Page 15 of Devoted Love: A BWWM Romance

"No, creepy-crawly stuff," Charlee warns.

“I know how to throw a party. I’m about to become an aunt four more times.” Parker is due within the next month. Charlee has a few more months. And I’d guess that Ryann and Chase will give birth around the same time. “I’m so happy for you guys. What did X say?”

“He doesn’t know.” Ryann shrugs. “I know he’ll be a great father. I just wanted to wait a little while until things slowed down.”

“I don’t imagine that happening anytime soon,” I counter. Brand X is booming. Ryann manages to handle her role there and with us. It will be interesting to see how this baby changes her life.

“Yeah, but he’s only twenty-five. I guess I don’t want him to feel rushed.”

"Tell him," I whisper, reaching for her hand.

“I will. And do you guys mind if we add Tia to the baby shower?” Ryann asks.

"The more, the merrier," I proclaim as everyone takes their seats.

"And you, Chase?" All eyes turn in her direction. I didn't know she was dating. "A one-night stand.”

“Do we need to hunt him down?” Charlee asks.

“Who are you going to hunt down with all that belly?” Ryann asks with a hand on her hip.

“Don’t sleep on my skills. This baby ain’t stopping nothing,” Charlee snaps.

"No, I don't need your skills, and no, I'm not telling him," Chase says with finality.

“We’re here for you.” I pull her into a hug as a concerned glance passes between us. I got her, I mouth to the others.

Hunter throws her thumb up and sits in her chair. "All right, guys, we have contracts to discuss."

For the next hour, we review existing contracts before Hunter opens the floor for new business.

“Guys, we have two interesting requests. The first is for a set of custom motorcycles. It’s a retired couple wanting to travel. They’ve asked us to oversee the entire process. Payton? You’re up.” Hunter passes a file to Payton.

Payton takes the folder and flips through the pages before Hunter continues. “And Alex…we were contacted by a Mister…”—she opens the file—“Mateo Rodriquez concerning importing supplies from Mexico and China.” She tosses the file to Payton. “Oh, and he asked for you by name.”

The tight set of Payton’s jaw says there’s a story.

"That's all I got," Hunter says.

“I have one.” I sit forward. “Ryker wants to commission us for two projects.”

“Will you need support from Taylor?” Hunter asks.

"I might. I'll know the specifics later tonight. I'll keep you posted." Taylor builds databases, and we frequently pair up to complete tech projects.

“Great.” Hunter stands. "That's it, guys. Don't forget to connect with Jordan about the baby shower. Should I talk with Ben about the room at S&J?"

“I’m not sure. Wait until I get some dates.” I stand ready to get to my computer.

“Bet. Guys, great meeting. Happy Hour at S&J tonight to celebrate?”

"Yes!" And with that, this meeting is officially complete.

Chapter 6

“Sign here.” The security guard checks my identification card. I scribble my initials looking around the empty lobby. “Go up to the eleventh floor. There’s a receptionist bay right in front of the elevators.”

I nod and follow his directions. I prefer not taking these types of meetings. The perk of working with Platinum Prestige is Hunter and Ben work out the details. The moment I cross paths with the client, it's based on the merit of my work.

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