“We’re gonna do this together, Reagan. What matters to you matters to me now. Other than gun control, I mean.”
I roll my eyes. “Here we go. Our ideological differences are going to lead to arguments, you know.”
“Yeah. But I’d rather have you than a woman who agrees with everything I say.”
I snort-laugh at that. “Good, because I don’t. And I won’t.”
“Work for me,” he says, a pleading note in his tone. “Say you will. I want you on my team so goddamn bad, Reagan.”
My lips quirk into a smile. “Persuade me.”
He clears his throat, fighting back a smile. “Excuse me?” he says to the driver.
“Yes, sir?”
“We’re actually going to the Palmer House, please.”
I consider telling him if more outrageously amazing sex at our favorite hotel is his plan for the morning, he might as well have an employment agreement for my hiring sent to my email.
But, nah. I’d rather make him earn it.
Chapter 29
Reaganand I are standing in front of the podium, but she’s off to the side, staring out into the sea of reporters. I clear my throat, giving her hand a quick squeeze before releasing it as the crowd quiets down.
“Thank you for coming today. Even though we’re on the eve of Election Day, I felt the need to clear the air and explain to the voters of Illinois about my relationship with Reagan Preston.”
Camera flashes are going off, momentarily blinding me. I blink a few times to clear my eyes and begin to read from the piece of paper in front of me.
“Reagan and I didn’t know each other before hitting the campaign trail. We’d never spoken before that first Q&A. But we quickly formed a friendship.” I turn over the papers and decide to speak from the heart. “I know how that sounds to many people. It’s hard to comprehend two people who are so opposite being friends, but it happens every day. Reagan doesn’t sway my thoughts or opinions any more than a husband’s views change those of his wife. Many Americans have a significant other who has differing thoughts and opinions on everything from gun control to sports teams. That’s what makes our nation great. Our ability to embrace our differences and still love each other.”
I glance at Reagan and hold my hand out to her so she comes closer. “My relationship with Reagan has not changed my views or opinions on anything. I intend to keep my promises to the voters of Illinois. I know many people feel we should be enemies, but that’s one of the problems in our great country. We have to find a way to work together, a commonality to fight for the greater good in order for our country to be the very best.”
“I want to reassure voters that Reagan hasn’t changed me, except to make me a better man. She’s kind and gentle where my edges are rough and unpolished. I’m new to the political arena, and having her by my side will help me navigate the sometimes stormy and unforgiving waters of Washington. I look forward to representing you and all the people of Illinois in the United States Senate.”
We walk off the stage holding hands, while the reporters behind us are hurling questions and yelling our names.
“You handled that really well,” Reagan says when we’re finally alone behind the curtain. “You got this.”
I pull her against me and wrap an arm around her waist. “We’ll see when the voters go to the polls tomorrow.”
“Jude.” She brushes her fingertips against my cheek. “Who’s going to beat you?” Her eyes sparkle as she smiles up at me. “I’m the only one who could have.”
I can’t contain my amusement. “There’s no one else I’d rather lose to than you, Ms. Preston.”
“Maybe someday,” she says, leaning forward and kissing me. “Tomorrow’s going to be a long day.”
I smirk against her lips. “Well, I better get you to bed, then.”
She laughs softly and kisses me again before we make our exit through the kitchen and into a waiting car. I’ve had enough of the media for today. The only thing I want to do is get home, undress Reagan, and lose myself in her.
Six MonthsLater
“Senator Titan,” My secretary Gwen’s voice echoes in my office.
“Yes,” I say into the intercom and toss my pen onto the desk.
“Ms. Preston is here to see you, sir.”
