just a conversation. A proposal, if you will."
Savannahexhaledsharply.
"I’m not interested in anything you’re selling."
"Oh, but you will be."
Savannah’sstomachtwisted.
"Why?"
Andthen?
Viktorsaidtheonethingthatchangedeverything.
"Because I’m offering you a future where you’re not running for your life."
Silence.
Jaxonwatchedhercarefully.
Savannahlickedherlips.
"And what’s the price?"
Viktorsmiled.
"Leave Jaxon. Come to me. And I will make sure no one ever touches you again."
Savannah’sheartslammedintoherribs.
Becauseforthefirsttime—
Shehadarealchoice.
Jaxon,sensingherhesitation, stood.
"Sweetheart," hemurmured. "Hang up the phone."
Savannah’sfingerstightenedaroundthedevice.
Becausedeepdown?
Sheknew.
Whateverchoiceshemade?
Itwouldbepermanent.
Andforthefirsttimesincethisallstarted—
Shehadnoideawhatshewasgoingtodo.
ToBeContinued…
Chapter8:HappilyEverAfter(Pendinga FewFinalCrimes)
FromtheArchivesofBohiney.com:
“BREAKING:SavannahSteeleChoosesJaxonCross—ButWillTheirLoveSurviveOne LastBetrayal?”
SavannahSteelehadneverbeenmoreexhaustedinherlife.
Shehadsurvived:
Afakemarriagethatturnedvery,veryreal.
Afederaltrialthatshould’veendedinprison.
JaxonCrossbuyingayachtwithsomeoneelse’smoney.
Andnow?
Nowshewasstandinginthemiddleofhispenthouse,holdingherphoneinadeathgrip, whileViktorOrlov’svoicewhispered onefinaltemptationintoherear.
"Come with me, Savannah."
Jaxon,standingafewfeetaway,watchinghercarefully.
Becauseheknew.
Thiswasit.
Thefinalchoice.
Viktorcontinued.
"Leave him. Walk away from the chaos. I can give you something Jaxon never will."
Savannah’sthroatwasdry.
"And what’s that?"
Viktor’sanswerwassimple.
"Peace."
WhatDoes‘HappilyEverAfter’EvenMean?
Savannahhadspentmonthsrunning.
Fromthegovernment. FromViktor. Fromherself.
Butpeace?
Shewasn’tsuresheeven knewwhatthatlookedlike.
ShelookedatJaxon.
Andsuddenly,sheknew.
Peacewasn’twhatshe wanted.
Shewantedfire.
Shewantedrecklessness.
Shewantedamanwhomadelifefeellikeagoddamnadventure.
Andthat?
Thatwasn’tViktorOrlov. ItwasJaxonCross.
Savannahexhaledsharply. "Viktor."
Viktor’svoicewassmooth. "Yes?"
Savannahhungupthephone. Andjustlikethat?
Shehadchosen.
TheFinalGoodbyetoViktorOrlov
Viktorstaredathisphone,listeningto thedeadline.
Forthefirsttimeinhisentirelife,someonehadwalkedawayfrom him.
Hefinishedhisdrink.
Thensmiled.
"She chose chaos."
Hissecond-in-commandhesitated.
"Sir, should we retaliate?"
Viktorshookhishead.
"No. She made her choice. Let’s see how well she survives it."
Andwiththat?
ViktorOrlovdisappearedfromtheirlivesforever.
Maybe.
JaxonCross,theSmugHusbandfromHell
JaxonhadbeenwaitingtoseewhatSavannahwoulddo.
Andnowthathehadhisanswer?
Hewasgoingtomilkitforallitwasworth.
Savannahturnedtohim.
"I hate you."
Jaxongrinned.
"You love me."
Savannahthrewapillowathisface.
"You are the single most insufferable man on this planet."
Jaxoncaughtthepilloweffortlessly.
"And yet, you picked me anyway."
Savannahexhaled.
"I’m going to regret this, aren’t I?"
Jaxonsmirked.
"Absolutely."
Andthen?
Hekissedher. AndSavannah? Shelethim.
Becauseforbetterorworse,thiswasherlifenow.
Andshewouldn’ttradeitforanything.
HappilyEverAfter,Defined
ForSavannahSteeleandJaxonCross, happilyeverafterdidnotmeanpeace.
Itdidnotmeanquiet.
Itdidnotmeanasimplelife. No.
Forthem,happilyeveraftermeant:
Committingatleastoneminorfinancialcrimeperyear,justtokeeplifeexciting.
ArguingoverwhetherornotJaxonislegallyallowedtobuyanotheryacht.
Havingaweddingredo,thistimewithouttheFBIinvolved.
Livingintendifferentcountries,justincasetheIRSfinallylosesitspatience.
SavannahthreateningtodivorceJaxonweekly,andJaxonfindingincreasingly dramaticwaystomakeherstay.
And,mostimportantly—
Never,everbeingboring.
Becauselovewasn’tsupposedtobesafe. Itwassupposedtobeabsolutelyridiculous.
Andforthem?
Italwayswouldbe.
FinalScene
Jaxonwasalreadyscheming.
"Sweetheart," hesaidcasually, "how do you feel about buying an island?"
Savannah,half-asleepinbed,groaned.
"Jaxon, for the last time, we are NOT buying an island."
Jaxonignoredher.
"I was thinking something in the Caribbean. Maybe something tax-free."
Savannahgrabbedapillowandsmackedhim intheface.
"Go. To. Sleep."
Jaxonlaughed. AndSavannah?
Shesmiled.
Becauseyeah—thiswashappilyeverafter.
TheEnd.