 
# Unexpected Company

### #2 of Company Men

## Crystal Perkins

### Contents

Unexpected Company

About Unexpected Company

Books by Crystal Perkins

The Griffin Brothers series

Corrigan & Co. series

Society Girls series

Company Men series

Praise for Books by Crystal Perkins

Things to Know

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Epilogue

Coming Soon

Acknowledgments

About the Author

Copyright © 2017 by Crystal Perkins

Cover Design by Helen Williams

www.allbookedout.com

All trademarks are owned by their respective companies and are denoted by the use of proper capitalization of the company and/or brand. All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book. This contemporary erotic romance is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners. This ebook is licensed for your personal use only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with, especially if you enjoy sexy, emotional, romance novels with alpha males. If you are reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then you should return it and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author's work.

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# About Unexpected Company

**F ather. Brother. Ex-husband.**

Keir Martin is starting his life over in Las Vegas, but he's not alone. His sons are with him, and they're what's important. After his ex-wife left all of them, he can't even begin to think about bringing another woman into their lives, but then he meets her...

**Vice-President. Friend. Lover.**

Grace Faulkner has worked hard to earn her place in Corporate America, despite the men who tried to bring her down. She's impressed with Keir's work, but not the man himself, until he romances her and makes her feel special. His sons make everything with him even better, and she's soon in love with all three of the Martins.

**The past. The present. The future.**

Their fears from the past prove to be too much for them, shattering what they've built, and threatening everything they could have with each other. Can love, and two little boys, bring them back together, or will the past always be in the way?

# Books by Crystal Perkins
# The Griffin Brothers series

Gaming For Love (The Griffin Brothers #1)

Building Our Love (The Griffin Brothers #2)

Creating A Love (The Griffin Brothers #3)

Learning To Love (The Griffin Brothers #4)

Designing The Love (The Griffin Brothers #5)

Working On Love (The Griffin Brothers #6)

Keeping Their Love (The Griffin Brothers #7)

# Corrigan & Co. series

Fielding Her SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #1)

Devouring the SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #2)

Rocking a SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #3)

Lessons in SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #4)

Uncovering His SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #5)

Training the SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #6)

Inheriting a SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #7)

Tending Their SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #8)

Playing in SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #9)

Loving My SECRET (Corrigan & Co., #10)

Society Weddings (a Corrigan & Co. novella)

# Society Girls series

Society Girls: Sierra (Society Girls, #1)

Society Girls: Neveah (Society Girls, #2)

Society Girls: Matisse (Society Girls, #3)

Society Girls: Waverly (Society Girls, #4)

Society Girls: Rhieve (Society Girls, #5)

Society Girls: Jenysis (Society Girls, #6)

Society Girls: Harlow (Society Girls, #7)

Society Girls: Camari (Society Girls, #8)

Society Girls: Kalila (Society Girls, #9)

Society Girls: Rose (Society Girls, #10)
**Company Men series**

Royal Company (Company Men, #1)

* * *

**Other books**

A Kiss is Just a Kiss

Activate

Never Fear-Phobias Horror Anthology

(Chronophobia short story)

Never Fear-Christmas Terrors Anthology

(Silent Fright short story)

Romantic Times Anthology, Vol. 3

(Gary and Maggie Griffin short story)

Never Fear-The Tarot Anthology

# Praise for Books by Crystal Perkins

"People should be free to love whoever their heart leads them, too. And this author did a great job of presenting a passionate love between 2 people who are seen as different from each other as dictated by society, but this difference wasn't a part of the love they share. Ms. Perkins did an admirable job of dealing with the issue (and other issues) as a non issue, if that makes sense." -DianeM, Amazon Reviewer, _Creating A Love_

"I love this series!!!!!! Crystal has the amazing ability to bring her characters to life. I laugh with them, I hurt with them, I smile with them, and I cry with them." -Jessica, Amazon reviewer, _The Griffin Brothers series_

"I love how Crystal makes the characters feel like real people." -Tami, Amazon Reviewer, _Learning To Love_

"This is a lovely romance story that has a sexy sizzle to it but it's funny as well as it is somewhat edgy. I like that the hero has money but it's not the focal point in this story. I love that the heroine has problems but they are not so insurmountable that they take over the story. This is good old-fashioned romance done with a modern day twist. Well Done." -Kindle Customer, Amazon Reviewer, _Gaming For Love_

"I found this book on Amazon yesterday and loved the cover. I read the synopsis and knew I had to get it. So I purchased it and started to read it right away. Oh my, I could not put the book down. I got so wrapped up in the story I was afraid to put my Kindle down or I would miss a part." -Amazon Customer, _Gaming For Love_

"I thought this was a fantastic start to a series, and kind of first book of a series that makes you want to rush out and buy each additional book in the series. The premise of a strong group of women working together to help other women in need was pretty awesome. I loved how C0rrigan & Co was a secret covert company along the same lines as the underground railroad but it saved women from sticky situations or abusive relationships." -Aubrey, Romancing the Book blog, _Fielding Her SECRET_

"I had so many different emotions while reading. I was rooting people, wanting kick people, wanting to rip some peoples clothes off, laughing while reading, gasping out loud. Seriously, I read this like a crazy person. So much happened that I was not mentally prepared for. There were so many shockers while reading this I could not even think about putting the book down." -Sabrina, Amazon Reviewer, _Devouring the SECRET_

"Love this book the suspense and sex is EPIC." -Teresa Jensen, Amazon Reviewer, _Rocking a SECRET_

_"_ Perkins breathes life into their characters and has the reader feeling their agony, pain, and even their love for one-another. I enjoy reading her books and learning more and more about each of the people that make up this secretive group." -Dayreader Reviews, _Corrigan & Co. series_

"In the end I am somehow proud of you Crystal Perkins. How you portrayed Ellie and her and Aiden love. I know I have no right to be, and it's really not my place to say but I am proud I read it and I recommend it to all women so they can see how strong We can be." -Marta Bukowska, Goodreads Reviewer, _Tending Their SECRET_

"The story flowed well and kept my attention throughout. There was one part I was totally not expecting to happen. I love when that happens." -Lisa Dess, Girls With Books blog, _Training Her SECRET_

"Wow this story! There are some stories and characters that leave you speechless, breathless and at times slightly broken, and Loving my SECRET Matt & Reina's story is definitely one of them!" -Vicki Plant, Goodreads Reviewer, _Loving My SECRET_

"I laughed I cried and there many times that I wanted to throw my device." -Mallory, Goodreads Reviewer, _Loving My SECRET_

"Perkins gives the reader a quick peak into the Weddings of the amazing ladies in the society. What a fun roller coaster ride it was." -Taz Lozada, Goodreads Reviewer, _Society Weddings_

"Totally loved this book as I did with all of crystals book previous to this with their well written gripping story lines brilliant characters a must read really can't wait for the next in series." – Sassylady33, Amazon Reviewer, _Society Girls: Sierra_

"It is banter central, lol and completely full with characters who you actually get to know and enjoy spending time with." – All Booked Out, _A Kiss is Just a Kiss_

"Good book and a really powerful message." Petrina, Goodreads Reviewer, _Society Girls: Jenysis_

"If you're looking for a great book, this is the one." Renee, Goodreads Reviewer, _Society Girls: Kalila_

"I love these books!!!! I seem to read them in one sitting I just can't put them down!!!" Rita, Amazon Reviewer

# Things to Know

If you haven't read any of the Corrigan & Co. books, you can still read this book. I'm listing some info below that will be helpful to you!

The Society: A secret group of female spies, operating out of the Corrigan & Co. Foundation. It was created by Jane Corrigan, Maggie Griffin, Helen Wilson, Mallory Daniels, and Cyndi Evans. They still make their presence known from time to time, but the Society is now run by Reina Corrigan. She is the wife of Jane's grandson, Matt Corrigan, and someone not to be trifled with.

The male characters in Company Men are all brothers, or friends, of the spies. Most of the women in the books will not know of their existence, since those who work for Corrigan & Co. have no idea what the beautiful women of the Foundation really do. Some are in awe of them, and some resent how they seem to come and go, and do whatever they want.

Corrigan & Co.: Matthew Corrigan runs this public side of the company. One of the most powerful men in the world, he's ruthless in business, and would do anything to protect his wife, and their friends. His brother, Miles, works alongside him, running the Acquisitions department, and doing what he can to help the Society women. His wife, Alex, runs the front desk at the Foundation. Their love story was in the book, _Working on Love_ , which is always free in ebook format, on all platforms.

Keir, in this book, is brother to Ainsley, the nerdy computer genius, who fell for cocky football player, Zack, in _Fielding Her SECRET_. His sister, Sierra, joined the Society, and was romanced by Brazilian baseball player, Joel, in _Society Girls: Sierra_.

Confused? You can always message or email me if you need clarification on something!
**_For all the single parents out there._**

# Prologue

Keir

When you're a grown man, you don't want your little sister getting you a job. Really, you don't want her helping you out with _anything_. I'm supposed to be helping Ainsley navigate through life, not the other way around.

Never mind that she's a tech genius spy, married to one of the most successful running backs in the NFL. Or that I'm the recently divorced father of two whose wife left him because he wasn't "fun, or rich enough". I'm still the _older_ brother, and I shouldn't be here, talking to Miles Corrigan about a job. Did I mention he's younger than me, too?

Okay, that makes me sound like an ass, when I'm really not. I don't care what age someone is, as long as they're a decent human being. It's just my insecurities over being dumped for not being "enough", and the fact my nerdy tomboy of a sister is now a badass with Twitter accounts dedicated to her glasses, that has me thinking stupid thoughts. Thoughts I'm clearing my head of as I step off the elevator at Corrigan & Co., onto the floor Miles calls his own.

I've met the former baseball star, who now runs the Acquisitions division of his family's company. He's smart, funny, and earned his place here. It's one thing I admire about the Corrigan brothers—they are extremely loyal to each other and those in their circle, but they don't float by on their last name.

I walk towards the office that takes up the back portion of the floor. There's a woman sitting in the desk outside the large wooden doors, and I'm thankful to see her right now. Everyone around me is moving around like the floor's on fire, and I feel bad about stopping any of them. An assistant is used to being bothered, so no worries there.

"Hi, I'm here to see Miles, but I was wondering if you could help me out with something as well."

"What do you need?" she asks, without even looking up.

"A water, please."

She does look up then, and there's no smile on her face. It's a beautiful face, so I'm a little bummed out about the missing smile. Her hair is a riot of browns and reds, from dark to light, all mixing together in a sleek fall past her shoulders. Her eyes are deep brown, and her cheekbones could cut glass. I force myself to keep my focus on her face, because she already looks angry.

"Excuse me?"

"I'm not used to this dry weather yet, and I'd hate to start coughing in the middle of my interview."

"We wouldn't want that, now would we?"

"No," I tell her, smiling, because I think I've found an ally.

"What did you say your name is?"

"Oh, I don't think I did. It's Keir Martin."

"Huh. I was actually looking forward to your interview after reading over your resume, but now? Now, I'm just going to suggest you don't cough in my direction. Probably don't cough on Miles, either, but he's nicer than me, so I'd go with him as a first choice."

"Wait, what?'

She stands and walks into the office behind her, flipping her hair over her shoulder, and swinging her magnificent ass. Yeah, I'm looking now, and damn if I don't like what I see. Curves that could stop traffic, and legs that go on for miles. I'm not sure who I just pissed off, but I guess I'll find out once my interview begins.

Grace

"He wanted me to get him water, Miles."

"It was a misunderstanding. You were at Susan's desk."

I'm being extra bitchy at the moment, but I hate when people assume that just because I'm a woman, I'm the "assistant" and not a Vice President in this company. Keir Martin is not the first I've encountered, and I know he won't be the last.

"I'm not in the mood to be logical at the moment."

"Obviously not."

"Maybe I overreacted."

"I wasn't going to risk life and limb by suggesting it, but you said he asked, and didn't demand."

"True."

"I want to give him a chance at this job, G, and you were on board before the water thing."

"His resume is pretty perfect for this."

"Yes."

"That's it? Just yes? You're not going to tell me how you found him?"

"Does it matter?"

Only because he won't tell me, but even though I've gotten close to both him, and his wife, Alex, since moving here, he's still the boss. Meaning, I'll let it go—for now.

"Nope."

He presses a button on his desk. "Susan, can you please send Mr. Martin in?"

I flash him the biggest smile in my arsenal. "Can I sit in your chair?"

"Evil. You are pure evil sometimes," he says, getting up and holding out his chair for me.

"You love me."

He leans down to kiss my cheek. "I totally do."

"Um, am I interrupting something? Susan said I should come in."

Miles stands up, and walks over to shake his hand. "Not at all. Grace was just busting my balls."

"Baseball player humor?"

"More like a kickass woman putting me in my place."

"I'm right here, Miles," I tell him, annoyed that he's letting Keir treat me like I'm not.

"I wasn't sure if it was safe to greet you," Keir says with a sheepish smile.

He's too damn handsome, with his tousled blonde hair, grey eyes, and dimples, and I want him to suffer a little longer for it. "Safe is relative."

"I'm sorry for mistaking you for an assistant, but honestly, is that really such a bad thing? Susan seems more capable than some of the bosses I've had in the past."

Double damn him. "It wasn't about the job. I just don't like being underestimated."

"I haven't had the chance to formally meet you, Grace, so it would be hard for me to underestimate you," he tells me, walking over, and holding out his hand.

I shake it firmly. "I'll concede that point."

"Great," Miles says, clapping his hands together. "Now that we're all getting along, let's talk about work."

Keir takes a seat across the desk from me, looking my way before he turns to speak to Miles. "I'm not sure which part of my resume you're looking for."

"All of it."

"What?" Keir and I say in unison. I thought we were hiring him as a photographer.

"I need photos of our new hotel here in Vegas, but I also need someone to look into some other places I'm looking to acquire. Your background in secret shopping, and going undercover, fits perfectly with that."

"We're not acquiring any other Vegas properties right now," I remind him. I'm a little pissed he didn't discuss this with me.

"No. The job will require a little travel."

"I can handle a little," Keir tells him.

He sounds so casual about all this, but I'm getting a bad feeling. "Where exactly are you wanting him to travel to, Miles?"

My boss actually has the grace to look apologetic. "I'd like him to travel with you. Research strongly suggests a couple blends in better than a single person at a restaurant."

"Restaurants?" Keir asks, and I understand his confusion.

"Yes. Grace is my VP, in charge of Hospitality Acquisitions. We've mostly acquired hotels, but there are some restaurants I've been approached about investing in. I obviously can't go in myself to check them out."

"Research, or no, I can do this alone," I insist.

"No one is questioning your skill set, G."

He says it, but part of me doesn't completely believe it. Nothing I can do about it now. Not when Keir's agreeing to the photography, _and_ the undercover work. I'd look like an ass if I complained, and I've worked too hard to get where I am to do that. Time to just suck it up, and get the job done.

# 1

Keir

It's been a week since I signed the contracts in the HR office of C&C. There's no real job description for all Miles needs me to do, but they came up with "Special Project Coordinator". The money is more than I've ever made in my life, and the perks are unreal, so they can call it whatever they want.

I don't have a special Corrigan apartment like my sister did before she moved in with Zack, but I got a huge discount on a rental in Summerlin. The childcare for the building includes school pick-up on days I can't make it, there's the free food, a gym, and the list goes on and on. I'm psyched to be working here, and making a new start for the boys. Connor and Trevor deserve the best, and since it's just me now, I'm going to be the best parent they could ever have.

"Daddy, you have to go!" Trevor tells me, practically pushing me towards the door.

I know he loves the thought of spending the night with his football star uncle, but I still have to give my seven-year-old a hard time. "You want me to go? Don't you love me?"

"I love you, Daddy," Connor tells me. He's almost five, and loves trying to outmaneuver his brother.

"I know you both love me. I'll miss you," I tell them, picking one up in each arm.

"Impressive," my brother-in-law, Zack, says.

"Can't let you be the only one with big guns in this family."

"Save it, bro, before I throw up."

Ainsley mimes gagging, and I pull her into a hug once I put the boys down. "Thanks for watching them for the night."

"Always."

"Thanks for the job, too."

"I just got you the interview."

"Just take the compliment, brat."

"She's still getting used to compliments, even after years of me showering her with them," Zack explains, wrapping his arms around her, and kissing the top of her head.

I'm happy for my sister, because she deserves that kind of love, but at the same time, I wish I had it, too. Not with Jacky, my ex, because that ship sailed the moment she walked out on me and the boys, but with _someone_. The voice in my head—that sounds a lot like Ainsley—reminds me I need to be dating to find that person. As usual, I ignore it, because it's low on my list of priorities right now. Speaking of which, I say a quick goodbye and make my way to the airport.

"You're late," Grace tells me when I board the Corrigan jet we've been assigned for this trip.

"I'm exactly on time."

"Being on time is being late."

"Look, I apologized to you, and I've met every one of your requests over the past week, even though I know some aren't real."

"Excuse me?"

"Part of my job was really to try every brand and type of salsa I could find, and create a spreadsheet on my thoughts about each?"

"We're going to a Mexican restaurant," she reminds me, but there's no missing the sparkle in her eyes, or the smile she's trying to hide.

"I don't need to be a salsa expert to know if the food and service are good."

"If I say you do, then you do."

So, that's how it is. "Yes, boss."

