Page 72 of The Senator's Secret

“I’d love that.”

“Me too,” he says softly. “Look, I know we have a lot to work on and talk out, but I want you to know I’m willing to put in the work.”

“Okay,” I reply, not really understanding where he’s going with this.

“Don’t make me leave Texas without you,” Jake pleads. “I need you, honey. I think I always have. That’s why I gave you a family heirloom for your engagement ring.” I look to the ring on my finger. Apparently, Jules was right when she said he gave me a meaningful ring because he loved me. I’ve never been so glad to have been wrong.

“I need you too. I’ll come home with you.”

“Thank fuck,” he groans before pressing his mouth to mine. “It doesn’t have to be right now, but know I am going to marry you. When you’re ready.”

“Well, it’s not going to be soon,” I tell him, and his face falls. “We’ve got an election to win. After that, there will be plenty of time to get married.”

“Okay,” he says, his face brightening.

“Okay,” I agree. “Take me home, Jake.”

“Gladly.”

Jake takes my hand in his and leads me out of the house.

“I’m going home, Cody,” I announce over my shoulder.

“It’s about time,” he says. “See you around, yankee.”

Outside, Gus pulls open the door to the SUV for me. “Thanks, Gus.”

“I’m still mad at you,” he says.

“I’m sorry, Gus.”

“I accept your apology. Do it again and I’ll tell the boss,” he threatens as Jake climbs in behind me.

“And the boss spanks,” Jake adds.

I just roll my eyes. “Shusssh,” I say, covering his mouth with my hand, which only makes him laugh harder. “They’ll hear you, and then we’ll never get anyone to vote for you.”

“He’s got my vote,” Gus says.

“And he’s got mine,” Joe chimes in.

“Aw, that’s sweet, guys.”

“And what about you?” Jake asks as he leans into me. “Do I have your vote?”

“Nah, I really like the other guy.” I wink.

“The… the… the other guy?” he sputters. “You wound me, woman.”

“Nah, I suspect your ego is just fine.”

“Speaking of other guys…” Jake starts.

“Yeah?”

“Whose fucking sweatshirt are you wearing? Because it sure as hell isn’t mine,” he growls, making me laugh. Jake and I are going to be just fine. “I’m as serious as a heart attack right now, Grace.”

“I know you are. It’s Cody’s. We’re going to have to mail it back. Angie is quite fond of stealing it. She only let me wear it, because I looked so pitiful.”