My cheeks burst into flames.
My father-in-law laughs.
“You, my dear, just gave yourself away.”
I pat the back of my hands against my warm cheeks. “In a moment like this, I wish I had a poker face.”
He taps the tip of my nose. “You’re real and genuine. That’s what won Phoenix over and that’s what won Slate, Wilder, and me over,” he says. “Roman will fall under your charm when you two meet.” His expression changes to something unreadable. “You’re good for my son.”
I’m not sure what to make of his confession.
“Phoenix is good for me, too.”
“It’s like your father had a sixth sense,” Soren says.
“I agree.”
“Niels orchestrated a big production. It was a gamble to bring together two complete strangers living on opposite sides of the country in the most unorthodox way. Yet, it seems it was meant to be.”
I can only nod.
His words make me dizzy with hope, drunk with possibility. My throat tightens, as the wave of emotion takes over me.
Thud.
Thud.
Thud.
My stupid heart trips.
“What are you telling my wife, Dad?”
Startled, I turn around.
My gorgeous husband is standing there, a huge grin stretching his beautiful lips.
“Just a little daughter-in-law-father-in-law talk. Butt out, son.”
Phoenix struts towards us with a confident step.
“Not a chance. I’m here to rescue Michaela.” He wraps a possessive arm around my shoulders, pulling me close to hismuscular body. Even with the apron, he’s still the consummate alpha. “I hope I’m not too late. God knows what damage you’ve already done.”
A small grin touches Soren’s face.
I let out a girlish giggle. “I know every sordid detail of your life.”
“Lies. All lies,” Phoenix says. “Don’t believe anything my father just told you.” He waves a warning finger at Soren.
“I was telling your wife, that despite your fake beginnings, destiny brought you together.”
I stop breathing because holy fuck that’s a big statement, and it’s out there.
“In my humble opinion, Michaela and you belong together”—Soren pauses for a beat—“for real.”
My worried eyes snap up to Phoenix’s.
For a long moment, he stares at his father.