"I don't do this—I'm not like this with anyone else. You just bring it out in me."

"I hurt you, but I swear I didn't mean it. If a guy had been at that desk, I would've asked him for water too."

"Would you have? Really?"

"Yes," I answer without hesitation, because it's the truth.

Grace intrigues me, and I want to know her. Maybe as a friend, and maybe as something more. I can't rush into anything, because of the boys, but I can _start_ something, and see where it goes.

"Can we start over?"

"Dinner tonight can be our first date."

Her eyes go wide, and my mouth is opening and closing with no words coming out. I don't know why I said that. I was _thinking_ it, but those words were not supposed to come out of my mouth.

"This isn't a joke, or a way to get back at me for the salsa, is it?"

"Absolutely not."

"Under other circumstances, I'd like a first date with you."

"What's wrong with our circumstances?"

"I'm your boss."

"Technically, yes, but I have the job title no one understands. Miles was listed on my paperwork as who I report to."

"I've worked hard to be taken seriously."

"No one has to know, but us. They can think the meals we share are still just fake dating."

"You'd be okay with that? With hiding?"

"If it's what you need, yes. When you're ready for people to know, we'll tell them."

"You seem pretty confident we'll want breakfast tomorrow to be our second date."

"I like you, Grace. And honestly, it's been a long time since I liked someone the way I like you."

"You haven't been dating?"

"Since my wife left me, I've been on one date, and that was set up by my sister."

Silence descends as Grace takes that in. I realize we've never brought up my being divorced. Or my boys. I haven't decorated my office yet, since I've been busy moving into the house I'm renting. If tonight goes as well as I hope it does, I'll tell her I have sons. If not, she'll find out anyway. I may be willing to hide her for the time being, but I'll never hide my kids.

Grace

He's divorced. I knew there had to be something that wasn't perfect about this man before me. I'd already noticed his hair and eyes at our first meeting, but over the past week, I've noticed so much more; his muscled forearms, fantastic ass, and once, when he was moving furniture around in his office, his t-shirt lifted a little, and I saw the bottom of a six-pack. I have no shame about looking, and I'll own it if I'm caught.

What do I do now, though? I've already agreed to a date, but that was before I knew he might be pining for an ex. I'm usually comfortable with how I look, and who I am, but I don't normally walk into a losing battle when I'm not at work.

Give me a hostile takeover, and a CEO who doesn't want to deal with a woman, and I'll fight to the death. I fight so hard in my professional life that I need _easy_ in my personal one. One-night stands, casual hookups, and even a previous beneficial relationship with a friend are the norm for me. Dating a guy who's divorced? Not in my wheelhouse. Until now.

"Kids?" I ask, because I want all the info now. No, I _need_ it.

"Two boys. They live with me."

"Your ex is around a lot, then?"

"Not at all. She left us all, and didn't look back."

Great. Rebound all the way, which should be a good thing. For some reason, it's not.

"What are you looking for, Keir?"

"I don't know. I like you, Grace, and I'd like to see if this goes anywhere, but I don't know where we'll end up."

"Are you pining for her?"

"Not even a little."

"You're sure?"

"If I was looking for a rebound fling, I'd have been going out with women over the past year. I'll be honest; my boys are my number one focus."

"Of course."

"So, did I scare you away, or are we still doing this?"

I look him in the eye for almost a full minute, and all I see is honesty in his eyes. I like to think I'm a good judge of character, and the water incident aside, he's been nothing but hard-working and genuine this past week. And he has those abs.

"I don't scare easily."

His smile is wide and real. "Yes?"

"Yes."

I may regret this, but right now, I just don't care. He's smart, sexy, and those dimples should come with a warning. Yeah, I'm in trouble.

# 2

Keir

The first restaurant looks nice enough from the outside. It's somewhat plain, but that can easily be fixed. At least the cacti and plants are well maintained.

"Boring," Grace whispers in my ear, and I smile, because we're on the same page.

"Fixable."

"Yes."

Upon entering, it takes almost five minutes before someone greets us at the hostess stand, and if this really were a first date, I'd have walked us out already. As it is, I'm regretting suggesting this as _our_ first date.

"Even if it doesn't get better, we're here together," Grace reminds me with a smile.

"Mindreading now?"

"You look upset."

"I wanted this to be a good date."

"It will be."

"Since when are you the optimistic one?"

"If I didn't look for the good in some situations, I wouldn't have come as far as I have."

I think about that for a moment; think about being a woman in the business world. Miles, and his brother Matt, don't see gender when hiring and promoting their staff, but others don't work that way. I can't imagine what Grace has gone through.

"I'm glad you're at C&C now."

"Me too."

"I hate to throw my pessimism out there, but shouldn't we have been asked for our drink order by now?"

"We passed pessimism a few minutes ago."

"Thank God for great company in this situation."

"Yes."

A server finally approaches, dropping some chips and salsa on the table. The guy seems annoyed that he has to wait on us, despite the restaurant being half-empty at the moment. We order two different kinds of margaritas, and he disappears again. By the time he's back, we have our order ready, because there's no way we're waiting for him to circle back again.

"Yum," Grace says, taking a sip of her prickly pear margarita.

My standard one tastes great as well. "Delicious."

"They're doing something right."

"Service can be fixed," I agree.

Our food arrives, and smells delicious. I got a chicken chimichanga with sour cream sauce and cheese, and a side of rice. Grace got a combo plate of tacos, and enchiladas with rice and beans. The server sets out two kinds of salsa, and extra napkins before leaving again.

We're quiet as we dig into everything, savoring every bite. I'm thinking there's nothing for the kitchen to work on, until I put the green salsa on some of my chimi, and take a bite. I think I must be wrong, so I take one more bite dripping with salsa.

"This salsa is store bought."

"What?" Grace asks, her eyes going wide.

"It's one of the ones I tasted."

"Are you sure?"

I'm not upset about her second-guessing me, because I don't want to be right, either. "Yeah."

"Damn. I was really enjoying this food, and the margarita."

"Me too."

"How is everything?" a woman we haven't seen yet asks, stepping up to the table.

"Good," Grace tells her with a smile.

We're here to check things out, and not to tell them how we really feel. If this was just a date, I might even ask about the salsa, but as it's not, I just nod and smile. The woman walks away, and I sigh.

"I was hoping for a better first date."

"There's been nothing wrong with this date."

"Bad service, store bought salsa..."

"Amazing margaritas, and the best company."

"Does that mean I might get a kiss later?"

"I'd prefer one now, but if you want to wait, we can."

She looks taken aback for a moment, like she can't believe she just said that. I almost can't believe it myself, but I'm happy to oblige. I stand, and move to the other side of the table, taking the empty seat next to Grace.

"Hi."

"Hi."

"I'm going to kiss you now."

We both lean in, and I swear when our lips touch, it just feels _right_. Like our lips are meant to be friends. Hers are soft and plump, and I can't resist licking the bottom one, and pulling it between my teeth. My hands seem to move on their own, cupping her face as hers slide into my hair.

Tongues have just come into play when we're jarred apart by the voice of our waiter. "Do you need anything else?"

Looking up at him, with eyes I know are glazed over with lust, I long to punch the smirk from his face. "Dessert menu, please."

He looks taken aback, and I'm sure he thought his work with us was done for the night. I won't deny I want to get Grace back to the C&C apartment we're using, but we have a job to do.

"Oh, sure," he says, walking away.

"After dessert, I want your mouth back," she tells me.

"It's all yours."

Grace

The dessert empanadas I had were good, but not as good as the taste of Keir. I'm so cautious with most men, yet I asked him to kiss me. He tasted like tequila, and salsa, and _him._

We behaved through dessert, and the short drive back here, but once we're in the door of the apartment, it's back on. Keir lifts me off my feet as our mouths collide, and then we're on the couch. The stretchy, black dress I chose for dinner rides up my thighs as I straddle him.

I've never believed kisses could be life-altering, or produce fireworks, but Keir's kisses are doing just that to me. I love his mouth, his tongue, and oh God, his teeth. He's everywhere in my mouth, demanding more from me. And then, he's just on my lips, being sweet.

I need more. "Help me take your shirt off," I demand, our lips barely touching as I speak.

I undo a few buttons, and he pulls it over his head, in the way guys do. I sit back for a moment, and take him in. His strong arms, sexy pecs, and those abs I got a glimpse of. I don't know where to start first, but he doesn't give me a chance to decide. Keir pulls me back to his mouth, and I don't complain.

I run my hands over the ridges of all those muscles, scratching my nails over his pecs, and rubbing his abs like my life depends on it—and it just might. He growls into my mouth, making me a little crazier. After a few more minutes, he tugs at the top of my dress, and I help him pull it down.

Now, he's the one pulling back to look. My bra is plain black, because lace would've shown through my dress. It's not sexy, but he seems to like it, and I'm not ashamed about wearing something functional.

"I've been dreaming of your curves."

"Does the reality live up to the fantasy?"

"The reality blows the fantasy out of the fucking water."

To prove it, he leans down, and kisses the swells of flesh above my bra. He really knows how to use that mouth of his, and even without any nipple play, I'm arching into him. He teases me for a few more minutes, but I've had enough, and reach for his belt.

His hands grab my wrists to stop me. "Not tonight, Grace. It's been a long time for me, and I want to take this slow. Okay?"

Wow. "Okay. Um, how long exactly?"

"No one since my ex-wife. Is that a problem?"

"No. It's pressure, but not a problem."

"The pressure's on me, because I'm the one who's probably going to blow in less than a minute. I'm close right now, in fact, and most of our clothes are still on."

"I don't mind helping you along." I really, really don't mind.

"While I appreciate the offer, and know I'm being stupid for declining, I have to. I want more than sex, and I also have more than just myself to think about."

He says all these words, but he's still kissing my lips, my cheeks, my neck, and the tops of my breasts as he says them. He can't stop touching his lips to various parts of my body, and truthfully, I don't want him to. I need some answers, though.

"On the plane, you said you didn't know where you want this to go. I'm okay with no titles, or definitions of what we're doing, but are we going to be exclusive?"

"Hell, yeah. I don't want anyone else, and to be honest, the thought of someone else kissing or touching you is making me feel a little ragey right now."

"I feel the same way."

"So, second date for breakfast?"

"Yes."

He stands up, placing me on my feet, and pulling my dress back up. He looks a little sad at covering me up again, and I can't say I blame him. If he put his shirt back on right now, I might cry.

"One last kiss goodnight before my cold shower?"

"If you let me kiss you somewhere other than your mouth, you wouldn't need that shower," I remind him.

"Patience is a virtue."

"No one's ever called me virtuous."

"I like being your first."

I roll my eyes as I laugh. "Of course, you do."

"Goodnight, Grace."

"Goodnight, Keir."

Our final kiss of the evening is sweet, and almost chaste; just a soft, quick press of lips. I like this man who makes me feel valued, and special. I'm still not completely sure I should, but I do.

# 3

Keir

Breakfast is at another restaurant owned by the same guy, but it's completely different. It's a French bakery theme, and as a breakfast lover, I'm pretty stoked to be here. Having to order different things on the menu does not feel at all like a job. I get a basket of pastries, fruit, Quiche Lorraine, crepes, and three kinds of breakfast potatoes. Grace settles for an omelet and toast, but I'm pretty sure I can entice her into tasting some of my food along with hers.

"You look like a kid on Christmas morning," Grace tells me, with a smile.

"This menu is gold, Gracie. Pure gold."

"Gracie, is it now?"

Oh shit. "Sorry. Is that okay?"

"Yes. Only for you, though, and not when we're in the office."

"Rest assured, I'm not going to share my special name for you with anyone."

"Men," she says, shaking her head, but she's still smiling, so I know it's not a complete insult.

"You can call me whatever you want."

"Keir isn't exactly the easiest name to derive a nickname from."

"I believe in you."

"Hmm. What did your family and friends call you?"

"My mom and dad call me Keir, and my sister calls me different variations of 'asshole' depending on how annoyed she is with me." That earns me a snicker, which reassures me she'll get along great with Ainsley, if they aren't already friends. "My friends call me Keir, K-Man, KM, or Martin."

She looks thoughtful for a moment, and then she smiles. "How about Kei?"

"Because I've unlocked your heart?"

"Keir, it is."

I can't stop myself from leaning over the table to kiss her. "Kei. Please."

"Isn't that supposed to be my line when you finally drop your pants for me?"

"I won't make you beg, unless you want me to."

"We'll see."

Our food arrives, interrupting our flirting, but this time it's not an intrusive interruption. I'm firmly on my side of the table after the short kiss, and our waitress has been prompt and professional since we walked in. If the food's as amazing as it looks and smells, this place could be a total win.

"You realize how ridiculous you look, right?" Grace asks, motioning to the food that's covering both my side of the table, and most of hers, too.

"I'm a growing man."

"Are you now?"

I stop the fork I'm holding, before it makes it to my mouth. The crepe looks good, but the woman across from me is temptation personified. "I'm trying to be honorable over here."

"And I'm trying to send you onto the path of debauchery. Sorry."

If it wasn't for the mischievous glint in her eyes, or the fact that her foot has been creeping up my leg for the last thirty seconds, I might believe she's really sorry. As it is, I'm having trouble remembering why I want to wait to ravish her. Why I shouldn't take her back to the apartment after breakfast, and work up an appetite for lunch?

My phone rings, and now I remember. "It's my boys," I explain before answering. "Hey, Connor."

I know it's him, because it's his turn to talk to me on the phone first. With two kids, it's always about being fair, and making sure they each get equal time, and equal turns.

"Hi, Daddy! Do you miss me?"

"All day, every day."

"I tackled Uncle Zack this morning. He said I did good."

"I bet you did." While Trevor likes to throw, and run, Connor likes to tackle.

"I can't wait to see you, Daddy. I love you."

"Love you too, Con."

He passes the phone to his brother, and now it's the other love of my life on the line. "Daddy, Isa came and helped me with my spelling."

Thank God Ainsley's surrounded by geniuses, since she had to work late, because while Zack is smart, he can't spell for shit. "Good. I was a little worried last night."

"Me too."

"I'm glad you'll be back tonight, even if I'll be sleeping."

"So am I. I love you, Trev."

"Love you too, Daddy."

I put my phone on the table, and look back to Grace. "Sorry about that, but I always take their calls, no matter what."

"You don't have to apologize for being a great dad."

No, I don't, but I'm not sure every woman out there would accept my sons. Honestly, I'm not sure if Grace is going to accept them, which is why I'm taking things slow. The boys and I are a package deal, and I'm really hoping she'll take that deal. If she doesn't—or I even have an inkling she can't handle them—I'll walk away, because I'll have no other choice.

Grace

Is it wrong that I found it sexy to hear Keir talking to his sons on the phone? Maybe, but it so totally was. The way his voice changed, and I could hear the love—it was a major turn-on. Could be because I'm so close to my parents, or just because love in any form is beautiful. Whatever the reason, I liked hearing the short exchange more than I probably should have.

"This food is spectacular, but I'm thinking there's another reason you're being so quiet."

"Just thinking."

"Is it too much for you? My boys and me?"

"What? No. The opposite, actually."

"Really?"

"I think I like you even more after hearing you talk to them on the phone."

"You should see me in person with them."

"I want to. When you're ready for that."

"It's more about _them_ being ready, but I want it to happen."

It should scare me to know two little boys hold the keys to everything, but it doesn't. I don't know what kind of idiot walked away from Keir, but I know his sons are lucky to have him. And, so am I.

We flirt some more during breakfast, and I let him talk me into sharing some of his breakfast buffet. It's utterly ridiculous how much food he ordered, but also completely adorable. The food is great, the service is great, and I have to resist the urge to tell Miles this place is a definite buy. We still have two more places to try today, and I need to give them a chance before making my recommendations. I can choose more than one place, but I want to try them all before making my final decision.

In between the two meals, Keir surprises me with a trip to the Phoenix Zoo. It's got all the usual animals, plus a mini farm. I'll admit to having too much fun petting, and brushing, the goats. They nip at my sundress, but that's just cute, too.

"I was kinda hoping that goat would chew right through your dress," he tells me with a smirk, when I finally tear myself away from the littles.

"Scandalous."

"We both know you're going to debauch me sooner rather than later."

"Play your cards right, and I might let you use your teeth to take it off after lunch."

"Alas, I have something else planned for the time between lunch, and dinner. Raincheck?"

"Raincheck, suncheck, whatever works. And yes, I know that sounds desperate, but you apparently bring out the wanton woman in me."

"I don't remember complaining."

No, he just keeps shutting me down, and I feel bad, because I keep pushing him anyway. It's not a good look, no matter what he says, and yet, I don't feel any shame. I know I shouldn't push him, but I don't feel bad about wanting to find my pleasure with him.

"I need to apologize, because I feel like I'm acting like the high school quarterback, trying to get the cheerleader to put out."

He throws his head back and laughs. "I've been called a lot of things, but never a female cheerleader. FYI...I was the quarterback, Gracie, and I want into your panties as much as you want into my boxer briefs."

I groan, because did I really need him to divulge his underwear preferences? I was pretty sure he was wearing something under those jeans, but I didn't know what. I'm already trying to figure out what color they are, and just how snug he likes to wear them.

"You shouldn't have told me that."

"What?"

"You wear boxer briefs. I didn't know, and now I do," I blurt out.

"Shit. Do you want to torture me with what you wear?"

