“You didn’t think to mention that?” I whisper to Sawyer once I’m seated and Monty continues his speech like he wasn’t just put on pause for five minutes.
“I’m sorry, Amelie,” he whispers back to me, sounding genuine. “Things aren’t that simple and I will explain later, but I did mislead you into thinking you’d take one of the seats. I also discovered that Harold already stacked laws in his favour, which actually works inourfavour now.”
“I think you’re right, let’s discuss this later.” I turn away from him, essentially cutting him off, though I don’t mean to be a bitch about it. I just need a moment to process. I’m not mad about the seats, but keeping my brother and Bex’s attendance from me? That’s big.
Not to mention heknewshe’s my sister and didn’t say anything. Why? What can be so complicated that he’sstillkeeping secrets from me?
I sigh, my heart suddenly heavy.
“You okay?” Kalen asks, concern etched on his face.
“Yeah.” I force a small smile. “It was just a surprise is all. I’m glad they’re here.”
“Good. God, I hope Dad wraps it up soon, I’m so nervous.”
“Why are you nervous?”
“I have to welcome the females. It’s part of my delegated role, so yeah, thanks for that, boss lady.”
“Never struck you as the nervous around the opposite sex type,” I tease.
Kalen winks at me. “Good point.” And just like that he’s fine again. I laugh and the room breaks out into applause and all eyes turn to me.
I give a tight smile and a pretty lame wave. I have no idea what Monty just said, I’m definitely distracted. Understandably, but still, this is work. I have to conceal my emotions. I don’t need to share them with a room full of employees.
As the applause dies down, Kalen gets to his feet and gives a heartfelt speech about The Order moving into the twenty-first century and how things can only get better now that we have women amongst us. I’m pretty sure he quoted a few songs and movies, but it’s the thought that counts.
I join the room in clapping for our female members, who all get to their feet for a bow. Then once again, all eyes are on me.
“I know I’m meant to give a rousing, inspirational speech, but I’m hungry. Can we eat?” There’s laughter. “Thank you all for joining us here tonight to celebrate. I hope the food’s good and you won’t be disappointed.”
More laughter but when I sit back down and they realise I’m not going to say anything else, a smattering of fractured applause breaks out and eventually everyone joins in. I nod at Monty and a second later the ballroom doors open and waiters flood in with the appetisers.
“Thank fuck,” I groan as soon as the pan seared scallops are placed in front of me. Kalen chuckles.
“Perks of being the boss, you get fed first.”
I dig in. No way am I waiting for a hundred plus people to have their meals in front of them. Mine’ll be cold by then if I do.
It tastes amazing, the scallops virtually melting in my mouth and full of buttery, salty goodness from the dressing. They’re delicious, but far too soon they’re gone. Kalen takes pity on me and gives me his last one. I kiss his cheek.
“I knew there was a reason why you’re my favourite,” I joke.
“Cupboard love, but I’ll take it,” he replies with a laugh.
“I’m teasing, Kalen. I love you,” I tell him seriously. A gorgeous grin lights up his entire face and he leans in to kiss me. “I should have said it sooner.”
“You have,” he protests.
“Not like this. I love you, am crazy in love with you, and I think it’s the forever kind of love.”
“It is.”
“Your mum said I’m going to be her daughter-in-law soon, and it freaked me out.”
“Don’t freak out. You’re the boss. We work to your timeline.”
“I’m the boss of The Order, not our relationship. We’re equals in that, and I realised how serious you were being when you told me you loved me in Australia. You put your heart on the line for me, and I didn’t say it back, even though I already felt it. I’m sorry. I don’t want to waste any more time. I love you.”
