Page 115 of Falling for the CEO

"Dude, that's a grim view of life," Colton said.

“That’s a surprising comeback... from you.”

Meredith bit her lip. "I mean, there's always a risk, of course."

Cade turned to her. "You're not helping."

"I'm giving my honest opinion."

"And I appreciate it," I said. "I can take it."

Gabe narrowed his eyes and shook his head. "No, I've got nothing, man. Sorry. I've legitimately never been serious enough about a woman to consider shit like this."

“There is more,” I said.

Half the group groaned. The other half seemed to be holding their breaths.

“Naomi came by this morning. She hinted at getting back together. Mostly because it’s the only way for her to be financially secure.”

Colton snorted. “She’s unbelievable.”

“I told her to never bring that up again. But Penny thinks—”

“Holy shit, you didnottell Penny,” Gabe exclaimed.

I nodded. The entire group groaned.

Gabe whistled. “Dude, I have zero clues about relationships, but even I know that was a dumb move.”

“Honesty is good,” Maddox said with a stony expression.

Leo shook his head. “Selective honesty.”

Nick looked incredulous. “The way this conversation is going, we’ll need alcohol.”

“Anyway, I told Penny because I don’t believe in secrets. Then she figured that maybe I was only telling her to think about the job because I was considering getting back with Naomi.”

“Fucking hell.” That came from Colton.

"Wait, how do you feel about Penny?" Natalie asked.

Everyone fell silent and glanced around. It was just us here at the bar, and the bartender, obviously. Everyone else was busy carrying on their own conversations at the various tables spread out through the room.

"I love her," I said confidently.

I could see the shock on Colton’s and Gabe's faces. My half brothers seemed stunned too. Not Cade and Jake though.

Cade looked downright smug. Jake had an I-told-you-so look. I focused on Natalie and Meredith. I had a feeling they were the only ones who’d understand what I was about to say.

"I told her that, and yeah, it's fast. It wasn't something I intended—it just happened, but I know it's true, and I don't want to lose her." My pulse hammered in my ears.

"Oh my God, that's so heartfelt," Natalie said. "I think you might be the most romantic guy in this room."

Jake cleared his throat.

"Except you, of course," she said quickly, smiling at him. Jake growled. She touched his cheek, grinning, before focusing on me again. "Look, I don't think we can know how she's feeling. But if she says something, then you should take it at face value."

Meredith ran her hand through her hair. "From what Jeannie said, Penny doesn't strike me as a woman who would say one thing and then change her mind.”

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