"Today? Because it varies."

His eyes light up, and he licks his lips. "Oh man, I'm going to get a surprise every time?"

"Yes."

He pulls me into his arms, and hugs me. We're in a family area of the zoo, so he just hugs me, although there's nothing _just_ about it. Keir's arms offer a comfort like I've never known before, even from my loving parents. I feel vulnerable, and powerful at the same time, as his heart beats with mine.

"We have time for a couple more animals, if you want."

"Can we see the lemurs? The memes of them are always so cute."

"Let's go."

We hold hands as we walk to the exhibit. The lemurs are even cuter in person, and I fall in love with them at first sight. Before leaving the zoo, Keir leads me into the main store, and buys me a stuffed one, while I help him pick out gifts for the boys. It's probably my best date ever, and the day isn't even over yet.

# 4

Keir

Lunch is at a Japanese restaurant, and it's nothing to write home about. Both the service and the food are good, just not great. I'm not sure the guy who owns all these places should've decided to try every kind of cuisine there is, instead of sticking to one, but that's not my problem.

Being with Grace makes it better than it would've been without her, and I find I'm liking her more every minute we spend together. I drive us back to the apartment after lunch, so we can change for dinner before the afternoon adventure I planned for us.

She puts on a green, off-the-shoulder minidress with a gold pattern all over it. The top curves up, so there's no cleavage, but she's still sexy, because she's _her_. She's let her brown hair go natural, with curls bouncing over her shoulders, and down her back. Being in the sun earlier has made the red highlights in her hair more prominent, and I can't help but smile at the image in front of me.

"I know, I know...I look like the Little Mermaid."

"Maybe just a little."

"I like green."

"I like you in green."

"You're not looking so bad yourself."

I've changed into charcoal grey pants, and a black button down. No tie, because I prefer not to wear one when I can get away with it, and the restaurant for tonight isn't quite formal enough to require it.

"Thanks. Are you ready for the next part of our date day?" I ask, leading us down to the rental car.

"Yes, because I don't know how you think you're going to outdo the goats and lemurs."

"Is that even possible?"

"Probably not."

"I'm hoping to wow you in another way."

"Maybe I shouldn't tell you this, but I'm good with wherever you want to go. I like spending time with you."

"Even without the sex?"

"Yes," she says, bowing her head.

I immediately feel like an ass, because she told me she feels like she's pressuring me, and I haven't assured her quite enough that it's really not the case. I've never been one to hold back, and in fact, before I got married, I was a pretty promiscuous guy. Then, there was Jacky. We had sex after meeting at a kegger in college. Not even a first date. So, it's not about wanting to wait for moral reasons; I just have this weird urge with Grace. I simply suck at explaining it properly to her.

I start the car, and turn to look at her. "Gracie, I have never waited with another woman. Ever. I don't know why it's so important for me to wait with you, but it just feels like it is. You being hurt, or embarrassed, because you want me, is killing me."

"I used to be shy. I didn't ask for what I wanted. At home, I did, because I was comfortable with my parents, but only there. Then, when I graduated, and got my first job, I tried. I stood up for myself, and I was shot down, and called a pushy woman."

"Whoever said that was a moron."

"It was a lot of men, for a lot of years. I let them beat me down, until one day, I decided I was tired of hiding myself, and I spoke up. Luckily, the right person heard me roar, and actually listened."

"Well, I consider myself a feminist, and I love that you're telling me what you want."

"Really?"

"Yes, and you're working for the best company you could possibly work for, because I know Miles and Matt are all about supporting women."

"Oh, I know. When I saw the job posting, I decided to take a chance on applying, but I didn't think I'd get it."

"Miles and you seem close."

"We just clicked during my interview, and his wife has become a good friend as well."

"Alex is great."

"You've met her?"

I should tell her now about Ainsley being my sister, but while she has her issues with being taken seriously as a woman, I have mine about my kid sister getting me this job. So, I tell a half-truth. "I've done some stuff with the Foundation in the past."

"The women who work there are beautiful."

"Yes, they are."

"You weren't interested in any of them?"

"Not really an option since most of them are married."

"So, yes."

"I'm not going to lie and say I was never attracted to any of them."

"Sometimes, the truth sucks, but it's better than lying."

Which I'm doing, and I know I shouldn't. I could argue, I'm just not supplying all the info, but it's lying by omission, and I know it. Not knowing who my sister is won't hurt Grace, but I need to tell her sooner, rather than later. Just not now.

"It is."

We drive the rest of the way to our destination in silence, simply enjoying each other's company. When I pull into the parking lot, Grace looks at me in surprise.

"The art museum?"

"Unless you totally hate the idea."

"I love museums."

"There's a cool exhibit I want to see with you," I tell her as I open her car door, and help her out.

"I really appreciate you thinking things out, and planning stuff for us to do. This day has been one of my best ever."

I pull her to me, and kiss her. "Mine too."

Grace

The exhibit Keir got us tickets to has a timed entry, so we have time to explore the permanent collections first. I love the fashion area, and the Impressionists, while he's engrossed in the Modern Art collection. It's fun to walk through the different rooms, holding hands and kissing.

When it's time for us to enter our exhibit, I'm completely blown away. I wasn't expecting a room full of mirrors. It's called an Infinity Room, and when the lights go off, it's like we're in space. Keir has his phone ready, and we take selfies, and straight on photos. Smiling, kissing, cuddling...whatever we can think of to commemorate this experience.

It's over in minutes, the time flying because, yeah, we're having fun. There's a little time to go through the gift shop, and despite my protests, Keir buys me a necklace I fall in love with. I could buy it myself, and it's pricey, but he insists. Honestly, I love that he's buying it for me, even though I can't wear it tonight.

Our final restaurant on this trip is another Mexican restaurant, owned by the same guy whose other places we've been sampling. It looks identical to the one we were at last night, but the service is a thousand times better. This time, Keir slides right into the booth next to me, and we share our burritos, empanadas, nachos, and enchiladas with each other. The food here is as great as the service, putting us both in a good mood.

This place also offers a live salsa band, and we join the couples on the dance floor after dinner. It's fun, but we can't stay late, as Keir promised to be home tonight. His sister is dropping his sons at his house, and waiting there for him. It's not fair to any of them if we come back too late.

Despite all of that, we make out against my car for several minutes back at the airport in Vegas. "You need to go," I tell him, deciding to be the sane one for a moment.

"I know. Have lunch with me tomorrow?"

"As platonic co-workers, yes."

"I'm going to find a way to kiss you."

"Maybe one kiss in my office, with the door closed."

"Maybe two."

"Go see your boys."

He gives me one more lingering kiss. "Sweet dreams, Gracie."

"You too, Kei."

I don't float home on clouds of love, but I'm happy. Happier than I've been in a very long time, if I'm being honest with myself. It's almost too good to be true, but I'm living it, so I know it's real.

I call my mom when I get home, because I promised to tell her I arrived safely back in my city, because I need to talk to someone about Keir. She answers on the first ring, even though Manhattan is three hours ahead of Vegas, telling me she's waited up for my call.

"Grace, my love, how was your trip?"

"Really great. Better than great."

She's quiet for a moment, and I know it's because, while I enjoy my job, I don't usually gush about it. "Why was this trip different?"

"Keir."

"I'm guessing you got past the water issue?"

"Pretty far past it."

"I don't need details."

"There aren't many to give in that regard."

"Oh?"

"I thought you didn't want to know," I say, with a laugh.

"I don't want details, but I _am_ interested in why things didn't progress to the bedroom if they were going so well."

"He wants to wait."

"That's...romantic."

"And frustrating, but yes, it's sweet. I'm not used to sweet, Mom, and I felt like I was pressuring him because I wanted to take things further. He insists I'm not, and he wants me too, but I don't know."

"Tell me about the last two days," she insists.

So, I do. I tell her about the restaurants, the kisses, the places he took me to today, and the dancing. I gloss over the making out, but I don't keep his parenting situation from her.

"He has two boys, and they are his world."

"As they should be."

"Agreed, and I'm strangely not bothered by it. I've always wanted to be first in everything, but when it comes to Keir's kids, I can see myself being happy to come in second, or I guess, third."

"It sounds like you're both being smart about what's happening."

"I think so."

"You sound happy, and that's all I care about."

"Thanks, Mom. Now, you need to go to sleep. Tell Dad I love him."

"Not me?"

I roll my eyes, even though she can't see me. "You know I love you."

"I do. Love you too, my sweet girl."

# 5

Keir

I see Grace on and off all morning, but not the way I want to. There's no chance to take her into her office for that kiss, because we're both swamped. I have reports on the restaurants to write, and specs on the hotel I'm photographing, to go over. I'm really looking forward to lunch with my woman, and when I have a chance to leave a little early and get us a good table with a view in the cafeteria, I do.

I'm playing on my phone while I wait, when my sister decides to join me. I have a momentary feeling of panic, but ultimately decide it's a good thing. I need to let Grace know about her, and if my hand is being forced, so be it.

"Hey, Ainsley, shouldn't you be over there with your posse?" I ask, waving at her friends.

"Can't I eat with my brother?"

"Not when I have a date."

"Seriously?"

"Would I really joke about it?'"

"God, I hope not. Who is it?"

"You'll see when she gets here, and you're not going to act weird about it."

"Why would I act weird?"

"Because you're my baby sister, and you think you need to make a big deal out of my life."

"News flash...my brother _is_ a big deal."

I reach forward and cup her cheek in my hand, kissing her on the cheek. I'm about to thank her for all she's done for me, but we're interrupted, in the worst possible way.

"Isn't this cozy?" Grace looks angry, and hurt, and I'm even more sorry I didn't tell her about Ainsley before now.

"Grace, I can explain."

"Explain how you've been making out with me, but now you're after another a woman? A _married_ woman, whose husband can pound you into dust."

"Well, dust is a little much, but really, it's not what it looks like."

"Save it, because now I know why you wanted to wait to have sex."

"Wow, you were holding out on _her_?" my sister asks, helping no one.

"Shut it, Ainsley. In fact, why don't you go sit with your friends so I can talk to Grace."

"Don't bother; I have nothing to say to you except you better be ready for our meeting in an hour."

"Come on, Grace, you owe me the chance to at least sit down and talk about this."

"I owe you? You didn't really say that to me."

"He did. I heard it."

" _Ainsley."_

_" Keir."_

"Go the fuck away," I tell her, turning to look her in the eyes, so she knows I'm serious.

When I turn back to Grace, she's gone. I want to run after her, but the last thing I need to do is cause a scene, and make her even angrier than she already is at me. I already knew I should've told her, and now I've lost her before I really had her. Fucking perfect.

"Grace? Wow. I didn't know you had it in you."

"As you can see, I don't."

"It's just a misunderstanding. I am a little perplexed to know you didn't mention me to her."

"I was trying to impress her. Telling her my sister got me this job isn't very impressive."

"Men."

"Women aren't always so stellar, either."

"I can go talk to her."

I know she means well, but what she said still pisses me off. "I've been taking care of myself for a lot of years, you know."

"I didn't say you couldn't."

"Really? Because you tried to set me up with Harlow, got me an interview here, and now you're offering to find Grace to set her straight about what just went down."

She shakes her head, and blows out a deep breath. "You don't get it. At all."

"Enlighten me."

"You have always been there for me, Keir. Always. More than even Mom and Dad have been there for me. You beat up the boys who were mean to me as a kid, taught me how to punch the guys who messed with me as a teen, and encouraged me when I was allowed to tell you about what I really do. You did all of it without making me feel like I was 'less' than you, or weak for needing help, or a shoulder to cry on. Now, I'm trying to do a little of the same for you."

"I know. I do. I just feel like I've lost control of everything in my life."

"You haven't. That bitch left you and the boys, but you're still my awesome brother, a wonderful father, and one of the best men I've ever met."

"Thanks, and I'm sorry things went down like this with Grace."

She shrugs. "No biggie since she doesn't really like any of us from the Society."

"She knows?"

"No. Just that's we work for the Foundation, and get a lot of perks no one else does. She complained to Matt, about how we seem to do what we want, while spending C&C money, and not making any. I guess she stumbled across some accounting form by accident, and said we should be held more accountable for what we spend. Granted, it was for over a million dollars, but we saved a few hundred people on that mission. Not that Matt could tell her that."

"This just keeps getting better, and better."

"She's not the first to complain, and I'm sure she won't be the last. All everyone sees is twenty women who seem to come and go as they please, and hang out in their offices, giving away the money everyone works hard to make for C&C. Matt basically told her there was no price on helping people—since she knows we do that as the Foundation, and she let it go."

"I get it, but if Grace isn't cool with you, there's no reason for me to try to make things right with her. You're family."

"You listen to me, big brother. You are not going to blow this with her. Grace is the first woman you've initiated anything with since your divorce, and I will jump through any hoop she needs me to so we can be friends. She's a badass, and I admire the hell out of her, because I ran her background check, and I know the shit she went through at other companies. And once she gets to know me, there's no way she won't love me."

"No, there isn't."

"See, it's all good as long as you explain this all to her, and tell her you're sorry for being an ass."

"She's worth it," I say, more for myself than my sister, but I know it's true. I'll fix this...somehow.

Grace

I go straight from the cafeteria to Miles office. I'm hungry, and hurt, but I need to confess before I lock myself in my office to eat and cry.

"Shouldn't you be at lunch?" he asks, when Susan waves me in.

"Yes, but I screwed up, and I need to tell you about it."

"Okay. Sit down, and tell me what's going on."

"I crossed a line, made a fool of myself, and I don't know how it's going to affect things."

"Keir?"

"Yeah."

"Spill."

I tell him what I told my mom, and add what happened today. His mouth stays in a smirk, until the last part, when he bursts out laughing. To say I'm offended is an understatement.

"I didn't expect this from you," I tell him, trying to hold back tears of embarrassment.

"I'm not laughing at you, Grace," he says, coming around the desk, and moving the other chair to right next to me. He takes my hands in his, and smiles. "This situation is pretty crazy."

"Right? And how do I compete with Ainsley Taylor? I heard she's an actual genius. All of those women are beyond normal."

"Ainsley is happily married to Zack, and she wouldn't cheat on him with anyone, least of all Keir."

"What's wrong with Keir? He's good enough for her."

"Yes, but he's not her type."

"Whatever. It doesn't matter, because she's obviously _his_ type."

"There is so much I could say right now, but I think you need to hear it from Keir."

"I don't want to talk to him."

"Since you're working together, you'll have to talk to him."

"I know. I knew better. I _know_ better than getting involved with someone at work."

"It's not the end of the world, Grace. All that matters is how you deal with the aftermath, good or bad."

"I can be professional with him."

"I have no doubt, but is that really all you want?"

"I want a guy who only wants me."

"As you should."

"We have the meeting with Keir in less than an hour. I should probably get my stuff together."

"And eat."

"I can't go back into the cafeteria right now."

"Have something sent up here."

"I'm allowed to do that?"

"Yes. Read the benefits section of the intranet, G."

"I know about my medical, dental, vision, and time off."

"There is so much more, and Matt should've pointed it all out to you when you talked to him about the Foundation."

My cheeks turn red, because that's not a highlight of my time here. "Alex still talks to me."

"I wasn't calling you out."

"I was maybe calling myself out," I grumble.

"You'd fit right in with the Foundation women."

"They probably all hate me."

"It's on you to change their perception."

"I know."

"Alex and I want to spend a quiet day at home on Sunday, so you're going to be my representative in the Corrigan box for the Legends game."

"What? No."

"Yes. Take the opportunity to get to know whoever's there, and have fun."

"Do I have to dress up?"

"Nope. Jeans and a t-shirt or jersey are the norm."

"I'm tempted to wear a Zack Taylor jersey, but I suppose I shouldn't."

"You should. Please. Please wear one."

"You're so weird sometimes. I'm going to my office to learn about ordering food, and get my stuff together."

"If you'd assign yourself an assistant, they could order for you."

"Baby steps."

"Go."

I didn't think I'd be smiling when I walked out of the office, but I am. When I go back, I have to see Keir, so it's going to be a lot harder. I can do this, though. I'm strong, and resilient. Maybe a little heartbroken too, but it could be worse...at least I didn't fall all the way in love with him yet.

# 6

Keir

"You're going to the game on Sunday, aren't you?" Miles asks me, after our meeting, where Grace only spoke to me when necessary, and ran out of his office as soon as she could.

"Yep."

"I told Grace she needs to represent me in our box."

"And she agreed?"

"She feels bad about some stuff that went down between her and the Society."

"Ainsley told me about the complaint."

"And Grace told me you're trying to hook up with your sister."

"Dude, don't go there. I just threw up a little in my mouth."

"I didn't know your family connection was a secret."

"It's not, but at the same time, it is. I was embarrassed to have her get me this job, but she put me in my place."

"Good. Saves me the trouble."

"Thanks."

"Anyway, Grace will be there, so she'll be forced to learn about Ainsley being your sister."

"I owe you."

"Just keep doing an awesome job, and we'll call it even."

"Deal."

I go back to my office, and work on more plans for the photo shoot happening soon, incorporating the ideas Miles and Grace gave me. I keep my door open, so I can see if she walks by, because I still want to try and talk to her before Sunday. She doesn't walk by even once in the next four hours, telling me she's actively avoiding me. I'm not surprised, but I _am_ disappointed.

