Page 184 of Holiday Hire

He finally admits, "Uncle Jagger and I were looking up stuff when I stayed at his house."

Alexander sighs. "You're not staying at his place again."

"Aw, Dad, come on!"

I stifle a giggle.

Alexander turns to me. "You find this funny? There's inappropriate stuff on that site eleven-year-olds shouldn't see."

I try to keep a straight face and shake my head. "No."

"I'm almost twelve!" Wilder claims.

Alexander narrows his eyes further. "It'll still be inappropriate."

"Ugh. It's so unfair. The other kids in my class?—"

"I suggest you change the subject," Alexander threatens.

Wilder huffs. "Fine. But can I turn the room into my man cave?"

Alexander shakes his head. "No. Now, it's time to tend to the horses. Boys, you want to come?"

They practically run out the door.

Alexander pulls me to him and slides his hand in my hair, giving me another long kiss until I'm breathless. "Don't forget you're mine, Phoebe," he says and squeezes my ass.

I giggle, shoving his chest. "I won't. Now, go."

He grabs my hand and stares at the ring. "It looks good on you. It's just how I imagined."

I bite on my smile. It really is the perfect ring. I never imagined what my ring would look like, but Alexander nailed it.

"Admit it. I did good," he teases.

I rise on my tiptoes and give him another peck. "You did more than good. It's perfect," I praise.

He grins, gives me another kiss, and pats my ass. "I'll see you at breakfast."

"Sounds good."

I stroll over to the main house and go into the kitchen. Georgia's been baking all week, and this morning she's making sugar-free muffins for Sebastian.

"Hey," she says, beaming at me.

"Hi. Where's everyone else?"

"Paisley and Willow went out last night. They didn't get in until late." Georgia's lips twitch. She adds, "Ruby went to give them some headache medication and get them out of bed. Evelyn called to say she's struggling a bit too. She'll be over later."

I admit, "It's strange only seeing one person in this kitchen."

She nods. "Yeah, I know. I don't think I've ever been in it alone before."

"Really?"

She shakes her head. "No, not that I can recall. By the way, I'm happy you're joining the family."

"Thanks, so am I."

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