Page 62 of Resolute

On our walk back to the car, Camila asks, “Wait, how did you know to get a duck for Ava?”

I smile, as I replay our conversation yesterday. “She told me she got her boo-boo chasing some swans at the park. I figured it was her favorite animal.”

Camila doesn’t say anything, but I can see the pleased smile that forms on her face. “See? I pay attention to the things that matter. And you and Ava matter to me”

“Thank you,” she says quietly.

I give her a wink. “Is there anything you need from the office?” I ask, and she frowns. “I was just thinking that if you have your bag with you, I can just drop you off at home.”

“Oh no, you don’t have to do that. It’s not necessary.”

“It absolutely is. I can’t let my fiancée ride the Tube when I can take her home.”

“I haven’t agreed to your proposal yet.”

“It’s just a matter of time.”

She sticks out her tongue at me, and I chuckle. This woman is light and fun, never a dull moment with her.

We drive in comfortable silence, which I’m grateful for—because all I have in my head is the paperwork I need to have ready for when she says yes.

And a ring. I also need to get her a ring.

When we get to her flat, I park and help her get out of the car.

“When do you need an answer?” she asks as we stand by the building door.

“As soon as possible. There are many things to get in place.”

She nods as she releases a breath.

“Okay, I’ll think about it.”

“I’ll see you tomorrow.” She gives me a smile and a wave. Before disappearing into her building, she pauses.

“And thank you for Ava’s present. She’s going to love it. Are you sure you don’t want to come in and give it to her?”

“No, no. I don’t want to impose. Or, as you said—I don’t want to bribe her.”

Camila rolls her eyes, but the smile on her lips remains.

I chuckle as I make my way back to my car. But underneath the laughter, doubt nags at me. What if, after spending more time with me, Camila decides this whole arrangement is a travesty?

The ball is in her court now.

I hate this—not being in control, not knowing how this will play out. But if I want this to work, I need to trust her and give her time to figure things out.

Chapter 16

Camila Flores

Itake the stairs one at a time as I use the wall for extra support, my legs feeling like jelly after the afternoon I just had.

Never in a million years did I think a man like Mr. Godoy would propose to me. I mean, he looks like a Greek god and has more money than most. Why would he ask me to marry him? This has to be a joke. How could I explain to Ava that I’m marrying a man just for money? I can’t do that to my girl.

Oh, God, I need to talk to somebody.

“Mummy!” Ava squeals as I finally enter our flat.

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