Page 274 of Bossy Hero

Again, no impression.

Is it possible I’ll miss that when I retire?

Nah. I’ll get enough of his bullshit when I visit.

Klein, Tomer, and Shep amble over, joining our group.

With his chest puffed, Klein gestures toward the table. “I made your wedding cake. You’re welcome.”

Sawyer fist pumps, which tracks since he inhaled the one Klein made for the holiday party.

“Thank you for the cake, Klein. Can’t wait to try it.”

Tomer brushes his elbow against my arm. “Sorry you didn’t get the chance to pick your groomsmen.” He gestures toward Sawyer and Shep. “Since they’re so sensitive, I caved and let them join us. Once Jonesy arrives, I’ll ask him to remove them if you’d prefer. Your call.”

“Tomer’s got jokes now.” Shep rolls his eyes. “We’re all fucking doomed. Next thing you know, Sawyer will switch to decaf, and Kri will wear skirts.”

Leo groans in jest. “What is this place coming to?”

I nudge him with my shoulder. “You’re gonna have your work cut out for you with this crew. I hope you’re ready.”

“Are you really leaving us, Boss?” Tomer asks, all traces of his upbeat demeanor gone.

“Leaving Redleg? Yes. Leaving my family? Never.” I wink at him. “Can’t go far when my grandson will be here soon.”

Sawyer’s sarcasm returns in the next breath. “Um. Excuse me. Your first grandson is already here, and your granddaughter is too. Show some respect for the fruits of my loins.”

Leo adds, “Yeah. Plus, Sue’s due before Lettie.”

Tomer holds out his palms. “Didn’t realize this was a race.”

I’d like to tell them it’s not a competition. However, I’m selfishly enjoying watching them fight over me like siblings.

And I guess they are.

Shit.

Fortunately, I’m saved from springing eye leaks when Jonesy barges into the room. “Oh, thank fuck. We didn’t miss it.”

Familiar faces I haven’t seen in years trail a few steps behind Jonesy.Holy shit.Maddie’s gonna be thrilled.

Leo charges over to them, encircling them in his giant embrace, two at a time.

Wearing a perpetual smile, I approach with my hand extended. “Drew, good to see you.”

He shakes my hand firmly. “Sorry we’re late. We got here as soon as we could. Our flight was delayed.” He tips his chin toward Jonesy. “Thanks for sending him to get us.”

“Don’t thank me. I had no idea this was happening until about twenty minutes ago. I’m glad you’re here, though. Your mom’s gonna be thrilled.”

A pretty brunette woman strolls up beside him. He throws his arm over her shoulder. “Not sure you ever met my wife. This is Tara.”

She smiles warmly at me. “Nice to meet you, Alan.”

The urge to correct her use of my name bubbles up out of habit, but I quash it.

“And these are our kids. Stephanie and David.”

Twirling in an adorable soft pink dress, Stephanie beams at me. “Are you our new grandpa?”

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