Page 90 of My Not So Wicked Boss (My Not So Wicked 3)

“You say that now, darling. You may rethink our entire relationship after you meet the motley crew.”

I took Miles’s hand between my own. “I’m sorry, but you’re stuck with me. We signed a contract remember?”

He glanced over at me. “That I do, my love.”

“So, what are your plans for the epilogue?”

“You’ll see.” He wagged his brows.

“Why so mysterious?”

“I’m just trying to keep the magic alive in our relationship.”

I laughed at him, but magical was a good way to describe what we had together. It was by no means perfect. Miles was set in his ways and he was still adjusting to not only dad life, but being a partner. For the most part he was amazing, and he tried his best to be present, but it didn’t come naturally for him, and more than anything, I think that frustrated him more than it ever frustrated me.

Sometimes it was hard for me too. Especially letting Chloe grow up. Miles was less cautious by nature and he had to remind me at times to let go of the reins I had held so tightly. Of course, that made Miles Chloe’s favorite. It gave me holy envy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I was happy Chloe had a Miles in her life. Every girl deserved one.

When we pulled into the Ranch in front of the main house, it looked as if we were late to a party we hadn’t been invited to. I recognized Shelby and Ryder’s truck, and Jenna and Brad’s minivan—they were really embracing parenthood. We tried to talk Jenna out of it, but she loved the roominess. Bobby Jay’s truck towered above them all. I assumed that meant that Emma and Sawyer were probably around too. I wasn’t sure if I should feel slighted or not.

“I’ll get your door,” Miles interrupted me before I could decide if I wanted to get out. He hustled around and opened my door. He took a moment to peer into my eyes. “Aspen, I do love you.”

I tilted my head. “Is there something I should know about? Are you all right?” He was acting awfully strange.

“Everything is perfect. You’re perfect.” He leaned in and brushed my hair back before kissing my forehead. He lingered for a moment before trailing soft kisses down my cheek. With each touch, my pulse ticked up. His lips teased my own, skimming them, taking small tastes here and there until they came crashing down on mine. His tongue invited my lips to part. As always, my lips immediately accepted his invitation. My hands ran through his hair. He pushed me farther back in the car while thoroughly exploring my mouth. I liked this research trip. But I loved him and how he made me feel. His kisses made me know I was wanted and adored.

He groaned against my mouth. “As lovely as this is, we have some research we should really get to.”

He stood upright and pulled me along with him.

“Where are we going in the dark?”

“You’ll see.” He buttoned up my coat and wrapped a scarf around my neck. “Are you warm enough, darling?”

I took his hand and leaned into him. “Always, when I’m with you.”

He kissed my head and we took a trail leading away from the main house. I pushed out any jealous thoughts of being excluded and tried to focus on being in the moment with Miles. While the path was clear, snow covered most of the ground. The glow of the moon made it glisten in the dark. It was like walking in a winter wonderland.

Miles was quiet but attentive, making sure to keep me steady on the gravel path. Several times he looked down at me with an adoring gaze. It didn’t take long for me to realize we were heading for the amphitheater. Something was off, though. If I wasn’t mistaken, I saw a shimmer of light in the distance. I didn’t remember there ever being any lighting in the amphitheater. The closer we got, the tighter Miles held me to him.

Just as we were on the cusp of our destination the source of light came into view. The pergola was lit up in hundreds of twinkle lights. Pink rose petals covered the snow-covered ground beneath it. I stopped and placed my hand over my mouth. “What is this?”

Miles placed his gloved hand on my cheek. “This is how Dexter’s and Isabella’s story ends and ours begins, I hope.” He led me to the pergola.

I paused on the outer edge. This was hallowed ground. Ground I never thought I would step foot on. Miles recognized my hesitation. He removed his gloves and placed them in his coat pocket before cupping my cheeks with his warm hands. “My love, finish this walk with me. Let us say goodbye to our past demons here and now.”

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