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Unable to contain myself, I hug him tightly. It's unbelievable how in sync we are, despite knowing each other for only a few months.
“On one condition,” he murmurs against my neck, his breath tickling my skin.
My heart skips a beat, and I pull back slightly, narrowing my eyes in mock suspicion. “What is it, mister negotiator?”
He chuckles, the sound low and warm. “I’ll match whatever amount you invest and put it away in a trust for when our girl is older.”
I stare at him as a tender ache spreads through me, the kind of feeling that makes you feel how lucky you are—how loved you are. And just when I think I can’t love him more, he goes and does something like this.
“I love you,mi cielo,” I whisper, my voice soft with emotion.
He brushes a kiss against my forehead, cradling the back of my neck.
“I love you more, wife.”
Chapter 31
Vicente Godoy
I’ve been so busy lately that I have neglected some of the people closest to me. My friend, Gio Bianchi got married, and although I had initially RSVPd to attend with Camila and Ava, we had to miss the wedding.
We’ll have to visit him and his wife, Ruin, next winter—the only downtime we’ll have at the vineyard. Good thing it’ll be summer in the United States.
We’re leaving for Alamo Peaks next week, and today is our last day in the office. It’s a bittersweet day, especially for my employees. None of them were really surprised that Camila and I are moving to Chile. But they are definitely worried they won’t be able to find a job. I just hope the surprise I have for them is enough to cheer them up.
“Vicente, lunch is here. Let’s boogie,” Camila says, doing her little dance, and I chuckle.
I hope this lightness never ends between us. We make such a great team.
The office buzzes as the employees gather, some standing and others leaning against their desks, all eyes on me.
“Everyone, I’ll keep this short. I wanted to thank you all for all the hard work and dedication you have put into your jobs while working for me,” I begin.
Camila clears her throat.
“Working with me,” I correct myself.
Everyone chuckles, and Camila winks.
“As I was saying, I’m very grateful. Although it’s bittersweet to close this office, I know there’s success ahead for every single one of you. You are hardworking, smart, and dedicated, and I am confident you all will find jobs soon.”
Everyone murmurs their thanks as they begin to move to the buffet line.
“Hold on a moment, I’m not done yet,” I say, and they all turn to face me.
I continue, “I’ve decided to give you a one-year salary on top of the severance payment we had agreed on—plus a bonus for your hard work. With that and my glowing letters of recommendation, I have no doubt your future is bright.”
The office erupts in cheers as everyone makes a beeline to hug me and thank me personally.
Once the room empties and we’re the last ones in the building, Camila turns to me.
“Remember, I’m taking Ava to say goodbye to Mrs. Evans. Are you sure you don’t want to come with us?”
“Yes, wife. I’m sure. There’s one more thing I have to do before we leave, and I can’t delay it anymore.”
“Should I be worried?” Camila asks, biting her lip.
“No, wife. There’s nothing to worry about. I’ll see you in a couple of hours. Yes?”