Page 158 of Punishing His Runaway Bride

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I hauled a cardboard box out of the shop. Leo darted ahead, splashed into a puddle, soaking his pant legs. He crouched to inspect the water when someone stepped around, nearly bumping him.

"Watch it." The guy bent down, steadied Leo.

Leo looked up, locked eyes, froze for two full seconds, then exploded.

"Seb!"

He dropped my hand, barreled into Sebastian's arms, wrapped both around his waist, tilted his face up, eyes shining like bulbs. "What are you doing here!"

Sebastian glanced down, hoisted him up, tested his weight. "Gained a few."

"I grew taller!" Leo puffed his chest. "Mom says six whole inches! Did you grow, Seb?"

"Nope."

"Then I beat you," Leo patted his shoulder smugly. "It's okay, you're already tall."

Sebastian chuckled, set him down, then looked at me, surprise flickering. "You're in New York? Thought you were still in France."

"Yep," I said. "You? Here on business?"

"Sort of." He nodded. "What are you up to?"

"My sister's getting married. Running errands for her." I shifted the box in my arms.

"Need a hand?" He reached out, gesturing for it.

"No, I—"

"Mom," Leo tugged my sleeve. "The box is heavy. Let Seb carry it."

I shot Leo a look, handed it over.

Sebastian took it, bounced it lightly. "How much more?"

"Two more inside."

"I'll grab 'em," he said. "You watch Leo." He turned, strode into the shop, all business, like this was part of his plan.

Leo craned his neck after him, tilted his head. "Mom, how's Seb in New York, too?"

"Coincidence."

"Magical," he nodded thoughtfully, then lit up. "Mom, did he bring me bread?"

"Ask him yourself."

Sebastian emerged quickly, boxes stacked, walking steady. He loaded them into the taxi trunk, slammed it shut, dusted his hands.

Leo zipped over, craned up. "Seb, got any financiers?"

Sebastian looked down. "No."

Leo pouted. "You promised."

"Next time," he said. "I owe ya."

Leo pondered, stuck out his hand solemnly. "Pinky swear."

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