Page 61 of Charmed By Destiny

“Of course,” Luke replied. He stood and tried to act casual, but his gait was wooden as he headed for Richard’s office. It didn’t matter that he’d gone in to talk with Richard countless times in the past three months. He worried everyone would sense things were different now if he rushed or smiled.

So, he walked through Richard’s doorway after greeting his assistant and waved awkwardly at his soulmate.

Richard scowled. “Shut the door, please.”

Turning, Luke did as he was told. He was surprised to find Richard nearly on his heels when he faced his desk again.

“What’s wrong?” Richard asked.

“Today’s been so bizarre,” Luke replied. “I was relieved no one has mentioned this weekend or how Douglas is actively avoiding your office. Then I’m wondering if I rush in here, if everyone will figure out we slept together. I wish my brain would calm the hell down.”

“I don’t know whether to be glad I’m not the only one freaking out or pissed that you’re having as awkward of a day as I am.”

“This is going to get better, right?”

Richard nodded. “It has to. We’re good though, right? I know we won’t see each other until this weekend unless we’re here, but a little space is good.”

“I was thinking the same thing,” Luke said, tugging Richard into a hug. “I should pack though. You’re still okay with me moving in?”

“Of course. Relax.”

A knock on the door had them springing apart.

“What the fuck?” Richard muttered.

Luke’s heart was beating so fast he was mildly concerned that another scare would end him and he’d never get the chance to find out if he was good at being a soulmate. Stepping around Luke with a ferocious frown, Richard pulled the door open.

“Hey Richard, sorry to bother you, but I’m looking for Luke,” Rhonda said. “Clark wants to speak to him.”

Luke swore the entire conference services staff stopped speaking the moment Rhonda uttered those words. He couldn’t blame them. In the three months since he’d started his job, Clark had never requested any of Richard and Douglas’s employees journey upstairs to his fancy office.

“Yeah, he’s here,” Richard replied. “Lucas, we can finish our discussion later.”

“Sure,” Luke said, then greeted Rhonda. She smiled, and he followed her out of the main office door. Without a word, they weaved through the casino to the private elevator that led up to the executive area. Once they were safely inside the elevator, Rhonda beamed at him.

“Congratulations,” Rhonda said. “And don’t worry, Clark swore me to secrecy.”

Luke’s heartrate lowered slightly. “Thanks, and no worries. I know the Marwoods consider inspirits part of their family, and you’re as important to them as Gabe.”

“Maybe not as important as their son-in-law but definitely trusted.”

The doors slid open, and Rhonda led Luke through the busy hive of employees. Far too soon, Luke’s feet traveled over the threshold into Clark’s office. Rhonda closed them inside and Clark stood.

“You told him I squealed, didn’t you?” Clark asked Rhonda.

“Guilty,” Rhonda replied, her grin never faltering.

“Richard is going to screech at me for not being able to keep a secret,” Clark complained. “Normally, I’m good at it, but I’m sorry, Lucas, I couldn’t keep my dear Rhonda in the dark.”

“It’s fine,” Luke replied. “I trust you and Rhonda.”

“We haven’t left you with much choice,” Clark said. “I probably shouldn’t have asked you up here either since it’ll get tongues wagging, but we have family things to do, and you aren’t joining the household until the weekend. That’s too far away for me.”

“Okay,” Luke responded.

“Have a seat and relax, I want to help,” Clark insisted. “You mentioned you wanted to purchase a new car. I’d like to aid you in getting the best possible deal for whatever make and model is on your wish list.”

Shock had Luke blinking heavily. “You asked me up here to offer me help with buying a car.”

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