Page 99 of Enchanting the CEO

"How come?" I asked.

"I don't know. Everything's just so loud, and all of you are saying—"

"What’s on our minds without any filter whatsoever," I finished for her. "You find that appealing?"

"I think it's awesome that you don't tiptoe around and just give one another the business."

"You're not wrong."

When the trio came into sight, I felt Diane melt against me. "Oh, he's so cute today."

"You like kids?" I asked her.

"You know I do. I think they're adorable, not that I've been around too many. Oh, just look at Ben. He's so precious."

"Hey, Diane," Penny said after wishing Grandfather a happy birthday. Spencer was carrying Ben, and Diane's gaze was glued to him.

"Can I take over the world's most spoiled nephew?" I asked.

"Sure."

I took him easily from Spencer. Diane was right at my side, cooing at him and smiling, then kissing his head. I liked seeing her with him. She was so at ease, already showering him with affection as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

"All right, let's get the party started," Grandmother said.

As everyone went to load their plates, Leo nodded at me. Maddox and Nick were next to him. I instantly knew Leo had news and joined them right away.

“What’s this about?” I asked.

“Dad. The property is cleared to be used as a hotel,” Leo informed me.

"I want to see it," I said immediately.

"Why?" Maddox asked.

"Because I want to buy it. And build the distillery and the hotel there.”

Maddox looked at me intently. “I have an idea. It's been percolating in my mind for a while. You don't have to decide now, just keep it in mind.”

“I’m all ears.”

"Let's go into business together. I’d handle the hotel, and you can focus on the distillery."

I didn't see that coming. It had never occurred to me before. We’d always focused on our respective businesses, but the idea instantly took root in my mind.

“I’d like that.” The more I thought about it, the more I wanted him as my partner.

"Besides," Maddox said with a smirk, "you're already starting to resemble Colton a bit too much when it comes to being a workaholic."

I grunted. "Will everyone give it a rest? The bar is new. It needs more of my attention."

"Exactly. I've got more time to spare than you do," Maddox said. In a more serious tone, he added, "And I've always liked the idea of adding something new to the Whitley legacy."

Leo nodded. "I'll make arrangements. It might take a while because the owner communicates at a slug’s pace, but I'll let you know once everything is in motion."

"Thanks," I said. “Now, I’m starving.”

“Yeah, let’s get food or everyone will be suspicious if we keep talking,” Nick agreed.

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