Page 84 of Camping with the Boss

He shakes his head. “You don’t think you’re a good boss, but you are, Wade. Look at them.” He gestures to my employees. “They would do anything for you. Don’t throw this all away.”

“Can.” I grab his arms to get his attention. He’s so fiercely protective of me. How did I ever manage without him in my life? “This is what I want. I promise.”

“Are you sure?” His brow furrows like the words I’m saying are impossible. He reminds me of Taffy. Fierce and protective on the outside. But also so damn sweet.

I turn our bodies so no one can see us. Not that I care, but he might. I smooth out the wrinkle on his forehead with my fingers. “I love you.”

His mouth opens and he blinks rapidly. Is he going to cry? Instead, he punches me in the arm.

“Ow.” I rub the spot. He’s stronger than he looks.

“You can’t say that to me now. It’s been an emotional day. The police just arrested your aunt and the head of your IT department. All of these people are waiting for you. And we’ve known each other for five days.”

“Sorry.” I’m not, but he’s so freaking adorable. I just want to kiss him.

“Declarations like that are supposed to be romantic, Wade. Done at the perfect time.”

“Can I get a do-over?”

He slaps my arm again, but this time not as hard. “No. This isn’t golf. What is wrong with you? Stop grinning at me.”

I hold up a hand. “Okay, I get it. I’m sorry.”

He nods. “Let’s just get through this, and then we can talk.” The crowd is quiet for once. Are they trying to listen in?

“Okay, sure.” I try. I really try. “But…”

He turns back with his hands on his hips. I know he’s overwhelmed. He put so much on the line for me. He raises a brow. “But?”

“I shouldn’t have said…those words. It’s not the right place or time. But you’re the most beautiful person I’ve ever seen. Strong and fierce. You love unconditionally, and I’ve not had that in a long time. It’s only been five days, but that doesn’t matter. My body knows you. My heart knows you. Every part of me knows you’re the only one for me. If you can put up with a grumpy bosshole who likes being called Daddy, then I hope you’ll give me a chance to prove this is real.” He swallows and shakes his head. “I tried to hold it in, I swear, but I’m so freaking in love with you. I’m sorry, sweetheart. I know it’s not romantic?—”

His fingers push against my lips. “That’s very romantic, actually. I’ve never been in love before?—”

“Guys?” Ander touches my shoulder, and I jerk back. He removes his hand with a laugh. “Maybe finish this first? And then you guys can go somewhere and talk.”

I shift so I can see around him. All eyes are on us. “Okay, thanks.”

Canyon tries to sidestep away from me, but I grab his arm to keep him by my side as I address the group. “Where were we?”

“You’re stepping down,” Ander reminds me, not looking as happy as I expected.

“Yes. Canyon isn’t wrong. I’ve wanted to be CEO—run this company—most of my life. And I enjoy it. But it was never my dream. Not really. It’s what others wanted for me. And my replacement is right here. My brother Ander is so good at this. Interacting with people. Getting shit done. He’s a natural. He deserves his chance at being CEO of Darian Enterprises.” I nod for Ander to come up, and when he does, I pull him into a hug. “I love you, bro.”

“Same.”

I laugh and clap him on the back. “Say a few words to the people.”

“This isn’t official,” he says in a low voice. “Not until the board meeting.”

“So? Come on. Speech.” I start the chant and lift my hands to keep it going until he relents.

“Fine. Settle down, everyone. Thank you, Wade. I appreciate everyone’s support…”

Taking Canyon’s hand, I drag him out of the spotlight. I’d love to take him into our special room, but I want to be here for my brother. Instead, I pull Canyon over to the chairs against the wall. I don’t pull him onto my lap like I want, and I feel like my restraint should be rewarded.

“What are you doing?” Canyon asks.

The group laughs at something Ander says, and I relax, glad we’re no longer the center of attention. I take Canyon’s hands and squeeze. “Living my best life.”

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