Page 83 of Love Me Forever

Chapter Twenty-Two

Travis

On Monday, I receiveda surprise visit from Reese at the office. I instantly knew she came bearing good news. She was wearing a suit, and her hair was tied in a high ponytail. She looked immaculate and 100-percent businesslike.

"Morning, Reese. To what do I owe the honor?"

She came over to me as I rose from my chair and kissed my cheek.

Taking a step back, she said, "I'm here to announce that I am accepting your job offer."

I opened my arms, pulling her in for a hug. "Perfect. That's great to know."

She cleared her throat, stepping back.

"What?" I asked.

"Your door is open. No public displays of affection."

I stared at her. "What are you talking about? We're cousins. Everyone knows that."

"I know, but I want them to respect me for me, not just because we share the last name."

"You're a finance genius."

"Your team doesn't know that yet. It's just hearsay. I need approximately two months and six days to prove myself, and then we can show our true colors."

"Two months and six days? That’s very specific. How exactly did you calculate that?"

"Past experience. People start relaxing after the two-month mark, so it's important to keep proving yourself for a few days more."

"But why six?"

She smiled sheepishly. “Because I can’t keep the crazy at bay for much longer.”

I burst out laughing but didn’t press it. I was happy she’d accepted the job.

"It's going to be fun working together."

"I agree," she said as we sat down at the desk.

"What made you change your mind?" I asked.

"I've wanted to work with you since you asked the first time."

"So you were just teasing me?"

"No. Honestly, I was afraid Malcolm might strike. That he'd somehow show up and ruin things if he knew I was involved."

“But we haven't heard from him in a while."

She straightened up, rolling her shoulders. "I know. And I decided I didn't want to be afraid anymore."

"Just so you know, if Malcolm ever comes near you again, we'll crush him, and he'll scurry away."

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