Page 65 of Unwrapping Romance

“How was your Thanksgiving?” he asked.

“It was fine.”

“Did Ellie have fun at the parade?”

“She did. She was all smiles.”

“I know that warmed your heart, Jack.”

“Be quiet, Daniel.”

“Where is she and Sierra today?”

“I told Sierra to stay home and take Ellie shopping for some toys.”

“On Black Friday?” He laughed. “Are you crazy? I bet she put up one hell of a fight.”

“She did, but she knows she doesn’t have a choice. I’m her boss, and if she wants to keep her job, she has to listen to me.”

“You’re different.” His eyes narrowed.

“Different how?” My brows furrowed.

“I’m not sure. I think you like playing house with Sierra.”

“Knock it off. She’s helping me with Ellie.”

“But she’s in your bed every night. Am I correct?”

“Maybe. What does that have to do with anything?”

“I’ve never known you to sleep with the same woman more than twice, let alone keep one in your bed every night. Could it be that Scrooge Atlas is falling in love with another human being?”

“Really, Daniel? Why do you have to make such a big deal about this?”

“Because it is a big deal, Jack. I’ve known you for years, and all of a sudden, you’re changing right before my eyes.”

“Claire called last night and wanted to talk to Ellie.”

“Did you let her?”

“No. Ellie was sleeping. I told her not to call again.”

“She’s Ellie’s mother, Jack.”

“I don’t care!” My voice raised. “She abandoned her.”

“So did you. Have you forgotten that?” he said.

“I did it to protect her. That’s totally different. My life is unraveling, Daniel.” I ran my hand down my face. “All of a sudden, I’m raising my daughter and?—”

“And what, Jack? You’re falling in love with Sierra? You can admit it. It won’t kill you.”

I turned my chair around and stared out at the city, blanketed with snow.

“Maybe I am.”

“Wow. Look at that. Jack Atlas admitted he’s falling in love, and nothing bad happened. I have a meeting to get to. We’ll talk later.”

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