Page 122 of The Exception

“I’m not mad at you. I’ll think about what you said, but I have to go or I’ll be late.”

“Okay. For all I know, I could be wrong. Either way, I’m here for you. And we can always talk about it more over the phone or when I see you in a few weeks.”

Right. I couldn’t believe it was already almost time forles Journées du patrimoine.

“Thanks, Jo,” I said before we ended the call.

I dressed quickly, choosing a dress with a floral design. My mind immediately started cataloguing the flowers and their meanings. Now that Graham had told me about the symbolism behind flowers, I saw them everywhere.

Willow and I headed to Graham’s office. He had another board meeting today. I hadn’t heard anything more about the board’s thoughts on our “inappropriate relationship” or their attempts to invalidate the clause in the will, though I knew legal challenges took time.

For now, I was going to focus on being supportive. On showing Graham that I was there for him. And reminding the board that I wasn’t going anywhere. Regardless of whatever bullshit they tried to pull, I was here to stay.

“Hey, Carson,” I said, stopping at his desk.

“Mrs. Mackenzie.” He jumped up. “I didn’t realize?—”

I waved him away. “It’s fine. I already checked Graham’s calendar, and I know he doesn’t have any meetings scheduled for lunch.” The perks of being his former assistant.

“You’re—” He shook his head, brow furrowed. “Yeah. You’re right.”

“Also, how many times do I have to ask you to call me Lily?” When he hesitated, I gave him a stern look.

“Yes. Of course. Mrs.… Lily.”

I laughed as I knocked on the door to Graham’s office. He glanced up from his computer, the corner of his mouth tilting into a grin. “Hey. This is a pleasant surprise.”

I smiled, shutting the door behind me. “I know you have a busy afternoon, but I thought we could review some decisions for the château.”

It was all a pretext. I didn’t need his opinion on the château or even lunch, for that matter. I needed him. I needed to know that this was real. That our feelings, our relationship, would last.

He stood, rounding the desk to greet me, pressing a kiss to my cheek. “The château, huh?” Graham asked, brow arched. “What could you possibly need my help with?”

I palmed him over his pants. “I have someharddecisions to make. And you are very experienced with these types of matters.” It was totally cheesy, but he didn’t seem to mind.

He somehow maintained a straight face when he responded. “I am. I’m glad you’re finally acknowledging the benefit of my knowledge. I would be happy to lend you myexperience.” He angled his hips against mine, letting me feel his arousal as he slid his hand up to cup my breast.

“Good.” I bit back a smile. “That’s good. Because I could definitely,” I gasped, “use it.” I pressed against him, needing him closer.

“Yeah?” He kissed my neck, and I tried not to moan.

“Yes.” My voice was breathy.

He twisted some of my hair around his fingers. “I like this one. Is she new?” he asked, referring to my wig.

I nodded, looping my arms around his neck. “It’s one of the nicest wigs I’ve ever owned. Thank you.”

“My pleasure. What’s her name?”

“Genevieve.”

“Elle est jolie, mais c’est toi la plus belle.”She’s pretty, but you’re the most beautiful.

My cheeks heated at his compliment. “Merci, mon préféré.”

“I’m your favorite?” he asked. “Your favorite what?”

“My favorite husband.”

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