Page 37 of The Homewrecker's Fate

“While I appreciate you looking out for our firm, I want you to know that it isn’t necessary to go above and beyond in your condition. You have proven yourself time and again. Your work speaks for itself, and I promise you, no matter what, we will do whatever is necessary to keep you on here with us.”

The knowing look he gave me made me wonder if he was worried that I would jump ship after my friend left her position. I didn’t bother to give him any reassurances because I honestly didn’t know how things would work out. If they continued as they were, then there wouldn’t be any issue with me maintaining my position.

“I mean that. If you have any further problems with anyone – I do mean anyone – in this firm, I want you to bypass HR and come straight to me. I’ll handle the problem.”

“Yes sir,” I agreed and rose to gather my things.

“Do you have plans for the holidays?”

“I think I’m just going to relax and get some much-needed sleep when not spending time with my mom.”

“Sounds like a good plan. We’ll see you next week.” He tapped the side of the door on his way out, as if he was sealing those words into a pact or something. Then, he was gone. I was left to finish shutting down everything, so I could leave for our extended Fourth of July holiday. While it was normally just a three-day weekend for most places, our company gave us a full week off with pay. It was one of the more family-oriented things they did that I would appreciate in the coming years if everything worked out. It allowed the parents with children who were off during the summer to enjoy some family time.

My message tone on my cell went off as I was leaving, and I looked down to see that it was Braxton. There was no hiding the smile on my face as I read his text.

Brax: A little birdie told me you have a whole week off. Be prepared to be wooed, sweetheart!

Avi: Is it a surprise or can you tell me what this wooing will entail?

I sent the text while in the elevator. Whoever had gotten on with me pushed the ground floor button, so I didn’t need to bother.

Brax: A surprise, of course. Only the best for you!

My grin grew as I sent my response.

Avi: Can’t wait for it. See you soon!

“You look happy,” the man on the elevator with me stated. I turned to see Rich there and was immediately gobsmacked by his presence. More to the point, by the fact that I hadn’t even noticed he was there with me.

“I didn’t realize it was you in here with me.” His brows rose immediately in surprise or question. I didn’t care which.

“You seemed a bit preoccupied with your phone.”

“Not your business, Rich.”

“I know that. I’m sorry. I’m so fucking sorry about everything, Aviva. I wish I could go back and change everything, the way I handled it all. I wish I could have…” He sighed deeply. “I guess there’s not really much point in telling you what I truly wish for.”

“There really isn’t.” My answer was curt while I turned to stare at the elevator door.

“I know you hate me, but I would really like to be able to have a sit down with you sometime to talk about how things will work once the baby is here.”

“When I’m ready and not a moment before,” I explained as the door thankfully dinged and then opened. I’d like to say I ran off the elevator, but my body had shifted enough to make sudden movement a bit awkward. I took my time leaving the elevator and walked with my head held high until I was outside and met with the start of my surprise date.

“Sweetheart,” Brax huffed as his eyes latched on to mine. I moved to him as quickly as possible and was in his arms, breathing in his unique mix of sweet and spice that I had grown addicted to. I felt his muscles tense beneath me and figured Rich had followed me out of the building finally. I turned to see him standing there taking in the fact that I had walked away from him and straight into Brax’s arms.

Rich nodded, though he was unable to hide the grim look that turned his mouth down and slumped his shoulders. Thankfully, he walked away immediately.

Brax turned to pull the passenger door of his car open, “We’ll come back for your car. It’s safe to leave it in the garage here, right?”

“Absolutely,” I agreed as my handsome man leaned in to help me with my seat belt. “Brax,” I huffed his name into his ear. He turned and before he could question me, I leaned forward and took his lips with my own in a sweet kiss that I savored so much it made my toes curl inside my sort of ugly, but sensible shoes.

“What was that for?” He asked when he pulled away.

“Because I really needed that surprise and you delivered.”

Brax didn’t say another thing until he was buckled into the driver’s side of his car. “Was he harassing you?”

I shook my head. “No, he’s not even the reason I needed to see you. I didn’t realize he got on the elevator with me because I was too wrapped up in your text.” He grinned at that.

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