Page 87 of All Tied Down

And that’s fine by me.

“I’m trying to pick my words carefully,” I tell her, making sure she can hear the smile in my voice.

“Just say it.”

“I like being the beneficiary of you making yourself into a blanket,” I tell her and she snorts out a laugh.

“It’s not my fault you’re comfortable and”—she lets out a little growl when I wrap my arms around her, locking her to me and holding her tight—“this is perfect.”

“I know.”

“Don’t get cocky.”

“Says the woman who created a movie night wonderland in the backyard.”

“I just gave Theo the vision.” Pausing, she adds, “And my credit card.”

“I’ve never had an outdoor movie night.”

“You’re still not—we’re not watching the movie.”

“It’s the thought that counts.”

“Is it?” she asks, lifting up enough to look at me.

“It is.” Rolling us to the side, I tangle our legs together and cocoon her in my arms. “Because tonight feels pretty awesome with or without the movie.”

“Why’s that?”

“Because I missed you too.”

I missed you more than you’ll ever know.

34

GARRETT

After the impromptu movie night, I made it a point to romance Emerson a bit more.

Hold her longer.

Kiss her deeper.

Give her more moments of quiet.

I even sent flowers to her office which got me a don’t do that again text and the most epic blow job of my life when she got home.

Balance.

“Garrett, I need you to focus,” Theo barks, snapping his fingers for emphasis. “The fundraiser is in two weeks. Garrett, we need to make sure your suit is ready to go. Emerson, your alterations are done—they just need you to try it on again.”

“You got a dress?” I ask, surprised. She has a closet full of evening gowns, so I just assumed she’d pick one of those.

My eyes bounce between Theo and Emerson who are both staring at me like this should be a given. But I’ve never had a wife who runs a billion-dollar company, so what do I know?

“Yes,” Emerson says slowly, “I got a dress.” More pointedly, she adds, “For you.”

For me?