"I'm really not."
"To me you are, you’re perfect for me." His thumb brushes across my lower lip. "Do you have any idea how incredible you are?"
Heat floods my cheeks. "You might have mentioned it once or twice."
"I'll keep mentioning it until you believe me."
"That could take a while."
"Good thing I'm patient."
We're interrupted by the doorbell. The party rental company has arrived.
For the next two hours, the house is controlled chaos. Tables are set up. Chairs arranged. A small portable bar installed in the corner. Serving stations prepared in the kitchen.
I'm in my element, directing traffic, solving problems, making sure every detail is exactly right. Maybe I should look at being a party planner in the future. Maybe. Probably not. Although, I’m enjoying this more than I should be.
Ethan stays close but doesn't interfere. He lets me work, only stepping in when I ask for his opinion. But I can feel his gaze on me, warm and approving.
Around five thirty, I finally step back to survey the results.
The dining room has been transformed into an elegant party space. Soft lighting from carefully placed candles. Beautifulfloral arrangements. Place settings that look like they belong in a magazine.
"We did it," I breathe.
"You did it," Ethan corrects. "I just bankrolled your vision."
"It was a team effort."
He comes to stand beside me, sliding an arm around my waist. "Thank you, Lily. For all of this."
"You're welcome." I lean into him, letting myself enjoy the moment. "Your mom and sister are going to love it."
"I know they will. But right now, I'm more concerned about you."
"Me?"
"You've been running on adrenaline all day. When's the last time you ate?"
I try to remember. "Breakfast?"
"Lily." There's gentle reproach in his voice. "That was seven hours ago."
"I've been busy."
"I know. Which is why you're going to sit down right now and eat something while I get ready."
"But—"
"No arguments." His voice firms up in a way that makes my stomach flip. "Sit. Eat. That's not a request. You don’t want to test me on this, little girl. You won’t like the consequences of disobeying."
My pussy clenches. I remember how I asked for this, always wanted it and here it is. Maybe in a different box than I’d dreamt up. Turns out reality is much better than daydreams.
"Okay," I hear myself say.
His expression softens. "Good girl."
There it is again. Those two words that make me feel seen and valued and safe.
