“Probably not.”
“So why are they there?”
“Our signatures both matter.It shows we’ve discussed these things and that we both have the same understandings.I want you clear about my expectations.It will make our marriage happier.”
“About that…”
It appeared as if he was struggling to hold back a grin.
“Three years?”
“Longer is probably better.Company turnarounds often work on a five or ten year plan.Is that what you wanted to suggest?”
Suddenly three seemed wonderful.“That’s a long time to tie up our futures.”And a long time for her to be his submissive.
“In personal time, it is.In terms of business, successive quarters, mergers, acquisitions, sales, due diligence reports, it’s nothing.”
Which brought her to item B again.“Loyalty to you as a husband… I love my father.Our marriage will end, but he’s my father forever.”
“Turn to me.My shoulders are broad.You may see it as a conflict, but the truth is, this is for him, as well.There’s no more selfless act than to help save the business that matters so much to him.”
The paper was between them, and she met his gaze.“You make it sound easy.”
“It doesn’t have to be difficult.He’s cantankerous and perhaps overwhelmed.”
“Stubborn.Which makes you two a bit alike.”
“I think that was meant as an insult.”But there was no acrimony in his tone.
“It wasn’t meant that way.”
“I believe you.”
“As for my house, I’d like to keep it.”
“You could rent it out.”
“I’m not sure I want to put my belongings in storage for that long.And I’d hate to sell it.I shopped for it for years, and… It may seem ridiculous, but it’s mine.I want somewhere to go back to when this is over.Would you consider moving in with me?”The idea made her blood heat.She pictured him naked, enjoying Saturday breakfast, coming home after a business trip.
“I prefer to be downtown near the office.”
“I understand that, especially for a single man.And my yard is my respite from the world.I have enough room for you to be comfortable.Will you think about it, at least?”
“Lara—”
“For me?”
“Now who’s not fighting fair?”
“Thank you.”She leaned toward him and kissed his forehead.
His eyes widened for a moment before he schooled his reaction.But she’d had a glimpse.For all his gruffness, he did have a softer side.If she weren’t careful, she might start to fall for this man.Nothing could be more dangerous to her emotional and mental health.
“That’s it?No further objections?”
“The financials are fairly straightforward.I’ll get you mine.But we have to sort all of these things out.”
“Do you have plans this evening?”
