Page 86 of Mated To My Boss

Once she leaves, the whole point of staying behind is ruined. I can't get any work done because I miss her so much. I stand and begin to pace aimlessly. The unnecessary walk leads me to the door of Graham's office.

I knock and receive an immediate response. “Come in.” I push open the door and enter, seeing Graham hunched over his computer, typing furiously.

“What brings the great Mr. Barlow to my humble office this afternoon? Let me guess, did Madeline call in sick today?”

“What do you mean? I come to see you all the time.”

“So she went for lunch then?”

“Yes,” I sigh. I walk to a free chair and collapse into it. “I've turned into you.”

“You say that like it's a bad thing.”

“It is. Don't think I haven't heard you whining because Rose has to go on that retreat.”

“I should be with her right now,” he says, dreamily. “I'm sure she misses me just as much.”

“How are you coping without her here?” I inquire, leaning forward a little.

Graham moves from behind the computer. “I'm not. I miss her all the damn time.”

“That's going to be me soon if I don't do anything about it,” I say, adjusting my position on the chair. Suddenly, no spot seems comfortable while I'm trying to be vulnerable.

“Oh yeah, her internship is about to end,” Graham notes. “Damn. How're you holding up?”

“I'm not. I'm not sure I'm ready for her to go just yet.”

“Then this is your sign,” my friend remarks enthusiastically.

“To do what?”

“Ask her to marry you.”

I look back at Graham. There was no indication in his voice that he was joking, but the idea is too crazy to be real. “Come again?”

“I'm serious,” Graham reiterates. “If you're certain about her wanting to stay, then ask her to marry you. I know a guy that makes the best engagement rings.”

“That's just the thing. I don't want her to stay.”

Graham frowns. “I'm confused.”

“It's the other way around,” I explain. “She has a life to live and I'm seriously considering moving for her.”

Graham lets out a short huff of air through his nose. “Wait, seriously? You'd be willing to give up so much for her?”

“Of course, she's my mate.” I lean forward. “I love Madeline more than anything. I ran away from her once. It's time to run toward her.”

“You know this means leaving everything, right? Leaving the pack, your job—”

“I know, Graham.”

I'd be leaving my best friend, too.

Graham goes silent for a second, pondering my words. “That’s a huge decision, but I understand it. I want you here, but I understand.”

“Do you think I should discuss this with Cora?”

Graham nods. “Who better to talk to than her aunt?”

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