Page 16 of I Think They Love You

Denz doesn’t give Cheryl a chance to digest his stammering. He stomps out of his office. All the way to the other end of the company floor.

“I nominate myself!”

To his credit, Kenneth looks up from his desk, unalarmed.“Nominate yourself for what? Loudest, rudest employee ever? I doubt you’ll have any competition.”

Denz freezes. He’s in his dad’s office. Along one wall, countless awards glitter in the Atlanta sunlight. Opposite the desk is the lavender love seat where Aubrey’s life was changed. Wherehislife was changed.

“Son?”

Denz eyes the soft, concerned expression unfolding across his dad’s face. His mind’s made up. He’s not letting his dad’s legacy—his own legacy—die without a fight.

He squares his shoulders and says, “I nominate myself to be the next CEO.”

-3-

the Carter Family Group Chat

Today 1:59P.M.

Aunt Cheryl Carter

EMERGENCY! Who is Denzel’s secret boyfriend?!

Nic Carter

Denz + boyfriend? not a thing

Aunt Cheryl Carter

ITS TRUE! Name? Occupation? Family history? I need deets ASAP!

Aunt Eva Carter-Rivera

Sis please your age is showing. no one says deets

Uncle Orlando Rivera

Ooh burn!

Nic Carter

Uncle O stop watching EASY A!

Aunt Cheryl Carter

This boyfriend better not be in the NFL. No actors or rappers either!

Nic Carter

auntie your husband is literally a music producer!

Aunt Cheryl Carter

A very respected one! We don’t need any more family scandals.

Kami Carter

Some of us are trying to work…

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