Page 22 of Innocent and Sweet

“I’m not out for your damn money,” Kameron snarled. “Jesus.”

“Then how?” Howard asked.

“It’s not your business, but it’s my inheritance,” Kameron said. He fought back the urge to scream. “If not taking your money infuriated you more than taking it, then ignoring your checks and transfers was worth it.”

“But you’re taking my daughter. She’s more valuable,” Howard snapped. “It’s a way to stick it to me?”

“Jesus.” Kameron balled his hands. “I love her in spite of you. I cherish Anissa.”

“Yet you tumbled right into bed with her, ruining her chances to snare a decent husband,” Howard said. “Smart.”

“For fuck’s sake.” Anissa held up both hands. “I’m not tumbling with anyone, and I’m not blindly marrying some guy you picked for me, either.”

“You’re not thinking straight.” Howard inched toward her. “Ani.”

Kameron willed himself to remain calm. “She knows what she’s doing.”

“I do.” Anissa sighed. “Choosing Kameron isn’t a reaction or an outburst. I fell for him a long time ago. Caring wasn’t forced. It happened organically. I’ll never fall for the guy you choose because those guys have all been boring. They’re motivated by your money.”

“Ani,” Howard said. “Please?”

“You’ve always called me Ani. Why would you tell those guys to call me by your nickname for me?” Anissa asked. “I hate it.”

“I thought you liked it,” Howard said.

Kameron suppressed a groan. He knew better than anyone Anissa preferred to be called by her full name.

“I don’t want to hear it on anyone else’s lips,” Anissa said. “Not even Kameron’s.” She held up her hand. “Before you ask, no, he doesn’t use that name.”

Kameron rubbed her shoulders again. He kept quiet but wanted to whoop. She made him proud with her confidence.

“Ani.” Howard’s shoulders sank. “Why are you doing this?”

“Because I’m tired of being a commodity. I know you selected those guys. I know they were paid. I’m not a chunk of land or a business. I fell for Kameron because he allows me to be me. I love him.” Anissa leaned into Kameron. “He’s special to me.”

“That’s why you’re marrying him? Without my approval?” Howard thundered.

“Yes.” Anissa nodded. “I am.”

Kameron squeezed her shoulders. “We’re not running off in the middle of the night to get married. I want to, though. Soon. I love her and want to protect her. She’s a prize, a gem, and I can’t see my life without her. I’d give my life for her. I never stopped caring, not even when you fired me. If I had my way, I’d have your approval -- to keep this house because it was my grandmother’s and to marry Anissa. I love her.” He’d spoken the words on his heart and poured out his soul. He couldn’t think of a better answer than the truth.

“See, Daddy? No one’s trying to swindle you. Not me and not him. I love Kameron. I feel safe with him.” Anissa blew out a ragged breath.

Howard stared at Kameron. “That’s why you jumped in as her date, isn’t it?”

“Yes,” Kameron said. “No amount of money will cover what she means to me.” Did he look weak by admitting his feelings? Too fucking bad.

Howard sighed. His gaze vacillated between Anissa and Kameron. He didn’t speak right away.

Kameron held his breath. Things could be okay, but they could go south fast.

Anissa leaned against Kameron. Was she trembling? He draped his arms around her shoulders. No matter what, he’d protect her.

“You’ve made up your mind, haven’t you, Ani?” Howard asked.

“Yes.” She answered right away and didn’t waver.

Howard sighed again. “Then I have, too.”

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