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I adore the Botsfords. They’ve made a place in their family for me — for my mother — but I can’t deny the wanderlust in me. I can’t sit still for too long. I don’t know if I even could.
“I’m not sure,” I say, finding my voice.
“What aren’t you sure about?” Oliver asks. “Let’s hash it out. Is it money?”
“No,” I say before quickly tilting my head. “Well, maybe. A little.”
“Whatever Graham pays you, add ten percent.”
“It’s not just about money, but…” I chuckle as that number sinks in. “Let’s remember that offer. For sure.”
Oliver smiles. “Then, what is it?”
I can’t trust myself with you.
I swallow hard, unable to say it aloud. “I’m not sure Graham can live without me,” I joke.
“Don’t worry,” he says. “Somehow, I think the billionaire will manage just fine.”
“Maybe you’re right,” I say. “But…”
I can’t trust myself with you.
“You don’t have to say yes,” he says. “Just don’t say no yet.”
I nod, giving him a quick smile. “I’ll think about it,” I say. “All right?”
Oliver sits back, noticing the very firm pin I stuck in this conversation.
“All right,” he repeats as he reaches for his fork. “Now, I really have to take another bite of this cupcake.”
I wave a hand. “Go right ahead.”
As he scoops another bite into his mouth, I take a second moment to think it over. There’s a part of me, a not-so-small part, that just wants to scream yes.
Yes, let me keep this job.
Yes, let me live off airport coffee and cookies from the Botsford Plaza welcome committees.
Yes, Oliver.
Take me with you.
I look down, smothering the thought before it grows into an even greater urge.
Oliver gasps.
“What?” I ask with a flinch.
He raises his fork, presenting the maraschino cherry. “There’s a cherry hidden inside the icing?” he asks, excitedly.
I chuckle. “It’s all yours.”
He shoves it into his mouth. “Best. Bakery. Ever.”
CHAPTER 24
OLIVER
