Page 100 of If You Give a CEO a Chance

She leans in and whispers, “You did bring me a present right?”

Marlow looks at me, mouthing, “I’m sorry.”

I give her a subtle shake of my head, reassuring her that Lola’s question doesn’t bother me. It’s refreshing to be around someone who isn’t afraid to speak their mind, especially when there’s a present at stake.

Lola’s gaze follows my movements as I take a small rainbow gift bag from my purse. “This is for you,” I say, handing it to her.

“Mom, can I open it now, pretty please?” She flashes her best puppy dog eyes.

“Sure, Lolabug, but just this one gift. Then it’s time to skate, okay?”

“Yay.” Lola grins, eagerly yanking out the tissue paper to reveal the charm bracelet I picked out for her at the local toy shop, complete with a hockey stick, a dog, a rainbow, and a unicorn. “It’s so pretty,” she says, holding out her arm. “Can you put it on me please?”

“Of course, sweetie,” I reply, fastening it around her wrist. “And there’s one more gift in there.” I motion to the bag. “Harrison told me you were a fan of candy.”

Her eyes light up as she takes out the last of the tissue paper, squealing when she spots the chocolate bars wrapped in unicorn parchment paper. “These are for me too?” she asks, clutching them to her chest.

I nod. “I made them just for you, but you might want to hold off on eating one until you get home. I’m afraid there isn’t enough to share with all your friends.”

She’s quick to stuff them back into the bag. “I don’t want to share with anyone.”

Marlow laughs. “Your dad might have something to say about that when he finds out they’re homemade.”

“If you promise not to tell, I’ll share with you.” Lola smirks, sounding like a seasoned negotiator.

Marlow does her best to suppress a grin. “We’ll talk about it later. Your friends are waiting for you.” She motions to the bench area, where a group of kids around Lola’s age are putting their skates on, excited chatter filling the air.

“One second,” Lola says, turning back to me and throwing her arms around my neck. “Thanks for the bracelet and chocolate, Fallon. I think Harrison should keep you.”

My heart fills with warmth as I hug her back.

I steal a glance at Harrison, our eyes meeting with a silent recognition passing between us. After seeing him sick and in the hospital, it puts things in perspective. And now, watching howhe interacts with his family makes my heart swell. It’s made me realize how much I want a future with him.

I want to be his person.

His confidant.

His lover.

His.

What we share has been years in the making, and while it might be frightening as hell, I want to take that leap of faith and see where this leads.

Lola pulls back and runs over to where Harrison is standing.

“Let’s go, Uncle Harrison.” She practically drags him toward her friends.

“Sure thing, ladybug.” He glances over at me. “Will you be okay here?”

“Fallon can hang out with me. I could use some help setting up the snack table,” Marlow says, flashing me a smile. “Have fun, you two.” She waves as Harrison and Lola head to the benches.

I follow her over to a corner where several tables and chairs have been set up. She brings several boxes over and unpacks tablecloths, paper plates, cups, and other party essentials.

I brought along a few gluten-free snacks that I prepared for Harrison so he could eat with everyone else. Fortunately, all the kitchenware at the cabin is brand new, so I didn’t have to worry about cross-contamination.

“Please don’t judge me when you see what food I brought,” Marlow warns, taking out a box of Cheez-Its, a bowl of fruit skewers, and a tray full of cupcakes. “Cooking isn’t my forte and Lola was adamant we serve her favorite snacks.”

“I would never,” I assure her, taking one of the tablecloths and draping it over a table. “I may be a private chef, but I survive on Diet Coke, popcorn, and leftovers. And who doesn’t love Cheez-Its? They’re elite.”

---