Page 31 of Outspoken Hearts
"A little," I admit, accepting both the coffee and the kiss she offers. "This campaign launch is the biggest project I've handled for Westcott so far."
"And you're going to crush it." She straightens my already-straight tie, her touch lingering. "They're going to love what you've put together."
This is what I cherish most about our relationship—the unwavering belief Eva has in me. Not in James Adams, town golden boy or motivational speaker, but in me. The real me who sometimes gets nervous before big presentations and occasionally burns dinner when I'm distracted.
"I have you to thank for that." I pull her closer. "The campaign concept was your idea."
"Which you ran with and made even better." She taps her mug against mine in a toast. "That's why we're so good together. I throw out the wild ideas, and you shape them into something workable."
"The perfect partnership," I agree, pressing a kiss to her forehead.
She's spent the last three days with me in Boston, working remotely while I prepare for today's presentation. Our arrangement—me in Boston Monday through Wednesday, back in Meadowbrook the rest of the week, with Eva joining me when her schedule allows—works better than I ever dared hope.
"Speaking of partnerships," I say, reaching into my pocket, "I have something for you."
Eva's eyes widen as I pull out a small velvet box. "James..."
"Don't worry, it's not an engagement ring." I open the box to reveal a key. "Yet. But I was hoping you'd consider making this arrangement a bit more... permanent."
She looks from the key to my face, her expression softening. "You want me to move in?"
"Just part-time, to start. Keep your place in Meadowbrook—I love it there too. But make this our Boston home. Together." I take her hand. "What do you think?"
Her answer is a kiss that nearly makes me forget about my important presentation. When we finally break apart, her eyes are shining.
"Yes," she says simply. "Absolutely yes."
"Yeah?" I can't help the grin spreading across my face.
"Yeah." She takes the key, turning it over in her palm. "I love that we're not rushing, that we're finding our own pace. Building our life in a way that works for us, not according to anyone else's timeline."
That's been our mantra these past six months—finding what works for us, regardless of convention or expectations. It hasn't always been easy. There have been difficult conversations, compromises, moments of doubt. But through it all, we've remained honest with each other. No filters, no careful editing.
"I need to get going," I say reluctantly, checking my watch. "Dinner tonight to celebrate?"
"Definitely. That little Italian place we found last month?"
"Perfect." I grab my briefcase and jacket. "I'll text you when the presentation's over."
She walks me to the door, rising on tiptoe for one last kiss. "Go show them what James Adams is really made of."
The presentation goes even better than I'd hoped. The Westcott executive team not only approves my campaign but increases the budget, impressed by the innovative approach. Robert Westcott himself pulls me aside afterward.
"This is exactly why we brought you on board, James," he says, clapping me on the shoulder. "Fresh thinking, impeccable execution, and the ability to get everyone excited about a vision."
"Thank you, sir. I appreciate the opportunity."
"And how's the commuting arrangement working out? Still manageable?"
"More than manageable," I assure him. "The balance between Boston and Meadowbrook gives me perspective I wouldn't have otherwise."
He nods thoughtfully. "Good to hear. Though I have to say, if you ever decide you want to be here full-time, there would be a significant promotion in it for you."
Six months ago, this offer would have thrown me into a tailspin of doubt and obligation. Now, I simply smile.
"I appreciate that, sir, but the current arrangement is working perfectly for me. It allows me to contribute here while maintaining my community connections in Meadowbrook. Best of both worlds."
"And that designer of yours? She's still consulting on projects?"
