Page 130 of Wicked Dares
“There you go, son,” he says. “Signed, sealed, and delivered.”
Relief settles through me like a balm on a sore.
There was so much attached to me getting this deal, but earning Arthur Lockwood’s trust was the biggest thing.
And I have to admit my lie no longer sits well with me.
I wouldn’t have cared before. He was being such a big pain in my ass I never thought I’d feel anything from earning his trust based on a false reality I created. But I know he genuinely became fond of Piper and me.
“Thank you,” I tell him honestly. “For trusting me.”
Arthur tilts his head and looks me over. “You won me over, son. Can’t say that about many people these days.”
The statement lands heavily, making the guilt twist deeper.
“You definitely made a believer out of me.” He nods.
“Thank you.”
Piper and I are real now. The lie is gone. I have to think of it like that.
There’s just one more thing left to do.
“I know I originally promised one of the other analysts would oversee the ongoing maintenance side of the investments, but…” I pause briefly. “I’d actually like to handle it personally myself. If you’re alright with that.”
Arthur’s brows lift immediately, and he studies me for a second before smirking.
“Well, now. Guess this means you’re not eager to get rid of me after all.”
I smile. “Am I that obvious?”
“Yes. But… son, you practically became part of the family over the last few weeks.” Arthur’s grin widens. “I wasn’t planning on letting you disappear on me that easily, either.”
“Is that right?”
“Damn straight.” He chuckles heartily, but then a look of seriousness washes over his face. “My Ellie Mae and I would love to see you marry that girl of yours, and we’d like you to visit us at the vineyard from time to time. Stay in touch outside of business.”
I nod with appreciation. “I’d like that, too.”
I don’t even bother to talk down the marriage part. I’d only look like a fool.
“Alright, Levi Vale. That sounds like a plan.” He extends his hand to shake mine.
I shake his hand and nod. “I’ll be in touch in a few days when everything is in motion.”
“I look forward to hearing from you.”
Mission accomplished.
I just closed one of the biggest deals of my career.
Now all I can think about is getting home to Piper.
* * *
The aroma of warm banana bread and vanilla fills the air as I walk into my home.
I loosen my tie as I walk farther, following the scent straight toward the kitchen.
