Page 143 of My Favorite Hero

“He said he felt my hesitation, and he had a backup plan. He offered me a different scenario.”

I sat down, pulling her with me. “Which is?”

“I would still undertake the project, but with an assistant of my choice. I would fly there and get it rolling. Be available every day for meetings and Zoom. Fly back when needed and promise to be there at least one week a month. The money would be less, but still substantial. And I would split the bonuses with my number two.”

“That sounds great.”

“I’d still be gone for a week every month.”

“So we schedule your week for when I start my two-day shift. Then I only have to get through five days without you. And I’ll use my saved-up time and come with you every second month.”

“You would?”

“Yes.”

She worried her lip. “I’d be gone for about three weeks to start.” She paused. “What about Barney and Miller?”

“I’ll make arrangements. And while I’m off, I’ll rip down walls. And visit if you want.” I waggled my eyebrows. “Think of the hotel sex.”

“I’ve never had hotel sex.”

“I’ll make sure you enjoy it.”

“And you’d be here…?” She trailed off.

“Waiting. Yes. We can do this, Casey. You get your dream, I get you. It’s not forever. You told me you always come in early on projects.”

“Yes.”

“Then tell him to send the contract and sign it.”

“I already did.”

I smiled. “Good. I think we should celebrate.”

“How?”

“Pot roast sounds good.”

She laughed, and it was good to see the smile on her face. “I should have known. Onion gravy?” she asked.

I kissed her. “You know it.”

CASEY

I turned to Jesse, burrowing myself into his arms. “I don’t want to go.”

He laughed quietly, his breath ruffling my hair. “Yes, you do. You are going to be amazing, Pix. And I’ll be waiting here when you get back. You can call me anytime. Text me. Zoom. We’ll see each other every day. Talk all the time.”

He stepped back, lifting my chin. “I am so proud of you, Casey. And I love you more than I thought was possible.”

“I love you too,” I whispered, trying not to cry.

“It’s only three weeks.”

“Sooner, if I get things done fast.”

“Then do that. Work hard and fast. Come back to me.”