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“Everly is family, and we protect our own,” he states matter-of-factly. “I’ve seen firsthand the results of her work, and I will not risk her job because her dad’s a criminal. She’s not reporting to him any longer than necessary, especially when it risks dragging her down with him.”
I let out a low whistle. “You’re really embracing your role as protective big brother, huh?”
“You’d do the same for Presley or Marlow.”
“Damn right, I would,” I say. “So, what’s the plan?”
“Like I told Everly this morning, we’re accelerating the process. What I didn’t tell her is that once the deal is inked, Richard’s out. There’s nothing in his contract that states we have to keep him on. If the board uncovers his shady dealings down the line, they can pursue legal action. For now, my priority is removing him from the company while there’s still time to repair the damage he’s done.”
Given how Richard has treated her over the years, I doubt Everly will lose any sleep over it when he finally faces the consequences of his actions.
“What about Everly and her step-brothers?”
“They’ll be in charge of the entire operation. Yes, they’ll have to answer to Stafford Holdings, but the day-to-day oversight willbe minimal. They’ve already proven they can do it, so I have full confidence in their abilities.”
Everly will thrive on having more influence on shaping the overarching vision of the company alongside August and Liam, and I couldn’t be happier for her. But then I remember my promise to her—not to keep secrets. There’s no chance I can hold off on sharing this with her.
“How long until the closing meeting? I can’t keep this from Everly,” I explain.
“Two weeks, tops. Tell her there are details we can’t disclose until everything is finalized. I’m confident she’ll understand.”
“I hope you’re right,” I mumble.
“I always am,” he snarks. “I’m assuming this means you’ll want to stay in London after this is all over?”
“I’m not leaving my wife.” When I told Everly I’d follow her anywhere, I meant it. I had planned to have this conversation with Harrison later, but I guess now is as good a time as any.
“Good, because I need someone I can trust to oversee operations there. I’ve been impressed with your performance lately and have confidence that you can take this on. Our team in London holds you in high regard, so I’m sure they’ll be thrilled about your decision to stay.” I puff my chest out when hearing his compliment. “From a professional perspective, this is a fantastic opportunity, and as your brother, I couldn’t be more proud of you. I’m glad you’re so happy and that you and Everly finally got together.”
“Thanks, man, I appreciate it. Now it’s your turn,” I tease.
It’s hard to believe he’s the last sibling standing without a partner. My brothers and I used to joke about never settling down, yet here we are. I have a hunch my mom is plotting how to change Harrison’s relationship status as we speak.
“We’ll see,” he says, not fazed by my comment. “I have to go, but good luck tomorrow. You’re going to need it,” he teases in a playful tone.
“Bye, Harrison,” I say, ending the call.
After our conversation, I’m looking forward to the future more than ever before. I’m married to the woman of my dreams, and can’t wait to show her what it means to be mine for the rest of her life. And I’m fortunate to have a family that supports me unconditionally.
Now, all that’s left for me to do is come clean to my parents and Theo about why Everly and I stayed married and propose to my wife. Although, not necessarily in that particular order.
I go up to the bedroom and find Everly sitting on the bed, working on her computer.
“Everything okay?” she asks. “Did Harrison get to New York safely?”
“Yeah, he’s fine.” I pause, considering my next words carefully. “He told me some things about the acquisition but asked me to hold off on sharing the details with you. He wants to meet with you, Liam, and August when he’s ready to close the deal.” I hold my breath, waiting for her response.
“Cash, it’s okay. I can wait, but I appreciate you telling me.” She offers me a reassuring smile. “And that’s great news. It’ll mean a lot to Liam and August to get the chance to speak with Harrison directly.”
She looks back at her computer as she types away, and I observe her closer. She’s wearing black shorts and a hot-pink tank top. Her dark hair cascades down her back in waves, and her brown eyes shimmer with happiness. She’s become morecarefree and vibrant over the past couple of months, and I’m lucky that she’s comfortable sharing this side of herself with me.
It’s still hard to believe that she told me she wants to be mine forever. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be this lucky. There are three little words I’ve been waiting for the right moment to say, but I can’t hold them in any longer.
“I love you, Ev.” The admission falls effortlessly from my lips.
For a while I wasn’t sure if that’s what this emotion was, but as I look at her now, there’s no doubt in my mind that I love her and would shout it from the rooftop if she asked me to.
Everly snaps her head up, her eyes wide in disbelief. “What did you say?” Her voice is barely above a whisper.