Page 73 of Ship Happens

Ethan raises an eyebrow, following enough of the conversation to understand the question.

“Yes, their angle is the collaboration—a corporation opening itself to external scientific scrutiny, that whole transparency narrative,” Richard explains. “It’s excellent exposure, especially with Cole agreeing to take part.”

“I haven’t discussed this sort of request with Mr. Cole yet,” I say, earning a questioning look from Ethan.

“Well, reach out to his team and let me know. It would make an excellent follow-up to the initial splash.” Richard pauses. “By the way, this is excellent work. More nuanced than I was expecting, but solid journalism.”

“Thank you.” I keep my tone even, resisting the urge to point out that it’s solid science, not journalism. “I’ll check my schedule and confirm which interviews I can make time for.”

After ending the call, I look at Ethan with a mixture of exasperation and amusement. “Bloomberg wants a joint interview with us. Apparently, they’re pitching it as ‘corporation opens itself to scientific scrutiny’ human interest story.”

“Clever angle,” he replies. “How do you feel about that?”

“Professionally, it makes sense. It makes it look like a collaborative transparency initiative rather than an antagonistic exposé.” I chew my lip, considering. “Personally...”

“It might announce our relationship,” he finishes for me. “which is what they’re after.”

“The speculation would be there, out in the open.” I run a hand through my hair, thinking through possible consequences. “Especially given our situation-ship all over socials.”

“The champagne incident remains most memorable,” he agrees with a small smile. “it still gets clicks. Look we said if they ask, we will tell. I respect you not wanting to hide this.”

“This is...”

“Reality,” he supplies. “The question is whether you’re ready for that reality today, or if you’d rather wait.”

His thoughtfulness continues to surprise and impress me.

“What would you prefer?” I ask, wanting his honesty.

He considers this. “Professionally, a joint interview showcases Cole Tech’s commitment to environmental improvement. Personally...” He takes my hand, his expression vulnerable. “I’m not interested in hiding our relationship forever, Harper. I’m proud to be with you. I love you,”

“Even though I’ve just published a rigorous critique of your company’s environmental shortcomings?”

“Especially because of that,” he says.

“Most men would find it inconvenient,” I point out.

“I’m not most men.”

“No,” I agree. “You’re not.”

Decision made, I reach for my phone again. “I’ll tell Richard we’re open to the joint interview, but that I’d like to do the solo ones first, establish some credibility.”

“That’s great,” Ethan agrees, rising to refill our coffee mugs. “I want you to be happy.”

“Look at us, finding middle ground,” I tease. “We’re a case study in collaboration.”

“Is that what we’re calling it now?” He returns with fresh coffee, eyes crinkling with amusement. “And here I thought it was just two stubborn people who love each other.”

The heat in his gaze sends a familiar warmth through me, distracting me from the professional obligations of the day. Three weeks of mind-blowing sex has done nothing to slow down how much we want more.

“Focus, Cole,” I admonish, though I can’t help smiling. “Today is about work, not your appreciation of my bedroom skills.”

“Can’t it be both?” he suggests, leaning closer. “The paper is published. We have forty minutes before you need to get ready for your first interview.”

“And you’re suggesting we use that time for...”

“Bedroom skills,” he supplies. “Stress relief. Take your pick.”

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