Page 101 of Forbidden Kisses

Oh dear God.Duncan and I needed to have a word. I never in a million years would have imagined this. I honestly couldn't reply without causing trouble either way. If I told him yes, he’d get his hopes up. If I said no, I’d break his heart.

Distraction was my best weapon.

"Come on. If you finish your part of the puzzle before me, you can choose what you want for lunch," I said.

The trick worked. Jeremy immediately focused on the table. I didn't even have to pretend he was beating me. The little guy won with flying colors a few minutes later, and we ended up having pizza for lunch.

In the afternoon, Duncan picked us up from the zoo. He’d insisted on it, so we’d Ubered to the ranch in the morning even though I could have just used the car he gave me to drive. He had a huge smile on his face when he arrived.

"Dad, today was awesome!" Jeremy exclaimed. "Riley's really the best nanny ever. Do you think you can convince her to stay and not take that new job?"

Jeremy had skills. I was impressed.

Duncan’s expression fell a bit. "We've spoken about this, Jeremy."

They did? Maybe that would explain why he came on so strong this morning.

"Ready for the rest of the afternoon?" Duncan asked.

Jeremy nodded.

"Good, because I have a surprise for both of you," Duncan said, looking from Jeremy to me.

"Really?" I asked. "And what's that?"

"I checked the weather, and it's perfect."

"For what?"

Duncan grinned. "Camping."

I gasped. Jeremy was jumping up and down. "Yes, Dad! Thank you so much! I thought you'd never want to do that."

"We're leaving tonight,” he informed us.

“But I need to pack and everything," I protested with borderline panic.

Duncan's eyes twinkled. "I've got that covered," he said.

I wanted to jump his bones and kiss him right here, but that was definitely not appropriate.

"What do you mean? I need details before I agree. I mean, I need certain clothes and?—"

"Paula already packed your bag. All we need to do is load it in the car. I left the office early and packed Jeremy's."

Huh. Paula the sneak. That backpack under her bed must have been for me.

"I love you, Dad," Jeremy said.

I was stunned—and swooning.

"I love you, too, son. Come on, let's get in the car." He opened the car door for Jeremy, helping him in. Closing the door, he turned to me.

"When did you speak to my sister?" I asked.

"I've been plotting with her for a while."

I could have melted when he waggled his brows.This man…