Page 50 of Resolute

Ava tells us to relax while she takes the plates to the kitchen.

I nod my agreement and look marveled at how this tiny human is so amazing and full of life.

“So, what movie would you like to watch, Boss Man?” Ava asks.

Camila responds for me. “Sweetie, we have taken a lot of time from Mr. Godoy’s day as it is. I think he needs to get going.”

I raise an eyebrow, and she blushes.

“Please, call me Vicente,” I say gently.

Camila presses her lips together as she nods.

“And since I cleared my schedule for the day, I would love to stay. But that’s up to you, Camila.”

Ava puts her hands together like she’s praying. “Mummy, please say yes. Pretty, please.”

Camila sighs, but a gorgeous smile spreads her lips. “Okay, if Vicente,” she says, then pauses, testing my name.

Anddamn, I love the way it sounds on her lips.

“If Vicente is okay with it, he’s welcome to stay.”

Ava does a little dance, and I chuckle.

“Now if you’ll excuse me, I’d like to change before we choose a movie.”

Camila disappears into her room, and Ava holds my hand, walking me to the sofa. Her little hand is warm, and for a moment, it feels like I’ve held her hand her entire life. It feels right, and that thought startles me.

None of my friends have kids. They’re either married to their jobs or, if they are actually married, they’ve chosen not to have kids. The only person I know who wants kids, is my sister who’s pregnant at the moment.

I have zero experience with children—but so far, spending time with Ava has been a joy.

“Thank you for agreeing to stay, Boss Man.”

I smile, again unable to form a full sentence. “My pleasure.”

Camila comes out of her room wearing black yoga pants and an oversized pink sweater, her hair in a messy bun on top.

Ava moves away from me and pats the space she vacated for her mum to sit down. Camila thinks about it for a moment, but takes a seat before her daughter can say anything.

I move a little to give her space, but her scent invades my nostrils—soft and sweet.

Just like her.

It’s going to be torture sitting so close to her and not being able to touch her.

We start watchingEncanto, and Ava dances in her seat the entire time.

“So you’re Colombian?” I ask in a quiet voice.

Camila smiles at me and nods. “Yes, I was born in Barbosa, a small town north of Medellín.”

I nod as I think about Colombia. Medellín is one of the largest cities in the country, and if I’m not mistaken, it’s in the mountains—like Alamo Peaks.

“Well, I’m sure you know I’m Chilean,” I say.

She gives me a blinding smile. “Yes, I mean—you’re my boss. I’m supposed to know a few things about you.”

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