I shut down my office, and make my way to the elevator. Somehow, luck is with me, and Grace is the only one waiting with me. I try again to explain things to her.

"I wasn't hitting on Ainsley."

"Not my business."

"Since we're starting a relationship, it most definitely _is_ your business."

"Were. We _were_ starting a relationship."

"Why is it so hard for you to just listen to me?"

"Because I like you too much."

"That makes sense."

"It does to me," she says, stepping into the elevator when the doors open.

We're not alone anymore, and I promised to keep things professional around others, so I drop it. She won't be able to escape me on Sunday when I make a point of calling Ainsley my sister, so I'll just have to let it go for now. It's not what I want, but it's what I've got.

I get off before her, because I'm going to the daycare floor to pick up the boys. Thoughts of them bring a smile to my face, and when Connor runs for me as I enter, I feel settled. Trevor hangs back, trying to look cool in front of the other kids his age, but he smiles, letting me know he's happy to see me.

"Can we have burgers for dinner?" Connor asks.

"If that's what you want," I tell him. It's his turn to pick tonight.

"It's what I want."

We all get settled into the car, and I drive us to Downtown Summerlin, and Shake Shack. The burgers are good, and the shakes are better. All I care about is that we're together. After dinner, we walk around a little, and get pretzels, before walking back to the car. It's not a school night, but Trevor wants to get his homework done early so he can have fun all weekend without worrying, and Connor is falling asleep standing up, despite his afternoon nap.

Our rental is a short drive from the outdoor mall, making it a quick trip home. I help Connor get ready for bed, while Trevor starts on his homework. Once his brother's down, I set up my work next to his.

"I like it here," he tells me, looking down at his paper.

"Me too."

"Is it bad that I don't miss Mom all the time?"

I look up at him, startled by his admission. "You have the right to feel however you feel."

"I love her, and I miss her sometimes. Just not always."

"That's okay."

"Do you think she misses us?"

Nope. "I don't know, Trev. I miss you when you're not around."

"I know. You're the best dad."

"It's easy to be great when you have amazing kids."

"You're being corny again."

"Yeah, yeah. Finish your homework."

Grace

It's game day, and I decide to forgo the Taylor jersey for a Wonder Woman t-shirt. She's the better choice, because I really do want to make amends with the Foundation women. And because she's the best superhero there is.

My name is on the list at the VIP gate, and I'm escorted up to the Corrigan box by a very nice woman. I thank her, and walk in, making all conversation in the room come to a halt. Well, not all, since there are two adorable boys running around the room.

"Hi everyone. It's good to see all of you."

"Is it?" Matisse asks me. Her boyfriend, the official doctor for the Foundation, Kendrick, gives her a nudge, but she just smirks at me.

"Yes. I mean, I wanted to apologize for complaining about you. I don't really understand what all of you do, but that doesn't mean it isn't important work. I _know_ it's important, because you help people. So, I'm sorry."

"Apology accepted," Reina says to me with a smile. "Come in, and eat, drink, and be merry."

"Thanks."

I take her up on the offer of food, loading a plate from the buffet with mini hot dogs, sliders, and fries. There's also a seafood buffet, and a carving station with potatoes and mac and cheese, and I'll head over for some of that later. It can never be said that the Corrigans skimp on their entertaining budget.

I sit down next to Sierra Taylor, and her boyfriend, Joel Cruz. Sierra is Zack's sister, and Joel is a baseball star. They seem like a safe choice.

"Auntie Si, when is Uncle Zack going to start?" the younger boy asks her.

"Soon, Con."

"K."

"He's your nephew?" I ask.

"They're actually Zack and Ainsley's nephews, but they've claimed us too. We're totally not complaining," Joel explains.

"They seem great. Full of energy, but with manners."

"Exactly."

It's getting closer to game time when I finish my plate, and I stand to place it on the tray in the corner. As I'm walking back, the door opens to a beautiful woman, trailed by Xavier James, with his son in his arms. The two little boys in the room squeal, and run to the woman. She tries to disentangle herself, but they hold on tight.

"Mommy," the littlest boy cries.

"I can't believe you're here," the older one tells her.

"Get off me!" she yells, pulling at them as they start to cry.

"The hell?" Xavier asks, stepping away from her.

"I'm guessing she didn't tell you she's me ex-sister-in-law."

Ainsley looks ready to commit murder, and so does Sierra as she comes to stand next to her. I don't even know the boys that well, but I'm not feeling too calm myself.

"Why don't we just go somewhere and play with your little boy?" the woman asks, batting her lashes at Xavier.

He looks disgusted right now, which isn't a big surprise. I have lunch with his assistant, Seriyah, sometimes, and although they butt heads all the time, she says he's ultimately a good guy, and dotes on his little boy. I can't imagine he would've brought this woman here if he'd known she would treat her kids this way.

"Did you just say we should play with _my_ son, while you're pointedly ignoring yours? Because, that is beyond my comprehension."

"I gave up my rights to them," she says, still trying to pull away from the boys.

"You've got to be kidding me!" Xavier looks like he wants to kill the woman now, and I don't blame him.

"She's not," Keir tells him, walking into the room.

"Daddy, look! Mommy's here!" the little one tells him, and I can tell he's barely holding it together.

What? If he's their dad, then Ainsley's his sister. Oh my God. No wonder Miles was amused. They were all laughing at me. I have to get out of here as soon as I can, because I'm even more humiliated now.

"I see that, Con. Why don't you go hang out with your Auntie A for a minute, okay? You too, Trev."

The older boy looks resigned, while his brother just looks sad. Ainsley takes both their hands, and leads them to the other side of the room.

"Alone, Keir? Still miss me too much to move on?" the bitch asks him.

"I was over you the moment you insisted on giving up your rights to our children."

"If you'd been a better man, I wouldn't have left."

"Get. Out."

It's Xavier who says the words, and as fierce as he looks right now, I wouldn't fight with him. This...woman...doesn't seem to get it, though. She's obviously seeing dollar signs, and nothing more.

"This has nothing to do with us, X."

"Us? There is no us. You pursued me, and I agreed to bring you to this game, so you'd finally leave me alone. Now, I'm telling you to leave."

"Why? Who cares about Keir? He can't even get a date!"

Harlow is in her face immediately. "He had a date with me."

My day keeps getting better and better. I've been laughed at behind my back, and now I find out Keir had a date with one of the hottest Foundation women. I know today's worse for him and his boys, but I need just a moment for my own pity party.

"Whatever."

Reina steps forward now. "I'm going to give you one more chance to leave on your own, before I have you physically removed."

This time, she gets the message they've all been trying to give her. I don't know if it's the look in Reina's eyes, the glares from everyone surrounding her, or Xavier's look of disgust, but she gets it. Without another word, she stomps out the door, leaving Keir to deal with the fallout.

The boys come running back over, with Ainsley on their heels. They see their mother gone, and lose it. Keir pulls the older one into his arms, but the younger boy isn't having it. He runs around, dodging Ainsley, Sierra, and the other women, before coming to a stop in front of me.

"Pretty," he says, holding his arms out to me.

I have no choice in this moment. For some reason, the little boy wants me, and even though I'm not happy with his dad, I bend down and pick him up into my arms. He buries his head in my neck, sobbing quietly now, and my heart melts.

# 7

Keir

I have Trevor next to me on the couch as we watch Zack and his team play. He's calmed down a little, but I know Jacky did damage I'll be dealing with for at least a week, if not longer. It's Connor who has me intrigued. He's still in Grace's arms an hour after he reached for her, but they're on the other side of the couch from us now, instead of standing up.

He's always been a friendly kid, but climbing into a stranger's arms is different than saying hi to a new kid at daycare. And she's blowing my mind by letting him attach himself to her like this. There's no way her arms aren't getting tired, yet she keeps rubbing his back, and whispering to him, while wiping away his tears.

"Pretty, I'm hungry. Can I have ice cream?" he asks, speaking for the first time since this all went down.

"That's up to your daddy."

"Yes, you can have ice cream, but you should call Grace by her name."

"I don't mind a handsome young man calling me pretty," she says, smiling down at him.

Of course, she doesn't. If I referred to her that way, I'd get my ass handed to me, but my kid can say it all he wants. And yes, I'm officially jealous of my four-year-old.

"I'm Connor," he tells her, holding out his little hand. "You can call me Con, if you want."

"It's wonderful to meet you, Con."

"Does your mommy love you?"

Oh, God. Now, I'm not jealous, I'm heartbroken for my kids. Again.

"Yes, she does."

"I want my Mommy to love me."

"I know. Your daddy, and brother, and everyone in this room loves you, though. They're the smart ones, because they know you and your brother are awesome."

Holy hell, this woman just keeps getting better and better. I already thought she was spectacular, but this right here makes me want to fight even harder to get a second chance.

"Let's go get that ice cream," I say, because I am so close to losing it right now.

He stands up, and waits for me to join him. Trevor walks over to Grace, and introduces himself, before walking with us over to the dessert buffet. My kids are the literal best.

"Hey, man, I am so sorry," Xavier says, joining us at the table.

The boys are too busy looking at the choices to pay attention, which I think he noticed. His son isn't with him right now, either.

"You didn't know."

"No. I wouldn't have brought her."

"She likes attention, and money. This was a perfect storm for her."

"I wasn't interested in her before, and I'm sure as hell not now. I cannot believe how she was with your boys, though."

"We're too boring for her, I'm afraid. You're glamourous."

"Fuck that. Us dads need to stick together."

"Thanks for that."

"We should hang sometime. Alone, and with the boys."

"Definitely. Speaking of them, I need to check on what they're piling on their plates."

"Gotcha. Talk to you soon."

I get the boys sorted, and Connor insists on bringing something to Grace, so I help him pick out what I think she'll like. When we get back to the couch, Connor climbs up next to Grace, and Trevor sits closer to them, so I do too. Thanks, kid.

"I brought you dessert. Daddy said you like brownies."

"He's right. Thanks," she tells him taking a bite.

"I made your shirt wet."

I look over, and notice the wet spots, from where he was crying on her. I'm glad she's wearing blue, and not white, or I'd feel even worse.

"It'll dry."

"Auntie A likes Wonder Woman too."

"That's because your aunt is super smart, and knows Wonder Woman is the best superhero."

"Better than Iron Man?"

"Yep."

"Daddy, can boys have a Wonder Woman birthday party?" he asks, looking at me expectantly.

"If that's what the boy wants."

"I want that. Pretty, will you come if I have a Wonder Woman party? I'm going to be five!"

"I'd come even if it wasn't Wonder Woman, and if it was okay with your daddy."

"Daddy, please!"

"Grace is always welcome to spend time with us," I tell him, meeting her eyes so she knows I mean it.

"I'll be there. Just tell me where and when."

"Daddy will give you an invitation. You can come to Auntie A's house with us after the game, too."

"I'm not sure she wants extra people coming to her house, Con," she tells him, and I can't help but smirk, because I know what's coming.

"Auntie A!" he yells.

She comes right over, even though Zack's running down the field. "What's up?"

"Can Pretty come to your house after the game?"

"I'm assuming that's you, Grace."

"Yes."

"We'd love to have you join us."

"Really?"

"Yes, really. Once you get to know me, you'll realize I don't say things I don't mean."

"I don't know that I'll be getting to know you so well, but since Connor wants me to be there, I'll go."

"Just like that?"

"Yes."

"We're going to be friends, Grace. Whether you think so now or not, it's going to happen."

"We'll see."

"Yes, we will."

Ainsley winks at me, before going back to her spot at the window. My sister is smart, crazy, and simply the best.

"Grace, can you be my friend too?" Trevor asks her, and I almost stop breathing as we both wait for her answer.

"Of course."

"What about daddy?" Connor asks.

"Your daddy and I have to have a talk before I decide if we can be friends."

"He's nice," Trevor tells her. "He doesn't know how to cook, but he can do laundry and math." This kid's getting extra dessert later.

"Good to know."

We all watch the rest of the game, yelling when Zack scores. The Legends win, which will make the party at my sister's house extra fun. I just need to figure out a way to get Grace alone, so I can talk...and explain.

Grace

I cannot believe I agreed to this. No, that's not true; I would've done anything to make things better for Connor and Trevor. I can handle being around people who laughed at me if it means they might smile a little. After what their mother did to them, it's the least I can do.

Since everyone's arriving at the same time, I don't have to wait to be let in. Harlow smiles at me as she holds the door, and I force myself to smile back. Keir and I hadn't even met when they went on their date, so it's not fair for me to be rude to her. No matter how much I want to be. Petty, party of one, over here.

"Pretty!" Connor yells, running up to me and wrapping his arms around my legs.

"Let's let Grace walk into the house, Con," Keir tells him, shaking his head.

"It's fine."

"Do you want to go sit outside with us?" Trevor asks.

"Actually, I need to borrow Grace for a few minutes. I'll send her out to you when we're done talking," Ainsley tells him.

"Do I have a choice?" I ask.

"Yes."

I could tell her no, but this talk is going to have to happen sometime, and it might as well be now. I motion for her to lead the way, and trail her down a hallway, and into a totally cool office. It's a mix of sports, and computers, unlike anything I've ever seen before.

"Wow."

"Chole outdid herself."

"I love that woman."

"Ditto."

I sit down in a chair, and wait for her to speak. She seems to be waiting for me to do the same, but this is her show, and she's going to have to lead it.

"You can yell at me if you want."

"I don't want to yell."

"What do you want?"

I have to take a moment to gather my thoughts, because I don't want to cry. "Why would you laugh at me like that?"

She looks taken aback. "I didn't laugh at you! I was amused by the situation, and I laughed at Keir, but not you."

"Oh."

"Listen, Grace, I love my brother more than I can ever express to you or anyone else. He went through hell with his bitch of an ex, and I would do anything to see him happy again. I tried to set him up with Harlow, and when that didn't work, I wanted to keep trying. He shot me down, and told me he was happy just hanging with the boys every night. My nephews are great, but I knew he was lying. Maybe I should've pushed harder, but I'm glad now that I didn't, because he found his smile again on his own. With you."

"I don't know about that," I tell her, because I'm still lying to myself about how strong our connection was.

"I do. Before you walked over, he told me he had a date, and he was smiling. A genuine smile that lit up his whole face. He likes you a lot."

"I like him a lot too. I just don't understand why he didn't tell me you were his sister. It seems so small, but it feels so big."

"I know what he told me, but he needs to explain it to you himself."

"That's what Miles said, the bastard. He knew from the moment I said your name, and he just played me. I mean, he even told me I should wear Zack's jersey today."

"Oh my God, Zack would've died. Hell, I would've died. And our friends would've been cheering for you."

"They all know?" I ask, feeling embarrassed again.

"Yeah, but they're all on Team Grace."

"Even before I apologized for complaining about all of you?"

"Yep. We get it, you know. It seems like we have all these perks no else gets to have, and an unlimited budget, but we really do earn everything we have."

"I believe you. If I'm being honest, I might have been a little jealous, because I felt like I was working harder than the men, and here were a bunch of women just breezing in and out like the queens of the building."

"Reina's name means queen, but none of us are like that unless we're provoked. Our job is to help people."

"I know, and I just feel stupid now for complaining. Not only because I have no doubt you do so much good, but also because Miles told me I have some of the perks. I never read past the health and vacation benefits online to see it all."

"Oh wow, I can totally show you all the fun you can have as an employee of C&C. Matt is really the best CEO in the world, and not just because of his business savvy."

"I'd like that, thanks."

"You're welcome. Now, what are you going to do about my brother?"

"I don't know. I'm attending a Wonder Woman birthday party for his son, so we're going to have to talk sometime."

"Connor wants a Wonder Woman party? Seriously?"

"Yeah. He saw my shirt and said you liked her too, so he asked for it."

"We are going to rock this. My friends, and you too, of course."

"I don't want to intrude, especially since things are up in the air with Keir."

She waves a hand at me, like it's nothing. "Please. Keir's world revolves around those boys, and they are both half in love with you already. Whatever they want, he'll do. As for planning, this is a perfect way for you to get to know us."

"If you're sure, I'd love to help."

"I'm sure."

"Okay."

"I'll check everyone's schedules, and plan a meeting for the party, and let you know. We can also plan a time for me to give you the rundown on everything else."

"I really appreciate this, Ainsley."

"No biggie. We should probably get back, though, because Keir might think we killed each

other."

# 8

Keir

Ainsley and Grace come back with no visible wounds, and smiles on their faces, so I think they're good. I don't know how soon I can get there with Grace, but I'm planning to make it happen sooner, rather than later. Not surprisingly, Connor runs for her as soon as he sees her, practically knocking her over when he slams into her legs.

"You're back!"

"Connor Martin, did you really think I'd steal your new friend away from you?"

He nods. "Uh-huh, Auntie A. She likes Wonder Woman."

"I know. I heard you're changing your party."

"Yep! Are you happy?"

"So happy. Grace is going to help me plan it."

"If it's okay with your daddy," Grace says, looking at me for confirmation.

"Yes, please."

"I'm going to have the best birthday ever!"

"I know! I've got to go kiss my husband, but come see me later for a kiss goodbye."

"K."

She kisses him, and Trevor, and hugs Grace. I get a punch in the arm, which hurts more than I'm willing to admit.

"Let's eat, Pretty."

"We just ate a few hours ago."

"I'm a growing boy."

"Yes. I suppose you are."

