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“Now you’re just trying to torture me.” I give her a mock scowl. “You know how long it takes to get machine oil out of Italian wool?”

“About as long as it takes to get printer toner out of silk blouses?” she challenges, gesturing to a faint stain on her sleeve that I hadn’t noticed before.

But we’re both grinning, the thrill of facing challenges together lighting us up from within. This is what Brighton will never understand, what Clara could never offer—the spark that happens when we tackle problems together, and trust each other’s strengths instead of trying to control outcomes alone.

“It’s crazy, isn’t it?” she asks softly.

I look at her—brilliant, beautiful, brave enough to suggest turning our entire strategy upside down because it’s the right thing to do. Because she believes in building something real, something that lasts. Something that honors both tradition and innovation.

Two years ago, I would have hesitated, worried about how the board would react, and been concerned about protecting my position, her reputation, and the company’s standing. I would have looked for a safer solution, a corporate-approved strategy that wouldn’t rock the boat.

But that Lucas? He ran away from challenges instead of embracing them.

“Completely crazy,” I agree, watching the momentary flicker of doubt cross her face. Then I grin. “Let’s do it.”

Her whole face lights up, relief and excitement blooming. “Really?”

“Really. The Johnsons value authenticity and relationships. This approach plays to our strengths while exposing Brighton’s weaknesses. It’s exactly the kind of innovative thinking that made Dad excited about sustainable technology in the first place.” I stand, energy coursing through me at the prospect of this new adventure. “Though maybe pack some non-designer clothes. I have a feeling we’re about to redefine business casual.”

“Thank goodness,” she says with a laugh. “I’ve been waiting for an excuse to wear my ‘Sustainability Is Sexy’ t-shirt to a client meeting.”

She’s already heading for the door, excitement radiating off her. “Coming, partner? We’ve got a board to scandalize, a company to save, and a lifetime of adventures to start.”

I catch her hand before she can leave, pulling her back for one more kiss—more profound this time, full of promise. “There’s no one I’d rather revolutionize manufacturing processes with.”

Her laugh, bright and genuine, is all the answer I need.

I watch her go, smiling despite the chaos ahead of us. Emma Hastings just turned down a dream job because our shared dreams are more significant. Because she believes in us, in what we’re building together, and in the vision of a company that values innovation and relationships.

And I’ve never been more certain of anything in my life.

We’re going to revolutionize sustainable manufacturing.

We’re going to prove that the best innovations come from understanding people, not just systems.

And we’re going to do it together.

My phone rings as I gather my notes to prepare for the inevitable board battle. Clara Brighton’s name flashes on the screen—as if summoned by our defiance of her plans.

Two months ago, I might have hesitated before answering, might have worried about what she wanted or how she might try to manipulate the situation.

Today, I hit decline without a second thought.

Some calls aren’t worth taking.

Some offers aren’t worth considering.

And some partnerships—like the one I’ve found with Emma—are worth protecting.

Not by building walls or maintaining distance, but by choosing, every day, to face challenges together instead of running from them alone.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Emma

I’ve never seen the boardroom this tense.

Ten pairs of eyes stare back at me, ranging from skeptical to outright hostile. The polished mahogany table gleams under the recessed lighting, making the scene feel oddly theatrical.