Page 119 of Taming the CEO

This was escalating far more than I'd anticipated.

"Your daughter and I are moving into unfamiliar territory for both of us. We’re exclusive, and while I'm sure that you would like to know more, we're figuring it all out as we go."

Exclusive! I liked that. Maddox had given Dad a good explanation, making me wonder if he'd actually thought this through before we got here.

Dad frowned. I was certain he’d respond, but to my astonishment, he nodded and said, "Yes. Every couple has their own rhythm of finding their way.” His expression was thoughtful, then changed instantly to a sterner look as he continued, “But if I hear one word suggesting that you’re disrespecting her—"

Damn, I chanted victory too soon.

"Dad!" I warned.

"One thing you can be sure of. I will never, not ever, disrespect your daughter," Maddox said adamantly.

Aaaaand my heart was full. I wanted to jump him and kiss him right in Dad's living room, but that wouldn't do.

Dad's face broke into a smile as he said, "You're a good man, Maddox." He clapped his hands together. "Okay, now let's go through that contract. I'm going to bring a bottle of champagne from the back.”

“I can go get it, Dad,” I offered.

"No, you just sit down. I'll get it.”

"I’ll put the glasses on the table."

As he went to the back, I opened an overhead cabinet, getting out three glasses. I was shaking for some reason.

Stepping up behind me, Maddox put an arm around my waist and his mouth at my ear. "Relax, babe. Everything is going fine."

"I know, but I have a lot of adrenaline. I don't know why I'm so on edge."

"I promise to rid you of it once we're home," he said seductively.

Well, I'd stopped being jittery, but only because I blushed like hell.

"Maddox," I admonished.

He laughed at me. "I'm sorry, I can't resist. You're so delicious when you're red in the cheeks. With your red hair and green eyes, it's exquisite."

I opened my mouth but didn't say anything else as Dad came back. He was too busy uncorking the bottle of bubbly to notice my blush. I startled when the cork finally went off.

He poured generously into the glasses, and then we held them up and clinked them together.

Dad flashed my favorite heartfelt smile. "To starting over! And for my girl finally bringing home someone I can roast."

"Dad," I said.

"What? You haven't given me the opportunity over the years. My skills got rusty."

"I can assure you that your skills are perfectly fine," Maddox said.

We all laughed as we downed a bit of the champagne. This evening was taking an unexpected turn.

"You know what? Before we start, I'm going to grab some logs from the back," Dad said.

"I can get them," Maddox said. "Just tell me exactly where they are."

"Sure, they're in the barn. You won't miss it. It's just the back of the house."

Maddox went down the corridor Dad pointed out.

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