He takes one of her hands, and she holds the other one out to Trevor. Once they're all together, with me walking behind them, we head outside to load up our plates. Grace talks to me when she has to, but it's all about my boys for most of dinner, and I love every minute of it. Sitting back, and watching them interact is like watching what a family should look like. I know I need to put a halt to thoughts like that, because we're nowhere near that place, but it's true. She fits perfectly with us.

"Thank you," I tell her when Connor and Trevor go to the bathroom, giving us a few minutes alone.

"Your boys are wonderful."

"They are."

"After meeting your ex, I know it's all because of you."

"I appreciate you saying that."

"It's the truth."

"I'm sorry for not telling you about Ainsley."

"Not today, okay? We don't have time to talk about it now, and I don't want to rush through something that's important to me."

"It's important to me, too. _You're_ important."

"We'll talk."

"When?"

"Keir."

"I don't want you blowing this off, and never giving me another chance. I was stupid, but I don't think what I did is so bad I don't deserve the chance to explain myself."

He's right. In the grand scheme of life, what he did wasn't horrible. Not great, but not worth ending something that was starting out so good, either. "Are you free tomorrow evening?"

"I can ask Ainsley or Sierra to watch the boys."

"Why are they watching us?" Trevor asks, as Connor once again climbs onto Grace's lap.

"Grace and I need to have a talk about some things."

"She can come over, and we'll play upstairs."

"Yeah! Pretty, come over to our house! I can show you my room," Connor tells her, looking at her with his patented puppy dog eyes.

"We can order dinner. We're good at ordering," Trevor adds.

Her face goes from freaked out to smiling. "Oh, no. If I'm coming over for dinner, we're cooking."

"We don't know how."

"I'll teach you."

"You don't have to cook for us," I protest, because I'm already at a disadvantage right now.

"These boys need to learn how to fend for themselves, and impress a woman when they get older."

"Are you saying I can't impress a woman just because I can't cook?"

"It does take a few points off the hotness meter," I say, messing with him, because honestly, he couldn't get any hotter. Today, he's in a loose Legends t-shirt, and faded jeans with Chucks on his feet. Hot.

"We'll see about that, Gracie."

"Yes we will, Kei."

The rest of the afternoon is all about fun. I dance with the boys, while Keir watches us. He lifts his bottle of beer to his lips every once in a while, when our eyes meet, and his eyes are blazing hot. I mentally curse myself for wanting him so badly, but at least I'm calling the shots now.

It's another great day, which is becoming a theme with Keir, and I know tomorrow is going to rank pretty high, too. I'm saying goodbye to them when Zack comes over.

"I really wish you'd worn my jersey, Grace," he says, holding out his hand to me. I've seen him around before, but we've never officially met.

"Maybe next time. If I'm invited again, that is."

"You're invited, Pretty," Connor tells me.

"Pretty? Kid's got some balls on him," he says with a laugh.

"He _is_ a Martin," Keir reminds him with a smirk.

Too much testosterone going on here. "He's an adorable little sweetheart, is what he is. Before either one of you gets any ideas, know I'd punch you in your junk if you tried anything like it."

"I'll remember to wear a cup around you, Grace," Zack assures me, before turning back to Keir with a wink. "The fiery ones are the best."

"Ugh. She's my sister, man. I shouldn't have to keep reminding you of that."

Zack just laughs, and walks away. I like him.

"Everyone does," Keir grumbles, and I realize I said that out loud.

"Including you, so stop acting like you're jealous."

"Jealous? I'm not jealous of Zack, and his football stardom."

And now I'm embarrassed again. Time to make my getaway.

"I'll see you tomorrow."

"Kiss, Pretty?"

I lean over, and kiss him on the cheek, doing the same with Trevor. Ignoring Keir, I make my way to the door. It's not until I'm outside that I realize I'm not alone.

"What happened back there?"

"I made a fool of myself again."

"What? When?"

"When I made a comment about you being jealous of Zack."

"I said I wasn't."

"Yeah, but I wasn't talking about football."

"Huh? Oh!" His eyes get wide as he gets it. "If he wasn't beyond happily married to my sister, and you weren't coming to my house to talk tomorrow, I might have been jealous."

"Might?"

"I'm not a jealous person, Gracie."

"I obviously am."

"If I thought you were with someone else, I wouldn't like it."

I have to smile, because he's trying to appease me, and it's kind of adorable. I lean forward, and do something neither of us expected tonight. It's just a quick peck on the lips, but it's enough to have him smiling like he won the lottery.

"Thanks for following me out here."

"I'll follow you anywhere. The boys will be with me, of course, but _anywhere_ you are, I want to be."

It's cheesy, and straight out of some chick flick, but I feel like he means it, and his words make me happy. "Go back inside before I kiss you again."

"That's not really a threat, you know."

"Tomorrow, Keir."

I turn away before I make good on my non-threat. Tomorrow, I'll probably kiss him at least once, and that's enough to keep the smile on my face, all the way home.

# 9

Grace

I'm sitting in my office the next day, when there's a knock on the doorframe. I look up to see Miles in a catcher's mask, his hands in front of his crotch.

"You're ridiculous."

"Hey, if I don't protect my face, and junk, I may not get my wife pregnant again."

"Since she's currently pregnant now, you probably don't want to mention baby number two yet. And I don't think she married you for your face."

He takes off the mask, and scoffs. "You're delusional if you think this face didn't seal the deal."

"Should we call and ask Alex?"

"No," he says, lunging for my phone. "Fine, it wasn't the face, but a guy can be vain sometimes, can't he?"

"Not after setting me up."

"How high up the Richter scale is your anger?"

"If you were a fault line, you'd be gone by now."

"Okay. Not okay, but I get it."

"Do you?"

He sits in the chair in front of me, running a hand through his hair, before looking at me again. "I'm one of your closest friends, as well as your boss, and you think I don't have your back."

"Yes. You were amused by this whole thing, and set me up."

"Only because I think Keir is good for you."

"I'm humiliated, Miles. I would've been even when I found out who Ainsley is to him, but to have all of you laughing at me over it is too much. Especially you, and Alex."

"Alex made me sleep in one of the guest rooms last night. She didn't know until yesterday."

"You didn't tell her?"

"No way. She would've called you, and ruined things."

"A little warning would have been nice."

"I know you, Grace, and shocking the hell out of you was the best way to knock you out of the funk you were in when you thought he was cheating."

"His ex-wife knocked me out of that before I even knew."

"Wait, what? How did she get into the box?"

"Xavier James. He didn't know, and kicked her out when she wouldn't even say hello to the boys, but yeah, it was ugly."

"Those boys deserve much better than her, and so does Keir."

"You don't need to sell me on any of them."

"So, my plan for yesterday worked?"

"We're talking tonight."

"Does he need a babysitter?"

"No, I'm cooking dinner with the boys, and then they're giving us some time alone to talk."

"Interesting."

"They're sweet."

"Uh-huh."

"Shut up."

"Not saying a word."

I glare at him as he gets up, but he just laughs. I know I'm in too deep already, but how could I resist Connor and Trevor. They are adorable, and heartbroken right now. The least I can do is be sweet to them.

The rest of the morning is business as usual. I have meetings with some of the people who work for me, going over their research on places they think we should buy. I answer emails, fill out spreadsheets, and take a few calls. Soon enough, it's time for lunch.

"Hey there," I greet Seriyah, taking a seat next to her at one of the cafeteria tables.

"Hi."

She doesn't sound happy, and she has three plates of food in front of her, so I know it's bad. "Fallout from yesterday?"

"Yep, because it's somehow my fault X-Asshole brought that woman to the game yesterday."

"How is it your fault? Did you set them up?"

"God, no! But apparently my job isn't 9 to 5, and I should've insisted he not take her, because she left so many messages for him with me."

"She called here for him?"

"Yep, because it was the only way to reach him. And, I _did_ tell him to stay away from her, but he said he could make his own decisions."

"I don't know how you deal with him on a daily basis."

"It's not always bad, but when it is...yeah, I deserve the bonuses he gives me."

"You could transfer."

It's not the first time I've suggested it, and just like the other times, she shakes her head at me. "I'm not a quitter."

"There you are," the man in question says, storming over to our table.

"I told you I was going to lunch."

"I need you."

"Do these plates look empty to you?"

"Bring them back with you," he says, reaching for one.

"No," she tells him, smacking his hand. "By law, I get a lunch hour."

"Seriously?"

"Yes."

"This is bullshit."

"Take it up with HR if you have a problem with it."

"Just be back on time."

"You did not just say that to me," she says, getting to her feet. Her eyes are blazing, and I wish I had some popcorn for this show.

"I _did_ say it."

"I work more than eight hours a day without complaining."

"You always complain," he tells her, rolling his eyes.

"When have I ever been late getting back from lunch?"

"You had that date last week."

"I put it on the calendar, and got the extra hour approved as vacation time."

"You know damn well I sign whatever you put in front of me."

"That's your problem."

"Just be back when you're supposed to."

"I'm adding five minutes to my hour since I had to put up with you harassing me at lunch."

"Of course, you are," he mumbles, loud enough for both of us to hear.

"What was that?"

"Add ten."

He walks away, and Seriyah sits back down with a sigh. Grabbing her fork, she digs in to one of the plates with gusto.

"How long have you two been like this?"

"Fighting? Since the day we met."

"It's not fighting, it's foreplay."

"You're crazy."

"I don't think so."

"He's my boss, and an ass."

"Keep protesting, Seri."

"Oh, shut up."

I laugh, and let it go, because I'm living in a glass house right now, and I don't need any rocks coming my way. Miles is more than okay with Keir and I pursuing a relationship, but my doubts about it being appropriate are creeping in again. I'm not planning on letting them run free over my mind, but they're there all the same.

Keir

When the doorbell rings, I'm literally knocked into the wall by my boys as they race to answer it. I should probably be angry, but I can't help laughing. I don't blame them one bit.

"Hi," Grace says when she sees me. Connor is in her arms already, and Trevor's hugging her. The bags of groceries are on the floor at her feet.

"I see how it is, boys. Slam your dad into the wall so you can get the girl."

"They didn't really do that."

"We did, Pretty. We couldn't wait to see you."

She sets him down, and moves out of Trevor's embrace. Putting her hands on her hips, she bends over to look them in the eye. I'm really trying not to laugh as my sons look scared.

"Boys, it is not nice to push people into walls. I'm here for a few hours, so it doesn't matter who I see first. I'm going to hug all of you."

"Sorry, Daddy," Trevor says.

"Yeah, sorry," Connor adds.

"Apologies accepted. Now, let's help Grace carry her groceries to the kitchen."

They each grab a bag, heading to the kitchen. I pick up the remaining two, and when I straighten back up, she pulls me down for a quick kiss.

"Let's try this again. Hi."

"Hi."

"Is it okay that I scolded the boys? I should've asked."

"That wasn't much of a scolding, but yes, it's okay. You're not some stranger butting in where you shouldn't."

"I couldn't really be mad, since they were so excited to see me."

"Who wouldn't be?"

"You don't need to try and charm me, you know."

"I may not have to, but I'm going to. You're a special woman, Gracie, and I'm going to make sure you always know it."

She kisses me again, and links her arm through mine as we walk to the kitchen. The boys have unpacked their bags onto the island, and are sitting on the stools waiting for us. They look like little angels, which I'm sure is the desired effect, and I have to smother more laughter, because they don't need the encouragement.

"Thanks for unpacking, guys."

"I like chicken, Pretty."

"I was hoping you would."

"I don't eat broccoli," Trevor tells her.

"Really? It's so yummy, though."

"It looks weird."

"Looks can be deceiving."

"Maybe I'll try some."

"I need to keep you around," I tell her.

"Yes! Stay!" Connor yells.

"I'm staying for dinner, and we'll see about after."

I unpack my bags, and pick up a small one from Lush. "Did you accidentally drop this in here?"

"No. I picked up some fun bath bombs for the boys."

"What's a bath bomb?" Trevor asks, which is a good thing, because I want to know too.

"It's a bath thingy you drop in the water, and it makes something special."

"Like dinosaurs?"

"Sometimes. Or the night sky, and sometimes, sparkles."

"I don't like to sparkle," Connor tells her, looking very solemn.

"Well, it's a good thing I didn't get you one of those, then."

"I'm man enough to sparkle in the tub with you," I whisper in her ear.

"Good to know."

She shivers, and I know I've got more than a chance with her. She's still right there with me in the attraction part, and I know she's logical enough to understand why I didn't tell her. All I need now is to win over her heart. That's the hardest part, but I've never backed down from anything just because it's hard, and I don't plan to start now.

Once everything is unpacked, I'm kicked out of the kitchen. I spend the next hour chilling in front of the TV, and nursing a beer. I hear laughter, and the clanging of pots and pans, and I can't imagine ever being happier than I am right in this moment.

"Daddy, please come join us for dinner," Connor says, entering my bedroom to stand at the foot of the bed.

"I'd love to."

He leads me down the hall, while I force myself to stifle a laugh. No one has ever called either of my kids formal, and it's just too cute to see Connor like this. When we get to the kitchen, I watch in wonder as Trevor finishes setting the table in the window nook. We normally eat in the living room, in front of the TV, so this is very different.

"Hi, Daddy."

"Hey. Where did you learn how to do this?" I ask, surveying the silverware wrapped in napkins, and the plates on placemats I don't think belong to me.

"Grace taught me how to do the napkins, and she brought the placemats, too. She said we can keep them."

"That's nice of her," I say, looking over to where she's plating food.

"She's nice. I like her a lot."

"Me too." I ruffle his hair, and walk over to the island. "What can I help with?"

She looks up with a smile. "Can you carry the plates to the table, please?"

"Of course."

I grab two plates of chicken, rice, and broccoli, setting them down where Trevor tells me to. There are two smaller plates on the island when I turn back, and I smile at how I was just played. My kid just made sure I was across from Grace, and not next to her, because my boys want those places of honor. I have to shake my head, and laugh.

"What?" Grace asks.

"My kids just outmaneuvered me so I don't get to sit next to you."

"We'll be alone after dinner, so maybe you'll get to sit next to me then."

"Just maybe?"

"If you play your cards right."

"Can I at least kiss the cook right now?"

"There were three cooks, and I can't speak for the other two, but this one would be happy to be kissed."

I round the counter, and pull her into me before kissing her. It's not a quick, sweet kiss like our others today, but one that lets her know I want her. I hope she realizes it's all of her I want, and not just the physical. I'm going to have to make sure she knows it when we talk later. For now, we're broken apart by a little boy reminding us it's time to eat. Thanks, Connor.

# 10

Grace

The boys were great all through the meal prep, helping with anything that didn't require a sharp object, or fire. They washed the broccoli, filled the rice pot with water, and helped me prep the chicken. I am completely enamored with them, and if I'm honest, my feelings for them are making it harder for me to resist their father. Not that I'm trying too hard to resist him.

"This is delicious," Keir says, looking at the boys first, and then me.

"Did you think it wouldn't be?" I ask, because I can't help myself from verbally sparring with him.

"I've never had the pleasure of your cooking before, Grace," he reminds me, playing along with me.

"And you never will again if I know you doubt me."

"You can't resist my kids."

Direct hit, and point to Martin. "True."

"You'll come back and cook again, won't you, Pretty?"

"For you and Trevor, I definitely will."

"Daddy needs to eat too."

"There's a McDonald's down the street, Con. He can eat there if he's not going to be nice."

"He's nice," Trevor tells me, jumping into the conversation with a frantic look on his face. "I promise."

I place my hand on his arm, and lean over to kiss his cheek. "I know, Trev. I was just playing around."

"Mommy said mean things about Daddy, and then she didn't come back."

"Even if your Daddy and I weren't friends anymore, I would always come to see you."

"Promise?"

"Promise."

"Can you help me with my bath bomb, Pretty?" Connor asks, lightening the mood like the sweet four-year-old he is.

"Sure. I mean, is it okay for me to give him a bath, Keir?"

He looks a little choked up, and it takes him a moment to compose himself before he answers. "I'm pretty sure you're not going to be inappropriate with my kids, so yes, if you're okay with it, so am I."

"No, I am definitely not going to do anything weird."

"I have a penis, because I'm a boy."

"Oh my God," Keir says, dropping his head into his hands.

"Trevor has one too, and Daddy has a really big one."

Keir looks like he wants to be sucked into the floor, but I can't let this go. "What'd you give him to say that?"

"Nothing. I swear," he says from behind his hands.

"Uh-huh."

"Was I not supposed to say we have them?" Connor asks, looking worried.

"I knew you had them, but I didn't know your daddy's was so big."

"Grace," Keir implores.

"Have you seen one before?" Connor asks.

"Kill me now."

"Yes," I tell him, thoroughly enjoying this.

"Okay, good. You won't be scared of it."

"No, honey, I definitely won't be scared."

"My teacher said boys shouldn't show them to girls," Trevor tells me.

"Not unless the girl wants to see it, _and_ you want to show it to her."

"I cannot believe this conversation is happening right now."

"Can I see your vagina?" Connor asks.

"No!" Keir yells, as I choke on the sip of water I just took.

I compose myself...barely...so I can answer. "It's not polite to ask a girl to see her vagina, Con."

"Oh. Sorry. I didn't know."

"It's okay."

"No. No, it is not okay. None of this conversation is okay. You're supposed to be like thirteen when we have these conversations."

