Total pages in book: 156
Estimated words: 158829 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 794(@200wpm)___ 635(@250wpm)___ 529(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 158829 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 794(@200wpm)___ 635(@250wpm)___ 529(@300wpm)
“I’ve never wanted anything more,” I say sincerely.
He smiles without a hint of his usual smart-assery for once.
“Cupid got you good, huh? Never thought I’d see the day. Maybe there’s hope for you yet.”
I’m about to tell him where I hope he goes when my office door opens.
A blond drink of radiance sails into the room, stealing my soul like she does every day.
“Oh, sorry. I didn’t know you were in a meeting...”
“Not anymore. It’s almost time for the party, isn’t it? Let’s go.”
Her cheeks redden around her smile, and dammit, I can’t help but grin back.
As I push out my chair and she bounces into my arms, I don’t even care about Keenan’s smug smile.
“I’ll go on ahead of you guys and scope it out to make sure they’re ready. This is just as much an 'our butts are saved' bash as it is a going away party.” Keenan walks out the door, leaving us alone.
Finally.
“I missed you,” I say, kissing the top of Piper’s head.
“What? You saw me a few hours ago.” She giggles.
“And I can’t stand it when you’re not around. That’s why we’re doing this.”
“Yeah. I love you.”
She burrows into me like the rare, beautiful creature she is, her warm breath tingling on my neck.
Call me hopelessly addicted.
I don’t care.
No matter how many evenings we share in front of the fireplace with Andy, no matter how many stolen kisses, no matter how many nights blur by in fits of gasping passion, it’s never enough.
“Love you, too.” I close my arms around her possessively.
We fall into another sticky kiss that strokes my dick hard before I rip myself away.
“We should go.” She gently taps my chest. “Your staff put a ton of work into this thing for us. We have to show up.”
Together, we take the elevator down to the large conference room that’s been decorated with regional themes from everywhere we have Winthrope properties. Each table has a small game and its own food booth.
Piper heads for France and picks up a bowl of cremé brulee. I follow her.
“How did I know you’d go for the best dessert country first?” I take a shot of brandy.
“Pippy, you’re here!” Maisy comes bounding in with her dad behind her.
Piper hugs her little sister while I shake hands with her old man. Damn, he’s looking better, and I’m glad I’m part of the reason why.
“I’m so glad you guys came! It feels weird not seeing you every day,” Piper says.
She’s been staying with me ever since we got back from the conference. I’m not the least bit sorry.
“You’ll have to get used to it when we’re in Europe for three months,” I say, wrapping my arms around her waist.
“Livin’ the dream!” Maisy agrees. Genuine happiness and maybe a spark of jealousy twinkles in her eyes.
“I’ll take you somewhere for winter break, Mais. I promise,” Piper tells her sister.
“About this European getaway,” Harold says, clearing his throat. “I trust you plan to take care of my daughter, Winthrope?”
“Absolutely, sir.”
We lock eyes.
I also know damn well I’m planning to ruin her every night and probably most mornings too, but he doesn’t need to know that.
“Don’t let her out of your sight unless she’s with your grandfolks,” he says, frowning like she’s fifteen and going off on a band trip for the first time.
Piper throws her head back and laughs.
“Dad, don’t encourage him. He’s already crazy enough. I’ve traveled alone plenty of times.”
“Yeah, well, that was before Pat Bateman tried to break your arm. You’re lucky he’s in custody, or I’d put him somewhere worse, let me tell you.” He tugs on his flannel sleeve, rolling his fist. “But I reckon he’s proven he can keep you safe, honey.”
“I’ll take care of her, Harold. Don’t worry.” I drape a protective arm around Piper, drawing her closer.
“I’m more worried about who’s taking care of you. Don’t forget your follow-up next week,” Piper says.
“Oh, I’ll be fine with Maisy,” her dad fusses. “I keep telling you, I don’t feel the least bit sick anymore. Had to take up night walks just to burn off all this energy. You just won’t believe me.”
“I’ll keep him entertained, guys.” Maisy smiles.
Then Jenn Landers appears at our side. “Sorry I’m late! Just got off a phone call with a new influencer for the Chicago property. It’s that guy you wanted months ago who wouldn’t give us the time of day.”
I smile, loving how they’re all crawling back now that the truth is out.
Jenn glances at the small bowl in Piper’s hand and beams. “...is that cremé brulee?”
Piper nods. “French station.”
Jenn darts behind us, grabs her own dessert, and moves beside Piper again.
“I’m so pumped about your big TikTok relaunch! Especially now that you’re focusing on places I might actually be able to afford. Someday,” she adds.
“Travel should be for everyone. I hope it’s a hit,” Piper says.