“Price Industries’ greatest asset has always been its people.Every employee deserves to be treated with professionalism and basic human decency.”
As I caught Meghan’s brilliant smile from the corner of my eye, a surge of determination flooded through me.This was the chance I’d been waiting for—the opportunity to steer Price Industries in a new direction.No longer would we tolerate the toxicity that had plagued our workplace for so long.
“I know there will be challenges ahead, but I’m confident that by working together and upholding our core values, we can usher in a new era of success for this company.An era defined not just by profits, but by the way we treat each other and the indelible mark we leave on the world around us.”
My mother’s lips were pursed in that familiar expression of disapproval.But I felt no need to seek her validation.The path forward was clear.
“I won’t let you down,” I said, my voice ringing with sincerity.“Price Industries’ best days lie ahead.”
With those words, I retook my seat, the weight of my new responsibilities settling over me.It would be a daunting road, fraught with obstacles and opposition.But as I thought about the future I had laid out with Callie, I knew I wouldn’t be walking that path alone.
CHAPTER THIRTY
CALLIE
“So, what does this mean?”
When Emmett called me after the impromptu board meeting, I hadn’t known what to expect.I definitely hadn’t expected to arrive at his apartment to find him opening a bottle of champagne.My mouth fell open when he revealed that Gene had been unceremoniously removed from his position and that he had been named president of Price Industries.
Emmett frowned.“Well, I thought it was pretty obvious.I’m president of the company.”
I rolled my eyes, only to see Emmett’s darken.
“What have I told you about rolling your eyes at me, Miss Winters?”He prowled toward me, graceful like a predator.
“Nuh-uh!No sir!We’retalkingright now.I have questions.”I stopped his approach with a firm hand on his chest.
He pouted, then waved a hand, feigning exasperation.“Proceed with your inquisition.”
“Thank you very much.”I cleared my throat.“First, what does this mean for Special Projects?Is the department…going away?”
It would be a devastating outcome, to be sure—and I wasn’t just thinking selfishly.They had done so much good over the years.I would have hated to see that end.
“Of course not!I’d never let that happen.In fact, I’m hoping that I can grow the team even more in this role—make a bigger impact.”
“So, you’ll still be leading Special Projects, then?”
“For a time.There will be a transition period until we find someone to take over leading the team on a day-to-day basis.”
I nodded, lips pursed.
“Next question?”
“And what does this mean for…for us?”
Emmett frowned.“What do you mean?”
“Well, we just told everyone we were together and now you’represidentof the company.That can’t be allowed, right?”
I knew I was being a pain in the ass, but I needed to hear him say it.
He sighed patiently.“I know it’s going to take some time for you to believe this, but let me try to make it as clear as possible.”He palmed my cheeks and stared directly into my eyes as he spoke.“I love you.I will love you proudly and openly whether you work for me or for Glenn or if you don’t work at all.”I pulled what I was certain was an unattractive face.Emmett laughed and pressed his forehead to mine.“Though I expect you will work until the very day you go to your grave, Miss Winters.”
I huffed my approval and let him continue.
“This is not some fling, and our relationship is not something I’m taking lightly.I won’t let this promotion, or anything else, interfere with what we have going here.Got it?”
“Got it.”My eyes filled, and I gave him a watery smile.