Keir looks like he's going to pass out at any second, so I reach across the table, and place my hand over his. I'm amused, and not embarrassed by his boys, and I need him to know that.

"They're just asking about body parts, Keir, and not how to use them. You can save that for later, although I'd say you're probably looking at ten, and not thirteen, for that talk."

"I know how to use mine," Trevor says. "I pee with it."

"Yep. That's it. All you need to know now," Keir tells him. "We are officially done with this conversation."

"Are you going to have your talk with Grace now?" Trevor asks.

"After I do the dishes, yes. You guys are excused."

"If I need help with my homework, I'll wait until you're done talking."

"Thanks, Trev."

The boys practically bounce out of their seats, which is truly adorable, but also a little sad, because they told me they know our talk is important. They want us to be okay, and I realize part of that is because there's a good chance they saw their parents not getting along before their mom left. I'm not going to pry, but I hope Keir opens up to me about what happened.

Keir

I insist on Grace going to relax in the family room while I do the dishes. She cooked, so the least I can do is clean. I put the leftovers in containers she must've brought with her, and wipe down the counters once the dishwasher is loaded. I'm not going to lie, and pretend I don't take a little extra time, trying to think of where to start.

"You scared to come over here?" she finally asks, and I drop the dishtowel I was using, and man up.

"Yeah."

"I only bite when I'm aroused...or provoked. And right now, I'm neither."

"I hope to change that, but for now, I just don't know where to start."

"Wherever you want is good."

"Jacky and I were the cliché. College sweethearts turned young married couple. She was happy with me when I was off in war zones, and photo studios, making a big chunk of money. When I got tired of traveling, and wanted to spend more than a few days at a time with her and the boys, our problems began."

"I really don't like her."

"Join the club. Anyway, I started doing the undercover jobs, checking out local businesses, while shooting weddings, and portraits. It was enough money for us to live comfortably, but not at the level she'd gotten herself accustomed to. She started putting me down every chance she got, and trying to force me to take better jobs."

"Force you?"

"She withheld sex, stopped cooking and cleaning, and attempted to make my life a living hell."

"Oh my God."

"It didn't work, because I had the boys and they made me happy enough to not care about what my wife was doing. That infuriated her even more, until she finally just walked out. I was in denial that she was actually gone for about a week, and then I got the paperwork from her lawyer."

"Divorce papers."

"And papers giving up her rights to the boys. When I wasn't good enough, she didn't want them, either."

"I could kill her right now, and not feel bad about it."

"For me, or for the boys?"

"Both. You are great at what you do, and if she wanted to live like a queen, she could work like one. And those boys are the epitome of love."

"They are, and thanks. So, when she pulled this shit, I was a mess. Not on the outside, because my boys didn't need to see that when they'd already lost their mom. I was broken inside over what she'd done to them, and how inferior she made me feel."

"Don't forget your broken heart."

"There wasn't one of those. I think she'd spent too much time trying to break me, and somewhere along the way, I realized I wasn't in love with her. Had we divorced amicably, I'd probably still love her as the mother of my children, but with what she did, I feel nothing but disgust."

"You're sure? Because I really don't want to be a rebound for that _being_ I saw at the game. A rebound in any way is never good, but to her? I would rather never date again in my life."

"Don't hold back," I tell her with a smile. "And yes, I am completely sure."

"I'm choosing to believe you."

"I appreciate it. To continue my sad and embarrassing saga, I didn't want to live in my hometown anymore, but I wasn't sure there were a lot of options for me. Ainsley offered me a place to stay, so I took it. I didn't know it included setting me up with her friend for one of the most disastrous dates in history, or that she'd orchestrated a job for me. So yeah, I'm still embarrassed about both, and because of it, I made some wrong choices with you that hurt you, and cost me my first chance with you."

"Two things about what you just said. One, I want to know about the disastrous date, because Harlow is beyond hot, and I can't imagine you not giving your all with her. Two, I hired you, not Miles. Since you already know I didn't have any clue she was your sister, you can be secure in the knowledge that you got this job on your own."

"She still got me the interview, and put the idea in Miles head about creating the job for me."

"Maybe so, but if you'd sucked in your interview, or not been qualified, I wouldn't have hired you. Miles left it up to me, because he knew you'd be working directly with me, and not him."

"He had no input?"

"Of course, he had input. His name's on the building, and I was just a little upset with you after the water incident. He talked me down from wanting to punch you, because he knew I wanted to hire you before we met."

"You can still punch me if that helps."

"I don't want to punch you, Keir."

"What _do_ you want."

She looks away, and it breaks me a little, knowing she can't look me in the eye when she tells me her truth. "I need you to value me, and treat me like your equal."

"Impossible."

"What?" she asks, whipping her eyes back to mine.

"I'm not your equal, Gracie. You are strong, fierce, and incredible. I'm just a single dad who can't do much right. I know that's not a good endorsement, when I'm trying to convince you to give me another chance, but it's the truth. I'm barely hanging on over here, but I'll give you everything I can. I promise."

She gets up from the other side of the couch, and walks over to me. I look up at her, seeing the determination on her face. I'm scared of what it means, until she shocks the hell out of me by climbing over me, and straddling my lap.

"You listen to me, Keir Martin."

"I'll try, but I'm a little distracted."

She smacks my shoulder, and I smile at her. "You are an amazing dad, and that alone makes you special. I'm pretty sure you're a good brother, and I know you're exceptional at your job. All those things alone would be enough for me to like you, but then there's the way you were with me in Phoenix; sexy, _and_ romantic. Your kisses aren't too bad, either."

"Forgive me if I'm wrong, but does this mean I get another chance."

"Yes."

I reach up, and pull her down to me, kissing her hard. I want so much more than just her kisses, but my boys are upstairs, waiting for their baths, and it's too soon to explain to them why she'd be here in the morning. So, kisses it is. Lots of them.

# 11

Grace

"Please have a seat," I say, when one of my employees knocks on my door.

"What now?" he asks.

He's been in trouble more than once for a variety of misdeeds. Lying on reports, insubordination, and now, sexual harassment. I've written him up, but now he's going to be sent home, and then fired. Matt is on a trip, and he likes to be present for any terminations, so we're giving him the rest of the day off with pay.

"You're going home for the rest of the day."

"Excuse me?"

"A complaint has been filed against you, and while it's being investigated, you'll need to stay out of the building." I don't tell him Scott Griffin has already locked him out of every piece of technology connected to C&C, because I know he's going to try, and it'll piss him off more to find out on his own.

"That bitch can't take a joke."

"As I said, Human Resources is investigating the complaint. You have an appointment with them at three tomorrow afternoon."

"What if I don't go to the meeting?"

"Do you really need me to tell you?"

"I can't believe I'm being punished because you women have such thin skins."

"I assure you, my skin is pretty thick."

Security shows up as I stand, and I have to fight to keep the smirk off my face when I see Jyn is there with Theo. She's a badass, even after giving birth recently, and she'd love nothing more than to take down this misogynistic ass. Unfortunately, he doesn't fight.

I call HR, and let them know he's on his way out, and fill out the form they emailed me. I've just sent it back when Jyn steps back into my office.

"That was fun."

"For who?"

"Me."

"The baby isn't keeping you entertained enough? Or is it Noah who's boring you?"

"My girl is wonderful, and my man is amazing. I just like kicking assholes out of my building."

" _Your_ building, is it?"

"Just shut it, and tell me why you and Keir Martin were steaming up the windows of your car this morning."

"We're dating."

"Come again?"

"Not yet. Or even once. It's new."

"You don't date men from C&C. Or really, any men, but especially not employees."

"He's not really a C&C employee. He's a consultant. Kind of."

"If that's what it takes to get you laid, I'll go for it...even if he has an employee badge, and parking spot."

"Smart ass."

"Smart boobs."

"What?" I ask, bursting into laughter.

"Didn't work, did it? I was thinking we're both smart, but we need different body parts. You have great boobs, so..."

"I am so glad we're friends."

"Me too. I have to get back to work, but let's do lunch this week."

"Definitely. Just let me know when you'll be in, and I'll make it work."

"Will do."

She goes back to work, and so do I. Miles calls me in for a briefing before lunch, because he wanted to let me do the firing on my own. He respects me, and wants everyone else to do the same. He tells me he won't be there with Matt tomorrow, either. I'm surprised, but grateful, knowing he's doing this because he knows I can handle it on my own. Or at least as much on my own as Matt will allow.

I've just returned to my office when my desk phone rings, and I see Ainsley's name on the display. "Hello," I say, amused because I know she's a tech goddess, and probably hacked into the security system to see where I was.

"Your calendar says you're free right now, so do you want to come and have a strategy lunch? We have a whole buffet going in our breakroom."

"Hmm...a chance to see the inner circle of the Foundation? I'll have to think about that."

She simply laughs. "See you in a few."

"Bye."

An elevator is waiting for me when I get to the hallway, and that's not creepy at all. I wonder if Matt knows Ainsley's hacking into his whole company instead of just playing in the Foundation. Maybe he does, and just doesn't care. Either way, I'm not going to be snitching on her.

Alex is at her desk in the Foundation lobby when I walk in, and I have to smile at how cute she looks with her baby bump. "Hey Grace, you need to stop hiding in your office, and visit me more often."

"The whole point of hiring me was so I'd take on some of Miles workload so he could spend more time with you, so I kind of have to be in my office."

"Logic has no place in my lobby."

"Logic always has a place," Ainsley says, coming out of the hallway behind her, and hugging me.

"Only for the logical."

"Put the phones on after-hours, and come to lunch, Mrs. Free Spirit."

"Only because my baby's hungry, and I know you got desserts from Drago Sisters."

I laugh, and follow them down the hall. There are rooms on the sides of the hall, but only a few, and from what I can see, they are massive. Very different from each other, too. An old-fashioned library, a science lab, and a giant closet I know belongs to Stella, are just a few of them. My office downstairs, while designed for me by Chloe Griffin based on what I like, seems boring now.

"I may not want to leave," I say, honestly, when I walk into the giant break room, where a large group of women are comfortably gathered, and see all the food on display.

"I'm sure Reina wouldn't mind keeping you, but Miles would fight her for you," Alex tell me.

"I wouldn't leave Miles, but maybe I can come over and visit?"

"You're always welcome," Ainsley assures me.

"Can I see where you work?"

Conversation seems to stop as Reina walks in and answers for her. "I'm sorry, Grace, but some areas of our offices are off-limits. We're involved in situations with sensitive and confidential information sometimes."

"Oh. I didn't think of that."

"It's okay. I'll be happy to show you all the other offices after lunch, if you'd like."

"That would be great."

Lunch with these women turns out to really be a working one. Ainsley and Sierra combined their ideas for Connor's party into a packet we all look over. Everyone gives opinions, and while some are more passionate than others, all of them are respectful. The things they are planning are insane, and I'm definitely in awe of them right now. I know I can't help with some of the stuff, but they include me in everything I can handle, and I'm grateful for that. I was already convinced I was wrong to have complained about them, but now I know I'd like them to be my friends.

Keir

I never thought I'd be entering a Lush store with my two sons, to buy things for both them and me. I might have come in to buy something for Ainsley, Sierra, or my mom, but not for myself. Yet, here I am.

"Are you looking for something particular today?' A young woman in a black apron asks me.

"Bath Bombs!" Connor yells.

"Good choice," she tells him with a smile.

"My friend bought them one, and they loved it, so we thought we'd pick up a few more."

"Grace is your girlfriend, not just your friend," Trevor says.

"I haven't asked her to be my girlfriend yet, so we'll just keep calling her my friend."

"I can ask her," Connor tells me."

"No. Please don't. I'll ask her when it's the right time."

"Tomorrow night when you have your date?" Trevor asks.

"Maybe."

"You have your hands full," the girl tell me with a laugh, leading us to the bath bombs.

"You have no idea."

The boys pick out several they like the smell of, and also some she recommends to them. I turn around to the Bubble Bars, and make a few of my own choices, because I wasn't entirely joking when I said I'd like to take a bath with Grace. Her curves, bubbles...yeah, sign me up.

"Would you like to see anything else? We have shampoo, shaving stuff, and soaps as well."

"Why not?"

I end up spending a small fortune in the store, but I don't feel bad about it. The boys are looking forward to baths a couple times a week, I'm looking forward to some bubbles, and we all got stuff we can use every day. I'm actually feeling like a great dad at the moment.

"Lush, huh?"

I turn to see Joel walking up to me, shaking his head. "Wipe that smirk off your face, because I have no doubt you've shopped there before."

"I'm not ashamed to admit I'm a regular, as are several of the guys I know, but I didn't know you'd been converted already. Welcome to the club."

"Grace bought us a bath bomb that made the whole tub look like the night sky," Connor tells him.

"Sierra and I have used that one before."

"You take a bath with her? I didn't know boys and girls took baths together? Are you taking a bath with Grace, Daddy?" Trevor's rapid-fire questions hit me like bullets to the chest, because I don't know how I'm going to answer them.

"Oops," Joel says, looking as panicked as I feel.

Here goes nothing. "Sometimes when people love each other, or even just like each other a lot, they take baths together, and sleep in the same bed together."

"Boys and girls?"

"Men and women, men and men, and women and women all do it."

"So, you and Grace are going to sleep in the same bed?" he asks, not questioning the same sex pairings I mentioned. I feel even better about my parenting skills right now.

"Yes," I answer honestly, because it _is_ going to happen.

"And take baths?" Connor adds.

"Probably."

"Okay," they both say in unison.

"That was easy," Joel tells me with a laugh.

"I think they like her more than me."

The two little traitors just smile at me, denying nothing. I know they love me, so I ruffle their hair, and laugh along with Joel.

"You heading home, or did you want to catch a bite to eat?"

"I want to eat with Uncle Joel! "Connor informs me.

Trevor chimes in as well. "Me too! Please!"

"Let's eat," I say.

The four of us walk down the outdoor mall to Lazy Dog Café. It's got a menu with something for everyone, and the boys love seeing the dogs people bring. We can't sit outside this time, because Joel would be hounded by baseball fans, but the hostess finds us a quiet corner inside. He still gets approached, but when he asks people to wait to post the photos until after he leaves, they all agree.

I sometimes wonder at how my boys are growing up with famous people as their extended family. I don't worry about it affecting them negatively, because the men and women they're around are all good people, but I know it's not "normal" for most kids to call up a famous athlete or rock star when they want to chat. Maybe it's just our normal, and I wouldn't change it for anything...well, except to add Grace to it permanently. I may not be ready to get married again anytime soon, or _anytime_ at all, but I want more than just a fling.

# 12

Grace

I'm in my battle armor as I enter the C&C building the next morning. While I always look professional, I rarely wear a suit. Today, I'm in my most expensive one, along with my red soled shoes, and my diamond stud earrings. This is not going to go well, and the more confident I look, the more confident I'll feel as well.

"Hi Grace, you can go on in," Matt's secretary tells me.

"Thanks."

"You ready for this?" Matt asks when I walk in. He looks all business too, and while he _does_ wear suits every single day, there's a subtle difference today.

"Yes."

"Not even a hesitation?"

"The things he said to her are vile."

"I agree. I just wanted to make sure you're good with taking point on this. I'll be here to jump in if you need me, or if he tries to get aggressive, but this is your show."

"I appreciate that."

"I know we haven't interacted much since you've been here, but Miles raves about you, and I know how hard you've been working to take things off his plate so he can be with Alex. Reina also told me you had lunch with her, and the other Foundation women, and she wants to steal you away."

"I said I wouldn't leave Miles."

"I know, and your loyalty to him, and C&C is something money can't buy. I value loyalty in my employees above almost anything else, and if I'm being honest, I'd have a hard time turning down a job with my wife if I was offered one."

"I'm pretty sure you could work there if you wanted to, since you're in charge of everything in this building."

"That's so sweet of you to say, but I value my limbs too much to tell Reina something like that."

"Your limbs?"

"She likes other parts of my body too much to harm them, but I think my arms or legs are fair game."

"You two really are the perfect pair."

"Yes, we are. It took us a long time to get where we are, but it was all worth it."

I inwardly sigh, and maybe swoon a little, at his words. The love he has for Reina is almost a tangible thing I could reach out and touch if I was closer to him. The look on his face is one I want someone to have when talking about me one day. One day soon, and I want it to be Keir, if I'm being honest with myself.

"The media paints you two as a fairytale couple."

He snorts. "I know, and we laugh about it all the time. Our life is far from castles and knights, but it's perfect for us."

"Which gives the rest of us hope."

I don't know what his response to that would be, because his secretary buzzes in, telling us the man we're about to fire is here. Matt vacates his chair, and holds it out for me, which he didn't need to do. I'm learning that the Corrigan men try to do what's right and fair, even if it's not easy. I take the offered seat, square my shoulders, and get ready for the battle ahead.

He's not even in the door before it begins. "What is this shit?"

"Please have a seat," I tell him.

He looks to where Matt's leaning against the wall with his arms crossed, and then back to me. "Who put you in charge?"

"I've been your boss for several months now."

"Stupidest mistake Miles ever made."

"You'll have to take that up with him."

"I think I will." He turns to leave, but doesn't get far.

"Sit down." Matt's voice is icy cold when he says the two words.

The idiot sits, but looks at Matt instead of me. That's okay, because I'm the one about to make my own day.

