Page 81 of All the Promises We Break

“Not like that. It wasn’t just being hurt or sad. It was so full of sorrow. You told me all the reasons why you were sad. Wedealt with a couple of them. I know that you’ll be great with your dance. That goes without saying. I need to sit with the non-pregnancy piece. I have this unexpected reaction inside me.”

“What is it?”

My arms pull tighter around her. “I know you’re not ready. I know it’s not something we can do any time soon, but even knowing you weren’t really pregnant and simply late, I feel this ache.”

“I knew you would. That’s why I didn’t know if I was going to say anything at all. It’s a rare thing, too rare with my IUD. I panicked. I should have just realized the stress of everything on me. Something else happened that scared me more.”

“Which was?”

“I was happy about it too for a fraction of a second.”

“I want it to be a decision we make together, Viper. When it’s right for you, it’s right for me.”

“I don’t want to fight like that again, Eli. Ever.”

I gently pull her legs over mine. “I promise that too.”

Chapter Thirty-Three

Dylan

Anna makes it possible for us to work the next couple of days from home. Eli needed the extra quiet, and we needed the uninterrupted time to go over all the projects that were in the pipeline. I’ve learned so much by just watching Eli in his element. I come with ideas, but the structure is more difficult.

He has this gift of being able to look at all the pieces, instantly making three avenues for each client without breaking a sweat. I don’t think I would have gotten this type of hands-on learning with my father. I would have been along for the ride, not in the hole getting dirty. I like getting dirty.

I’ve been so hyper focused on all the work I’ve been doing with Sam and Lucy for the Roark Foundation, I didn’t see many, if any, of the other projects the company was trying to take on. AnSa is looking at a global campaign for the conservation of wetlands, doing an overhaul of the regional focus for a new business mentorship program for all high school junior and seniors—regardless of geographic or demographic disadvantages—as well as the program Eli and I started with theRoark’s additional funding. This division is doing so much good in the world. I’m so proud to have my new name.

I’ve been forcing Eli to schedule breaks throughout the day. If I can get him in this habit, I won’t worry as much. Just after lunch, while I’m lying on the floor of our apartment starfish-style, he decides to join me.

“Excuse me, Mrs. Sawyer, but this was too inviting to pass up.”

“I felt like a good stretch. Now, I have a handsome weighted blanket.”

“I feel like we should go back to the office tomorrow. Hayley’s done with all her introductory paperwork and is settled in the art department. It would be a good opportunity for us to show how we operate independently and as a group. I want the bullshit doubt put to bed.”

“Well, boss, it seems you draw power from me.”

“Ugh. Don’t call me that.”

“Do you prefer, sir?” Elijah quiets my words, laughing with his lips. We vine with each other on the plush rug until we need to come up for air. “Sir it is,” I laugh.

I’ve been in and out of the main office doors thousands of times and never thought too much about it. Today is different. I’m walking in as a full-time employee, not an intern. I’m married to the president, which means I’m now forever a part of the Sa on the wall. Last, and certainly not least, I don’t have to hide anything from anyone anymore.

I don’t have to be careful about what I say and remember who I said it to. I’ve lived most of my adult life that way. It’s so freeing not to. Eli walks me to my new office, which I share with Candice. Levi decided to get an advanced degree so he’ll join us next year after graduation.

“Promise me you’ll take it slow.”

“I will. You have my word.” Eli kisses the back of my hand before he kisses my lips. “See you in the boardroom at eleven. Oh, by the way, look in your bottom desk drawer.”

Eli smirks as he walks away. The hand that was holding mine slides down into his pants pocket. Even on his way down the hall, he looks taller, lighter, brighter. He looks like the best version of himself I’ve seen in a long time. Anna waves back down the hall at me before following Eli in his office and closing the door.

Out of the frying pan and into the fire.

“Hey, roomie! Welcome to the jungle.” Candice surprises me with my favorite tea.

“Hi. I’m glad to be back in the office. It’s weird too. I’ve been working, just not here. I like being around people again.”

“If it’s people you want, people you’ll get. Our office can be a zoo.”

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