Page 105 of Tough as Steele

Nate thought he might be expected to say something, but she released their hands and moved closer to the mic. “But I’ve decided they both need a reward for the unfaltering drive they showed to find me. Not sleeping but working, working, working. And because they are both such selfless people, the best reward would be to help the people they care about. I have formed a charitable organization that will help law enforcement officers and their families, and I have appointed my daughter, Clarice, the executor.”

A third round of applause erupted, Londyn’s family particularly boisterous, as were the partners from the Veritas Center and the guys from Nighthawk Security, all of whom were in the group looking at the stage.

Mimi waved her hands to silence everyone. “Don’t applaud my actions. Give your applause for this amazing couple. And a special thank-you to the men of the Nighthawk Security Agency and fine scientists and forensic experts of the Veritas Center, all of whom are here tonight. Without their help and support, Londyn and Nate could not have done their jobs.”

The guests listened and clapped until Nate wanted to melt into the platform and disappear.

When the applause finally died down, Mimi clasped the mic. “Before we eat, I wanted to make one more announcement. My son-in-law, Charles Winston, has decided to step out of the Vandervoort Industries CEO position to take a less stressful position in our R&D department.”

A smattering of applause followed the announcement, but that was because the guests didn’t realize that Mimi had forced Charles into a position that didn’t give him any access to the company finances. She’d listened to Bristol and had an accountant perform a forensic audit, which proved Charles had embezzled a sizable amount of money. Nate would’ve prosecuted the guy, but Mimi didn’t want the scandal. She just wanted to stop the problem.

“Now, one last announcement. I have been reevaluating Vandervoort Enterprises’ security contract for some time, and I have decided to award our new contract to the Steele Guardians.”

Londyn gasped as her family shared surprised looks, then broke out in applause. Peyton jumped up and down. How she managed it on sky-high heels, he had no idea.

“Congratulations,” he mouthed to Londyn.

She fired him a dazzling smile that stole his breath. Oh, man. He was a goner for sure. All he wanted to do was get her alone and kiss her senseless, but he knew she would want to celebrate with her family.

“Not only did Londyn show incredible bravery, fortitude, and ingenuity in her quest to bring me home,” Mimi continued, “But her whole family helped in the investigation. And before you wonder about their guards failing me at the party, I withheld vital information from them. If I’d shared it, I would have prevented the abduction. Once I’d disappeared, they showed their character as they helped Nate and Londyn in protecting Clarice, staying on the property until I came home. This is the kind of company I want and need working alongside our organization.”

She clapped her hands. “Now, I’ve talked long enough. Let’s eat.”

The guests filed toward the food, and Mimi turned to Londyn to sweep her into a hug. “Thank you again, young lady. I’m still in awe of your confidence under pressure.”

Mimi leaned back, and Nate saw tears glistening in Londyn’s eyes.

“I couldn’t imagine what it must’ve felt like to know you were standing on a bomb.” Mimi shuddered. “You saved three lives. A most impressive young woman who I hope continues to develop a relationship with Nate.” Her eyes sparkled with the statement.

Great. Mimi had gone to meddling, but he had the same hopes, so he held his tongue.

Mimi grabbed his hand. “Because he’s a fine young man. Compassionate. Caring. Hard working. Handsome. He even has a sense of humor. All characteristics I find most compelling. I hope you do too.”

Londyn smiled up at him again, this one soft and filled with love. “I do.”

Mimi gave a firm nod. “Now, go celebrate with your family, and let me have a few minutes with Nate alone.”

Nate had no idea what she planned to tell him, but he would gladly listen. In the past few weeks, he’d spent more time with Mimi and Clarice than he had in years. They’d renewed their sense of family. Even more with Mimi, as the abduction caused her to deepen her commitment to family.

Londyn clasped his hand as she stepped past him, and he wanted to linger in holding it. They’d been spending a lot of time together, too, and he was certain they would make it in the future. Sure, they were just getting to know each other, but they were very compatible so far.

Londyn slipped free and headed down the steps.

Mimi took his hand. “She’s a special woman.”

“I know.”

“And you’d be a fool to let her go.”

“I know.”

“You won’t find another like her.”

“I know.”

“Now, come on. Tell me you plan to pursue her beyond tonight.”

“I do,” he said with emphasis. “Until we say ‘I do.’”

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