Lib Novel Page 126
The elevator stops, and unease settles in my chest.
Why is it so important for me to share the news with Daisy?
She’s temporary, after all, and if these past few days have taught me anything, it’s that she wants things in life I can never provide—love, affection, family.
“Hey, where are you going?” she says, her steps hurried to match mine, as I don’t stop at her desk but walk inside my office. “So what’s this non-urgent, yet important news?”
“The board has unanimously agreed to make me CEO.” The excitement coursing through my veins minutes ago has vanished, and I have no clue why.
The irritated creases on Daisy’s forehead soften. Her mouth opens and closes as if she’s trying to say something, but no words come out. And then she rushes into my arms with such speed that I have to take two steps back to find my balance.
She finally gasps. “Is it really true?”
All my previous anxiety evaporates in an instant in the wake of her happiness. I nod and her hands loop behind my neck, her bottom resting against my forearms as she sticks to me like a koala bear with a giant smile.
“You did it, Charles. You finally got those stupid old men to see that there’s no one more deserving than you to lead your family’s business.”
I’ve heard those words numerous times, but from her mouth, I know they’re not merely words. They’re truth.
“It’s not I, but we. We did it together. I couldn’t have done any of this without you, and I’m not just talking about now.” I motion to the tiny space between us. “I’m referring to all the work you’ve done all the previous years.”
When her pink lips curl up, I feel like someone has hit my heart with a gong.
She has no fucking idea how precious she is to me.
And then a teasing, knowing smile returns to her face. “Who knew you were such a softie at heart.”
“In case you’ve forgotten, I can once again get you accustomed to the hardest part of me.”
And I’m not kidding. I’ve never been so fucking hard.
Everything I’ve wanted is right in front of me, and the woman in my arms is the most important among all.
A blush creeps up on Daisy’s face like every other time I say something dirty to her. The pink hue starts from her cheeks, crawling down to her chin and neck. I love knowing I’m the reason behind her flustered state.
She makes an attempt to get away from my hold, but I don’t let her.
“Charles!” She squeals as I walk farther into my office. “Put me down.”
“Nope. You might have jumped into my arms on your own, but I’m the one who decides when you leave, Mrs. Hawthorne.”
“What do you mean?” She squeals once again as I settle her down on my chair behind my desk and lean forward.
“I want to thank you.” I push her curl behind her ear, and my hands drift to her hair clip.
“Charles, I cannot accept another damn expensive gift.”
“Good. Because I’m not planning on giving you anything. I just have words today.”
Her irritated brows relax as her lips curl into a smile. “Now this will be a change. Charles A. Hawthorne has words.”
“Don’t worry, this is exclusively for my wife.” For some reason, the words that sit right on my tongue don’t find their way out, and I’m about to say some nonsense when Daisy holds my face in her hands.
“Charles, if you ever need a person to share something with, I’m always here.”
My hands rest above hers. I’m really fucking in her debt for her unconditional support, even when it comes with a heavy dose of craziness. “I usually do such talking with my cousins. But it’s not just about me today. I couldn’t have done this without you. Thanks for never leaving my side and for sticking with me.”
She smiles, so soft, so genuine. “I’m happy you think so. But you’ve spent all your life working toward this. I can’t say the same. I’m sure there’re many people who have done bigger things than handling your calls and preparing for your meetings.”