"After investigating the complaint against you, we have decided it's valid. Effective immediately, your employment with Corrigan & Co. is terminated. Security has cleaned out your desk, and the box of your personal items is waiting for you downstairs."

"No."

"Yes," I tell him, taking out the paperwork from the folder HR left for us. "I just need you to sign these papers, and I can give you your last paycheck."

"I'm not signing. You can't make me."

"No, I can't," I tell him, and press the button on Matt's desk, calling his assistant in. She has her notary stamp with her. "He is refusing to sign."

"Damn right, I am."

I sign a different paper from the folder, and hold it out for Matt to do the same. His assistant notarizes it, and takes it with her. Once the door is closed again, I turn back to the moron in front of me, as I stand up.

"Here is your check. We will be escorting you downstairs now."

"I didn't sign."

"Which is why we did."

He looks to Matt once again. "You're going to just stand there, and let her do this?"

"It's already done."

"You'll regret this. Both of you will regret this."

He storms out of the office, but Matt and I walk in a more dignified pace. No elevator is going to open for him until we get there. The ride downstairs is full of cursing, and more threats. Matt stares straight ahead, and I force myself to do the same, although I _am_ a little alarmed.

The guards take over when we get to the lobby, and we simply watch him as he's escorted out. I must look as sick as I feel, because Matt pulls me into a hug. "He's not going to do anything. Guys like him talk big, but don't even know how to throw a punch."

"You can't be sure of that."

"I can assign you the best private security in the world."

"I don't want to be surrounded by guards."

"You won't even know they're there. I promise."

"Thank you."

"You're welcome. You were great up there, by the way."

"Yeah?"

"Yes. Why don't you take the rest of the day off?"

"I think I'd rather work."

"I'd do the same thing."

"Good to know."

"I'll see you soon. Call me if you need anything at all."

"I will."

I head back upstairs to brief Miles, and get on with my day. Keir is working on the photography part of his job, in preparation for the upcoming hotel shoot, and we have a date at my apartment tonight. This day is definitely going to get better.

Keir

When you want to do your best work, you seek out knowledge from the best of the best. That's why I'm at Candi Griffin's studio, observing her as she photographs some concept car that's debuting at CES soon. I was fairly well-known for my combat and fashion shoots before I semi-retired, but I don't have much experience with places, and things. Candi does it all, and as I watch her, I can tell she's in her element, capturing every detail.

Her assistant is her sister-in-law, Olivia Griffin, and I'm watching with her as the shots transfer onto the screen in front of us. I've seen Candi's work before, so I know why she's so sought after, but seeing her in person is humbling.

"You want to shoot a few, Keir?" she asks, standing up, and holding out her camera.

"I don't want to interrupt your work."

"I wouldn't let you. Come on over."

I may be intimidated, but I'm not going to let this chance pass me by. I walk over, take the camera from her, and crouch down to photograph some of the things I like best about this car. As I shoot, she yells out suggestions and praise. I don't even realize an hour has gone by, until Olivia announces that our lunch has arrived.

"Sorry," I tell Candi, following her over to the kitchen area of her studio.

"For?"

"Wasting an hour of your time?"

"That wasn't a waste. In fact, I was hoping you'd let me use a couple of your pictures."

I stop with my sandwich halfway to my lips. "Seriously?"

"I don't joke about photos. You got some great angles I didn't. I'll give you credit, and some pay, if you don't mind me using them."

"I don't even know what to say."

"Say yes."

"Yes. Thanks. For letting me hang out, and giving me tips, plus this."

"Listen, Keir, because I'm going to give it to you straight. You're going to meet people in this business who will do everything they can to tear you down. They won't help you, because they're afraid you'll be better than them. Me? I want you to be better, because my daughter and son aren't always going to be children, and I'm not willing to miss them growing up. There's enough work out there for everyone."

I don't mention that she's married to a billionaire, because not one of the Griffin women just sits back, and lives off her husband's fortune. They could, but they don't. The world thinks Maggie does, but even though Reina has the reins of the Society, Maggie and her friends are still informed of everything going on in the organization they created.

"I'm not going to lie about being happy you can't do the newest C&C hotel shoot."

She's booked as solid as she'll allow for the next month, and while she would've done it if they couldn't get anyone else, Miles told me she's happy to hand over the reins on this one.

"Just from what I've seen here, I have no doubt you're going to do a great job on it."

"Any tips, since you've done every other one?"

"I would tell you to not forget the details, but from what you shot today, that won't be an issue for you." She sets down her sandwich, and looks over at me. "I honestly hope they keep you on for the rest of the properties, Keir. As I said, I'd rather be with my kids than traveling all over, even for friends."

"That's a relief. I really want this job to be more permanent, but I didn't want to step on your toes."

"My toes are firmly out of reach, so don't worry about anything but taking the best photos you can."

I thank her again, before working with her to edit the pictures of mine she wants to use. I came here today to learn some things, and I did, but I also left with a photo credit, and some new friends. Now, it's time to go home and get ready for my date.

Grace specifically told me not to dress up, so I'm in a t-shirt, faded jeans, and Chucks when I ring her doorbell two hours later. She opens the door, and my mouth goes dry. She has on a strapless maxi dress, and while it's hiding most of her curves, I can't help thinking about pulling down the top, and feasting on the beauty underneath.

"Is that for me?" she asks, pointing to the Lush bag in my hand.

"It's for us."

Her eyes flare, and her tongue peeks out from her luscious lips, although she refrains from licking them. "Come in, and tell me more."

"I told you I'd take a glittery bath with you. If you want."

She pulls me to her, and kissing me hard. "Dinner first, and then you're getting lucky, Mr. Martin. _Very_ lucky."

"As are you."

Dinner is steak, baked potatoes, and asparagus. I know it tastes good, because I eat it all, but I couldn't describe it to you if I tried. I'm too busy making out with Grace.

Her dining table has curved benches with high, tufted backs, instead of regular seats. We're sharing one, and also sharing our food. Feeding each other between kisses. Rubbing our legs together, while we feast on each other's necks, and lips. It's the most sensual meal I've ever shared with anyone, and by the time we've had our fill of the food, she's straddling me, and my shirt is gone.

"The plates," I say, trying to be rational as she takes my nipple between her teeth.

"If you so much as think of getting up right now, I might kill you."

She's riding me through our clothes, but I want more. Leaning around her, I push the dishes as far across the table as possible, before setting her on top of it. I tug her dress down, baring her breasts to me for the first time. No bra.

"You're going to get rewarded for this."

"Yes."

I lean forward, taking a nipple into my mouth, and sucking hard. She grabs my hair, and pulls me closer, harder. The slight sting only intensifies the want I've been feeling since the day we met, and I add my teeth to the mix. I bite, lick, and suck both her nipples until their rosy color has turned bright red, and she's crying out for more.

I remove my mouth with a pop, and respond to her whimper by burying my head beneath her dress to take my first lick along her folds. She tastes like a woman should, and she's dripping with her arousal, making me so hard, I might come in my jeans. Honestly, I don't even care at this point. All I can think about it making her scream my name, as I use my mouth to thank her for not wearing underwear.

I find a rhythm, following her clues and cries, so I can do what she needs. She pulls her dress up, so we can watch each other, making things even hotter. The table's shaking from how hard she's moving against my mouth, and when she grabs the nipples I just abandoned between her fingertips, I growl against her clit.

"I'm so close, Kei. So damn close."

I don't need her to tell me, because I feel it as I slide a finger into her, and then another. She's clamping around them moments before my name leaves her lips on a scream. I don't stop, as she chants it, over and over like a prayer. I don't stop when I feel her clamping around my fingers again as another orgasm rips through her body, and I don't stop when she says she can't take anymore. I know she can, and I want to prove it to her.

After I bring her to her third orgasm, she pulls my mouth away, climbs off the table, and pushes it back as she kneels on the bench next to me, holding onto the back.

"Fuck me. Now, Keir. I need your cock inside me. I'm clean, and on the pill, so just please get inside of me."

I'm not going to say no to that, but it takes me a minute to pull my zipper down without injuring myself, because I'm so hard. Pre-cum is already dripping when I take myself in hand, and move behind her.

"Oh God," she cries out, when I enter her in one thrust.

She's so wet, and tight, and I'm not going to last. Not after eating her for dessert, and having her practically beg for my cock. I'm rough, but she likes it, pushing back against me when I thrust hard.

"I'm going to come fast, Gracie."

"Do it."

"You sure? Because your pussy's so wet, I can taste you in my mouth, and it's all making me a little crazy. If I let go now, it's going to be hard and dirty."

"Yes. Fuck yes, Kei."

Her permission is all I need to let loose, thrusting roughly a few more times before I yell her name as I spill my cum inside of her. She comes right after, and I lean over her for a moment, trying to come back to reality. I've never come like that. I've never taken a woman like that. I've never talked to a woman like that. I've never felt like this.

# 13

Grace

What just happened? I mean, I know what just happened, but sweet baby Jesus, I've never had it like that. I knew it would be good with Keir, because sometimes you just know, but what he did to me...I am ruined. Completely, and utterly ruined. Not just for other men, but for sex in general. He's set the bar high, and I have no doubt he's going to meet it every time we're together.

"That was exceptional."

I have to smile at his big words. "You know I'm going to expect it to be at least that good every time now, don't you?"

"I don't see a problem with that. Any requests?"

I turn around, so I can kiss him, tasting myself on his lips. "More kissing next time. Oh, and I want to ride that delicious cock of yours."

"Delicious, huh? You haven't even tasted it."

"I stand by my description, and don't you worry, it's going to be down my throat before this night is over."

"I'm trying to be good, but when you say things like that, I just want to eat you again while you suck me off."

He can't say something like that, and not expect it to happen. I push him until he's standing, and lead him to my big, soft couch. He lets me push him onto his back, and climb over him, before grabbing my hips, and pulling me down. I lick him up and down while he sucks my clit into his mouth. He lets me tease him for about a minute, before smacking my ass. With a laugh, I suck him in as far as possible.

My hand pumps the base of his cock while I suck, and he licks. My breasts are rubbing against his abs, which contract as I move over him. His fingers enter me again, and I buck against his face. I'm going to come first if he keeps this up, and that's not part of my plan, so I reach down and play with his balls, rolling them over and over.

He thrusts up into my mouth, and I keep doing everything I'm doing, until he roars against me as he comes down my throat. I'm smug, until he picks me up and throws me on the couch under him, eating me like he's starved for me. He stands, and pulls me up with him, and it's all I can do to hold onto the couch as I come so hard, I nearly black out.

"You're going to kill me," I whisper, my voice hoarse.

"We're going out together then, because damn woman."

"I need a little break," I admit, because multiple orgasms is not the norm for me. Not in a week, and definitely not in less than an hour.

"Bath time, then. Lead me to your tub."

"Give me a minute to get my legs back."

Instead of waiting, he scoops me up into his arms, before reaching down to grab the Lush bag from the coffee table. "Where?"

"I was planning on upstairs, but since you're carrying me, we can use the guest room."

"Upstairs, it is."

I bury my face in his shoulder, so he won't see my blush. The mix of the sweet and sexy is almost too much to take. I am falling for the man carrying me up my stairs, and there's nothing I can do to stop it from happening.

He sets me on the counter while he takes out a Bubble Bar, and fills my large tub. After testing, the water, he lifts me up again, and places me in the warm water. I sit forward so he can slide in behind me, and lean back into his solid chest.

"I could get used to this."

"I hope so."

We soak, and cuddle, kissing frequently. At one point, I doze off, and I'm not sure how long I sleep for, but Keir's lips are on my when I wake up, and he tells me we should get out now. I let him dry me off, and carry me to my bed, where we cuddle some more. This time, I do more than doze, falling into a deep sleep.

When I wake up, I see it's only eight, so it was only a short nap. I'm alone, and my heart races a little, thinking Keir left. I pull a nightgown off the pile on my comfy chair, and walk downstairs. Stopping at the sight before me, I cover my mouth, trying to hold back a sob.

Keir turns, his phone at his ear, and smiles at me. He's cleared our plates from the table, and is finishing up the dishes for me. His smile drops when he sees I'm about to lose it.

"Hold on a sec, Con." Placing the phone on mute, he walks over to me. "What's wrong?"

"I thought you left, but you were cleaning my kitchen, and you didn't have to."

"I couldn't leave the mess, and I needed to call the boys before they go to sleep."

"Oh. Of course."

He takes my face in his free hand, and looks me in the eye. "I would never leave while you were sleeping unless we'd discussed it beforehand."

"Okay."

"We're good?"

"We're better than good."

He kisses me on the forehead, and resumes his call. "Sorry. Grace just woke up from her nap, and I had to say hello." He pauses to listen, before smiling. "Yes, adults like naps too, and yes, you can say hi to her."

I walk over and take the phone from him, talking to first Connor, and then Trevor. Keir gets back on after a few minutes, and tells them goodnight before hanging up. He tosses the phone on the counter, and places his hands on either side of me, caging me in.

"I know you're supposed to ride me next, but all I can think about is taking you right here and now."

"I'll have plenty of time to ride you later."

"I was hoping you'd say that."

His jeans were already unbuttoned, so I unzip them, and push them down far enough for his cock to come out and play. He picks me up again, and I wrap my legs around his waist as he guides himself inside of me again. My ass is on the island, and he's taking me hard and rough once again. I love it. All of it. The sweet dad, the man who respects my mind, and the lover who knows my body better than I do after only a few hours. I'm in trouble here, but I don't mind it one bit.

Keir

The past few days have been like a dream. I woke up wrapped around Grace on Sunday morning, and we spent several hours trying out various pieces of furniture in her apartment. I left late in the afternoon to pick up the boys from Sierra and Joel's place. They were bummed that Grace wasn't with me, but I told them she'd come by for dinner this week.

Today is the shoot for the hotel, and I get there early in the morning after dropping the boys at C&C. The daycare will drop Trevor at school, and pick him up later, giving me all day to get this job done.

If I didn't already know how much money Miles is investing in this project, I'd know it now as I walk through the building. Instead of having to move lights and people around, there is a setup in every room, complete with hired assistants who will set up the camera in every area to the specifications I emailed, and take test shots. It's crazy, over-the-top, and pretty cool.

Every camera here is a duplicate of my favorite one, but I still brought my own with me. I'll take pics with the ones they have for me, but I'll also take mine from room to room for some shots too. I take it out in the lobby, dropping my bag in a corner.

I've walked around, catching different details and angles with my camera, when I feel Grace enter the room. I know when she's anywhere I am, but I don't stop working. Not only because she wants us to keep things quiet around work, but also because I'm a professional, and I wouldn't stop a shoot to greet someone.

Once I've gotten enough shots with my camera to get me in the groove, I swap it for the one the assistant has ready for me. This pattern continues through every room on the first floor. As I finish a room, the crew breaks it down, and heads to a higher floor to set up in each type of guest room.

We take a break between floors, enjoying lunch from the catered buffet the hotel kitchen made for us. It gives them a chance to try out their menu, and we get some damn good food. After filling my plate, I take a seat with the hotel management staff, and Grace.

"The photos look amazing," she tells me, a note of surprise in her voice.

"I'm glad you like them."

Maybe my tone is a little snide, but she hired me based off my work, so she should know I don't suck. Her face hardens into boss mode, though, and I brace myself.

"Is there a problem, Keir?"

"I'm just wondering why you hired me if you didn't think I'd do a good job."

Her face softens, and she smiles. "I knew you'd do a _great_ job, but the photos are beyond great, and I'm impressed. I'm sorry I made it seem like I wasn't expecting your best."

"Thanks. I shouldn't be so touchy, but I want to do quality work that will help sell this place to the masses."

"I have no doubt you're doing just that."

"I'm really sorry I snapped. That was unprofessional, and I hope you won't hold it against me."

"I appreciate the apology, but I don't hold a grudge unless it's for behavior that happens continually. I understand this is your first job of this type for us, and you're a little stressed, so just don't make it a habit, and we'll be good."

"I won't. Thanks for understanding."

The men and women sitting with us look relieved to see us avoiding a fight, and I'm relieved to know we're good as well. This job has me so stressed out, because it's my first big one for C&C, but I know better than to engage with my boss in a combative way. Especially when that boss is also someone I was planning on asking to officially be my girlfriend tonight.

The rest of the day goes as smoothly as the first, and I'm happy with the pictures when I look them over at each setting. I still have editing to do, and a presentation for Miles and Grace to put together, but I'm excited by the feedback everyone's given me today. Candi told me to own this job, so they'd hire me for more, and I know I did just that today.

Later that night, I open the door to Grace, wearing another of the maxi dresses she favors when she's off work. This one has an off the shoulder neckline, and a gathered waist. I know she's wearing a bra and panties this time, because we're with the boys tonight, and my dick sighs a little in frustration.

"Hi," I tell her, kissing her once the boys have greeted her with their own hugs and kisses.

"Hi."

I lean in to whisper in her ear as I hold her in my arms. "I want to tell you again how sorry I am for being rude today."

"And I'll tell you again that I understand, and it's okay."

"I promise it won't happen again."

"I believe you."

"Are you asking her, Daddy?" Connor wants to know. I love my kid, but right now I want to lock him in a closet.

"Asking me what?"

I rub the back of my neck, and blow out a breath. "Do you want to be my girlfriend?"

"Maybe," she says, her eyes sparkling, because she knows I'm on the spot here.

