Page 101 of The Grump

This was already making things just a bit better, but still. “When did you start talking to him?” I asked, fiddling with my fingers behind my back.

“When I decided that I wanted to revamp the confectionery business, I put out feelers. I went to a business lunch with a few people in the industry and told them about my plan. I encouraged them to spread the word and tell anyone who was interested to get in touch with my company.”

“But that means you never gave the confectionery a chance.” I was getting upset now. “I thought you weren’t going to decide until after Christmas?”

“And I was, but putting out feelers means I’d know if there was any interest at all. It’s efficient,” he explained, and I actually started to laugh.

“Of course! I forgot.”

“I wasn’t going to make any definitive move before Christmas, though, no matter what.”

“Oh, Xander. Why didn’t you tell me there was even any interest? I know I always shut down business talk, but this is major.”

Xander tilted closer, touching my cheek. “I never wanted to spoil our moments together by bringing this up. I knew it would sour the mood. I was too hungry for every moment I could spend with you to ruin it. I was completely selfish, and I’m sorry.”

“Then please be honest with me right now. When is it going to happen?”

“What?”

“The sale.”

He shook his head. “It’s not going to happen.”

“What?” My heart was now truly out of control. Not only because he was touching me, but also because I was starting to feel hopeful for the first time since this morning.

“We’re not going to sell the confectionery.”

“Are you serious? But why? What made you change your mind?”

“Well, I will be making some changes. But we can discuss them with Avery in the new year. I want to grow the business, but in a way that stays personal. You convinced me, Bailey, showing me all the passion you put into it.”

Warmth invaded my heart all of a sudden. I put a hand on my chest. “Xander, are you serious?”

“Yes. Why is that so hard to believe?”

“Because you’re so stubborn. I didn’t think you’d change your mind.”

“I don’t think anyone ever changed my mind until you.” I smiled at him, and though I tried to make it small and delicate, of course I couldn’t. I could feel it taking over my entire face.

“You’ve shown me how important other things are besides efficiency and numbers.”

“Now you’re trying to talk your way into my pants,” I teased.

“Of course I am, but I also mean every word. Bailey, you’ve enriched my life in ways I can’t even put into words. You mean everything to me. Please believe that I’d never blindside you with something like that. I love you far too much to hurt you.”

I closed my eyes, putting my hands on my chest. “I want to take a moment to savor these words and keep them right here.”

“Fuck, I love you more with every passing second, I swear.”

“Not more than I love you, Xander. Today, after that guy left, I realized that I was mad, but I also loved you far too much. So that’s why I didn’t answer the phone. I wasn’t sure what to do. I didn’t want to fight.”

“Because it’s Christmas.”

I opened one eye. “And because I love you.”

He grinned. “Glad we got that settled.”

Xander glanced around. “You know, I’ve never been to a bonfire celebration.”

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