Page 54 of New York Love Stories: Vol. 1

“We were willing to go up another three mil without approval, but I have to talk to Dad to see where he thinks we should land so we’re not screwing ourselves. Manhattan Financial would have to continue to turn a profit after the acquisition.Especially then.But I’m not worried. We’ll get our accounting team in and trim the fat. As for the health issues, what’s up?”

“Not sure. It was mentioned on the down-low without too many details. He’s just ready to retire and enjoy the golden years.”

“Kids?”

“Yeah, but he said they’re not interested in the business. I think it will be an easy transition as well. He seemed eager to lead it.”

“That’s good. Less we have to worry about. We can talk to Dad in the morning and make a plan.” Clapping me on the back, he says, “You did good, Nick. Making us proud.” He heads for the stairs but stops and looks back at me. “As for the girlfriend, it’s about damn time. And you know if we win this deal, we’re going to need some people in New York. It might be something to consider.”

I hadn’t thought about that, but now that he’s mentioned it, I have a feeling I won’t think about anything else. What do I want to do? Where do I want to live? How long can I stay away from Natalie without feeling like I’m going insane?

Spinning to my feet, I grab my suitcase and head to my bedroom. I moved home after graduation to save money to eventually buy a place by the ocean. But Natalie has me thinking. Maybe I want to rent something in the meantime so when she comes to visit, we have privacy.

The next morning in the conference room bright and early, I sit beside my brother at the long table. “I typed up all the notes, including my suggestions.” As we come to the end of the list, I ask, “What do you think?”

My dad angles toward me from the head of the table, rubbing his chin. “I think it’s worth upping the offer and getting this deal closed. Are you up for the task, Nick?”

“I am.” The answer’s easy even if a little self-serving; I get to see Natalie again.

“I want this company.” He stands, not minding a team of people watching his every move. “Andrew will go with you. He can handle the negotiations, but I want you to back him. As for the paperwork, make sure the legal language is in our favor. Don’t let me down. Close it and come home with signed contracts.”

“I’ll take care of it and get us situated on the East Coast.”

My dad says, “Good job on pushing this to happen. Stans would have never confided in just anyone. It’s because of you, Nick. He trusted you enough to let you know about the CEO’s private situation.” He looks up and grins. “Christiansen Wealth Management Manhattan has a great ring to it. Have a good day, everyone.” He walks toward the door with the others.

Andrew rocks back in the office chair. “What do you say? You up to take New York by storm?”

With Natalie at the forefront of my mind, I reply, “I’m ready.”

19

Natalie

“We’reclose to making the deal. A lot can come of it if this happens.”

“I have a good feeling about it, so I’m sure it will close.”

He goes quiet on the other end of the call, but then whispers, “Everything’s moving so fast.”

“That’s good, right? It shows your family and the other execs that you’re ready for whatever they throw your way.”

“I mean with us.”

This time, I’m the one who goes silent. Does he regret asking me to be his girlfriend? For committing to someone across the country? I know it’s been a while since he’s been in a relationship, but he seemed ready by his words and through his actions.

Why did I jump in heart first instead of testing the temperature with my toe? Ugh.

“Natalie?”

“What?” I ask, angry with myself for having doubted so quickly. I guess, we’re both in unfamiliar territory.Damn those dimples.

“I didn’t mean it as a bad thing. It’s the first time in a long time that I’ve felt content. I miss you, but knowing you’re at the other end of a call or video at the end of the day is a nice feeling. I have someone I can rely on who makes me happy.”

I lean against the phone, pressing it tighter to my ear, a sucker for his words and hearing him sweet-talk me. “You make me happy, too.”

“No regrets?”

“Not a chance.” I roll onto my back and stare up at the ceiling. “When will I get to see you again?”

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