"Promise."
"Even after day sixty?"
"Especially after day sixty." I stroke her cheek with my thumb. "There is no day sixty anymore, Emmy. There's just ... us. For as long as you'll have me."
"I'm yours too, you know. You don't get to be possessive alone. It goes both ways."
"No?"
"No. You're mine just as much as I'm yours."
Something in my chest loosens at her words. "Good."
This stopped being about the inheritance weeks ago.
This stopped being fake the moment we kissed.
I'm fighting for her now. Not for Violet's estate, not for my managing partner position, not for any reason except that I love her.
I haven't said the words yet. But I will.
Just as soon as I make sure no one can take her away from me.
===
EPILOGUE
ADRIAN
"The partners have voted..."
Judith stops speaking, letting her words hang, making me wait through an excruciating pause.
"Congratulations, Adrian. You're our new managing partner."
I should feel triumphant. Instead, I feel ... incomplete. I want to tell Emmy. Such a leap from my normally regimented, solitary life, since my instinct now, whether it's good or bad news, is to tell her first.
When did that happen?
Back in my office, I pull out my phone to text her when I hear a knock on the door.
"Come in."
Lo and behold, it's her. My girl. The love of my life.
Emmy enters holding a paper bag high, her face beaming in a genuine smile. "Sip'O'Clock time. So? Don't keep me in suspense. I have your celebratory drink and cake right here."
"I got it. Managing partner."
"Yay!"
She sets down the coffee and cake, crosses to me, and hugs me tight. "I'm so proud of you."
I hold her close, and this—this is what makes it real. Sharing it with her.
"It doesn't feel complete without you here."
Emmy pulls back. "Well, I'm here now."