"Please, Grace," Trevor implores.

"Yeah, please," Connor adds.

She steps back from me to look at all of us. "I don't think I've ever had a whole group ask me at once."

"I was going to ask you later, when we were alone."

"I'm sure."

"Welcome to my life."

"I love your life, and I'd love to be your girlfriend."

"You're sure? I don't want a yes, just because the boys are pressuring you."

"I'm sure."

"Now can we eat?" Connor asks.

"Yes," I tell him with a laugh, taking Grace's hand in mine.

Tonight is pizza, because I don't want Grace thinking she has to cook every time she comes over. It's a good night, filled with laughter, and I know in my bones she belongs here with us. She helps me put them to bed later, and makes out a little with me on the couch, but she leaves before midnight. We've both agreed we want the timing to be right for her to sleep over with the kids here, and it's not tonight. Soon, but not now.

# 14

Grace

It's the day of Connor's birthday party, and I'm feeling a mixture of excitement, and nervousness. Excitement, because what the Foundation women and I have planned is probably the coolest birthday party ever. Nervousness, because I'm spending the night at Keir's house while the boys are home for the first time.

It's been two weeks since he asked me to be his girlfriend, and they've been the best two weeks of my life. We all have dinner together almost every night, but I haven't stayed at their house yet. Keir has been back to mine a few times, and we've had some afternoon delights in one of the guest apartment suites in the C&C building, but this is big.

I get to the apartment building where most of the Foundation women and their significant others live, early, so I can change into the costume Stella has for me. I've never been here, but I've heard it has even more amenities than the C&C building, which is saying something. It's not normally open for anyone to see, but for Connor, they're making an exception.

Bypassing the valet company set up on the street, I drive to the underground garage, where armed guards check my car before letting me through. Once I'm parked, the elevator takes me into a lobby of sorts. There's no seating, just a guard desk, where several more men and women are on watch. I'm escorted outside, where I realize why Ainsley chose this venue instead of her own home.

The open lawn is bigger than a football field, and has been completely done up to recreate the island of Themyscira. To the left, I see a gated area with a pool, and to the right is a stable. I should be more amazed than I am, but not much about the Corrigans and what they do, surprises me anymore.

"Grace!" Sierra yells, running up to me. She's already in her leather Amazon warrior costume, and I have to admit, she looks fierce.

"You look ready to go into fake battle."

She spins for me, with a laugh. "This is going to be awesome."

"Yes, it is."

"Stella's waiting for you in the pool house. I'll let you in the gate."

The pool house is full of activity when I enter, as the rest of the women are getting dressed. I haven't seen my costume, although I was measured for it, and when Stella's assistant, Kevin, holds out the Wonder Woman costume to me, I know there's a mistake.

"This is the wrong costume."

"No, this is all yours," Ainsley tells me, as she walks up.

"But you or Sierra or Reina should be her."

"Reina is going to be Diana on the island, and I'm Antiope. We wouldn't be having this kick-ass party without you, and we all agreed on it."

I look around, to where all the women are smiling and nodding, and I tear up a little. It's like a childhood dream is coming true, although I'm in Gal Godot's costume, and not Lynda Carter's. There's more coverage, so I'm grateful for the modern movie.

"Thank you."

"You're welcome. Now, go get dressed so we can do your hair and make-up."

Kevin leads me into one of the bedrooms for privacy, and helps me into the costume. Inside the bag he's carrying are wedge boots, bracelets, an arm cuff, and the golden lasso. He tells me I'll get my crown when Stella does my hair.

"Wow," he says as I spin for him. "Keir is going to faint."

"Thanks, but I hope not."

Stella grabs me as soon as I walk out of the room, pulling me into a chair. "The guests are getting here soon, so let's do this."

While she does my hair, one of the other Foundation women, Rhieve, does my make-up. It doesn't take them long to do what they need to do, and soon, the crown is being placed on my forehead. As I turn around, all the gathered women start clapping.

"You ready to lead the way?" Reina asks, linking her hand with mine.

"You're really sure about this?"

"We're really sure."

The doors are already open, so we walk out past the pool, and onto the grass. The area is filled with kids, standing behind stanchions that have appeared since I walked through earlier. Everyone goes quiet when they see us walking out. Well, everyone except Connor, who lets out a yell, and runs to me. I catch him, and pick him up, kissing him, before setting him down again. He's in a Wonder Woman t-shirt, and looks so happy to see us, making my heart melt even more.

"Come over here, and let everyone in, Con," Ainsley calls to him.

He takes my hand, and I follow him over. Keir, Trevor, Zack, Joel, and a couple who I'm sure are Keir's parents are already waiting for us there. Sierra and Ainsley motion him forward, but he's still got my hand in his. I lean down to whisper in his ear as he tries to tug me forward.

"Go see your aunts. I'll still be here when you're done."

"Promise?"

"Promise."

He scampers away, and when I look up, Keir locks eyes with me, and mouths a thank you. I nod, and watch the festivities begin. The kids are in awe as Ainsley and Sierra explain about all the games and stations. The Foundation women explained to me how they train to be prepared in case a situation where they're helping someone turns violent. They're using that training today.

They're teaching archery, and sword fighting, with foam weapons. They've also hired mini horses for riding lessons, and have stations set up with science experiments, cooking, and bracelet and crown making. It's pretty amazing, but the best is still to come.

I hold Connor's hand on one side, and Trevor's on the other as we try everything out. Kids come up, and ask for pictures with me, and I'm happy to oblige. It's awesome to see the girls, and some boys, dressed up like Wonder Woman, or wearing t-shirts with her symbol or image on them. Keir and his parents trail behind us, and while Connor introduced us, I haven't had time to interact with them.

When Ainsley calls for everyone to stand on the sidelines, I leave Connor with his family, and make my way to the spot I'm supposed to be in for the finale. As we all watch, the Foundation women put on a choreographed fight scene, pretty much identical to the ones from the movie. I saw one of the practices in the gym, but this right here is legit. When Ainsley and Reina start to spar, I look around, watching everyone's reaction before I get ready for my part.

When the "boosh" from Reina's bracelets sounds, and the flames shoot towards me, I pull the cord to uncover the cake, and watch as the flames hit the candles. It had to be timed perfectly, and I did it. Thank God, I did it.

The crowd cheers, and I'm pulled into an embrace with the other women. We bow, then step back to let everyone see the masterpiece the Drago sisters have created. It's a mix of old and new Wonder Woman, with every logo, every bracelet and crown, and of course, the golden lasso. It's perfect, and I'm glad I got to be part of this day, for a little boy I've come to love.

Keir

"Connor and Trevor are enamored with her," my mom says, watching the boys eating a second helping of cake with Grace.

"She's really good with them."

"Be careful."

"Dad doesn't have a problem with her," I remind her, pointing to where he's just joined them at the table, with a soda for Grace.

"I don't have a problem with her, per se. I just worry that this is all happening too fast. What if she gets tired of them, or you?"

"She's already promised them she'd stay in their lives, even if she and I aren't together."

"It's easy to say that when things are good."

I don't like her saying these things, because I've thought of them myself. I push them out of my mind every single time, but they're there, in the back of my mind. Right now, they're in the front of it, too, but I'm trying to push them back.

"You know I put them before everyone else. That hasn't changed."

"I know, and I want you to find a good woman after all you've been through, but like I said, this just seems rushed. If it was just you, I'd tell you to do whatever you want."

"But, it's not."

"No."

Connor calls us over then, ending our conversation, but not the thoughts going through my mind. Maybe my mom's right, and I need to slow things down. Not end them, but slow them.

"Can I talk to you for a minute?" I ask Grace when we get to the table.

"Sure."

The guests have all gone home, but the Society women and their men are here, so I take her to the other side of the field for some privacy. Even as I say the words, they feel wrong, but I don't stop.

"I think we need to slow things down."

She looks stunned, and I don't blame her. "I don't understand."

"I have more to think about than just myself, Grace."

"I love your boys."

"And they love you. But what happens when you get a better job offer, or get tired of being a surrogate mom for two boys who will never stop moving, or asking questions?"

"I have no intention of ever leaving Corrigan, and again, I love those boys."

"I can't take chances with them. My mom reminded me of that."

"Of course, she did."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"She's made it clear all day that she doesn't like me."

"She's just protective."

"What is it you want?"

"We see each other when I don't have the boys."

"You honestly think that's okay? That I'm going to be okay with that? That _they_ are?"

"They're resilient. After all, they survived their mom leaving."

I don't say that she's just a friend, and not family, but it hangs in the air between us. "I was going to tell you I loved you tonight, but now I feel like the biggest idiot in the world," she says, tears running down her face, as my heart breaks.

"Gracie, please. It's just about taking things slow. I don't want this to be over."

"Well, we can't always have what we want, can we?"

"Don't walk away from me."

"Walk away? You're pushing me into oncoming traffic right now, Keir, so don't you dare try and blame this on me."

"You think this is easy for me?"

"I honestly don't care."

She walks back to the party, and I run to catch up with her. The boys are with my parents, but when they see Grace, they run up to her.

"Why are you crying?" Connor asks you.

"I need to get your presents from the car, okay? I'll be right back."

"No! You said you'd give them to me when we got home!"

"Grace isn't coming home with us, Con," I tell him, pulling him from her.

"She has to! She's supposed to spend the night, and make us waffles in the morning! She promised! You promised!"

Grace chokes out a sob as she kneels down to pull both boys into her arms. "I love you. I love both of you, and that isn't going to change. I can't come over any more, but if you need me for anything, you have your aunts contact me, okay? I will always be there for you when you need me. I promise."

"I need you now," Connor tells her, and it takes every bit of strength in me to keep my own tears from falling.

She kisses his cheeks, his forehead, and places a peck on his little mouth. "Your whole family is here for you right now, and I need you to be good, and go home with your Daddy and Trevor, okay?"

He nods, and she moves on to my other son. He holds her so tight, I'm surprised I don't hear any of her bones breaking. I don't hear what they say to each other, because they're whispering, but Trev nods too, before letting her go.

She doesn't look at me as she walks over to the pool area, where Kevin is waiting to let her in, and I don't see her again when she leaves, because I'm holding two little boys whose hearts I just broke along with my own.

My sister glares at me as I walk out with the boys, and I'm pretty sure she's planning some kind of bodily harm for me, but I've done what I think is right, and there's no going back now. My parents help me carry out the pile of gifts Grace left for Connor, and my mom hugs me hard as I close the back of the SUV.

"You did the right thing. It hurts a little now, but imagine how it would've been a month from now, or a year."

I'm already second-guessing my decision, so I don't verbally agree with her, or even nod. I can't take it back, but in my heart, I know I've just lost my only chance at happiness. My head tells me I had to protect all of us, but it feels wrong. _I_ feel wrong.

# 15

Grace

I wanted to stay in bed today, like I did yesterday, but I've worked too hard for too long, to let a man keep me from my job. Keir Martin wounded me, but I'm not broken. I simply won't allow myself to be.

The knock at my door reminds me of this last-minute meeting I set up at the party on Saturday. "Come in."

"Hi, Grace," Ethan Hall says, entering my office.

"Hi, Ethan."

"Thanks for giving me an interview."

"I need an assistant, as you are apparently aware, and I like that you took the initiative to approach me."

"You looked totally hot as Wonder Woman. Not that you're not hot now, but it's a different hot."

"Ethan, you do realize you're not supposed to call your boss 'hot', don't you?"

"Oh yeah. I've been around the So-Foundation women since I was born, so I know better, but I'm still a teenage boy." He looks sheepish, but I've been around the block more times than he is, and it's not that easy to charm me.

"Nice try, but that won't fly here."

He sits up straight, and smiles. "I knew I liked you."

I like him too, because I've seen him at lots of C&C functions, and behind that cocky charm is a kid who rolls on the grass with his little sister, no matter what he's wearing. He also respects his mother and her friends more than any other teenager I've encountered. He's a good kid, and he's not scared of me, which is a definite plus.

"Tell me why I should hire you."

"I know this building better than anyone, so I can get you the best coffee."

"I have a Keurig behind you on the counter."

He fights a smile, and so do I. "I grew up around almost all women for the first ten years of my life, so you'll never find me disrespecting one. The hot Wonder Woman comment notwithstanding."

"I've seen you with Tegan and her friends, so I know you were raised right. And points for the big word."

"That's another thing; I do well in school. Not a 4.0, but I didn't fail anything."

"Also good."

"I'm a hard worker, and I take work very seriously."

"You've had other jobs?"

"Not officially, no. I've helped at the Foundation, and also on my grandparent's farm."

"I'm more impressed with the farm work."

"It's hard, but I love it."

"Why do you want to work for me?"

"Honestly?"

"What do you think?"

"I heard you complained about the Foundation getting too many perks, and while I don't agree with you, that's totally badass. Most people are scared of Reina, but you're not. I'm in awe of you."

"Um, thanks. I think."

"I graduated early, but Mom won't let me go to college out of state yet, because she said older girls are going to corrupt me, so I'm taking online classes right now."

"Can you handle work with school?"

"Yes."

"I'm not sure how I'm going to explain to HR that I hired you for a position I never posted."

"Don't worry, they love me."

"I'm sure they do. And thanks for making me laugh today."

"Saturday was harsh. Is there anything I need to know about Keir Martin? Should I punch him if he asks to see you?"

"He works for me, so he'll have to see me sometimes, and no. Don't punch him."

"I've got your back, Grace."

"I appreciate that, Ethan."

I call down to HR, and they tell me my assistant job has actually been posted for months, because I was supposed to hire someone. Ethan applies online, and I send him downstairs to take care of the hiring paperwork. After, I walk over to see Miles, and tell him the news. When I get there, he's not alone.

"Why are you looking at the pictures without me?" I ask, seeing him and Keir leaning over a portfolio. We've had initial meetings, but haven't decided on final pics yet.

"Keir just wanted to go over some things with me," Miles says, a wary look in his eyes.

"This is my project, and I should be involved in all aspects of it."

"No one is trying to cut you out of anything," Keir tells me with sigh.

"Doesn't look that way."

I walk out, and don't look back. I tried to pretend this job wasn't like all the others I've had, where the boys club rules, but I was wrong. I know how to deal with it, but I'm tired of having to. I don't want to leave this job, but I won't be disrespected. I have to hope this is just a one-time thing.

Keir

"What should we bring to your potluck at school, Trev?" I ask, walking through the grocery store with him and Connor.

"Can we make something?"

"I wish we could, but you know we can't. Do you want me to ask Gavin?" Our friend owns a cooking school, and could easily whip something up.

His shoulders slump. "Why can't we ask Grace?"

"I explained it to you already."

"You said she's not your friend, but she's still my friend. And Con's. She said so."

"I know what she said, but it's complicated."

Even more so, since she saw me with Miles earlier. I wanted an opinion, and yeah, I was too chicken-shit to see her, so I went to him. It was the wrong thing to do, and now things are downright icy.

"She promised to be our friend," Connor reminds me.

"I know, but I can't call her."

"I can. Can I, please?" Trevor asks.

He looks so hopeful, and she _did_ promise, so I take out my phone and shoot her a quick text, letting her know it will be Trevor calling. Handing him the phone, I remind him not to pressure her.

"I need your help," he says, when she answers, and I shoot him a stern look. He listens for a few seconds before continuing. "It's potluck for my class on Friday night, and Daddy can't cook, or bake."

He listens for a few seconds, and smiles. "You're the best! I miss you!"

He talks to her for a couple more minutes, before handing the phone to Connor. My little boy tells her he's waiting to open his presents until he sees her again. When he starts to cry, and glares at me, I know she was truthful with him, and told him it's up to me. I feel like such an asshole, especially when he hangs up before handing the phone back to me.

"What is she making?" I ask Trevor.

"I don't know, but it will be good. Everything Grace makes is good!"

"When can we see her, Daddy?" Connor asks.

"I don't know."

"Just because she's not your friend, doesn't mean she's not ours. It's not fair that she can't come over," Trevor tells me, quietly.

"I'll ask her soon, okay?"

They nod, and I feel like even more of an ass. I treated her like crap, and yet she's still helping my son. Because she cares about him, and promised to help him. No matter what I did, she's not holding it against my boys, and I realize even more how wrong I was. My mom was wrong too, but I let my insecurities over Jacky and how she treated me, affect how I felt about Grace. I don't know what to do now.

The day gets even better when I see Ainsley's car parked outside my house when we get there. She has a key, but she'd get inside without one if she had to. I park in the garage, and remind the boys to help me with the groceries, because I know they want to run in and see her. I want to run the other way, because I know why she's here. She was pissed at me on Saturday, and I've avoided her since then.

"Auntie A, guess what? Grace is going to make stuff for my class potluck!"

"Of course she is, Trev, because she's amazing."

"She is," Connor agrees.

"You called her?" Ainsley asks, looking relieved.

"Trev called her with my phone."

She rolls her eyes. "Boys, can you put away the groceries while I talk to your dad?"

"Are you going to yell at him about Grace?" Trevor asks her.

"Yep."

"Okay."

"No loyalty around here," I grumble, following my sister into the formal living room no one uses.

"After what you did to them, do you expect them to be okay with you?"

"I did it for them. Things were moving too fast. I didn't want to break up with her, but she wouldn't be reasonable."

"What exactly were you offering her?"

"I said we could spend time together when I didn't have the boys."

"After spending the past few weeks _with_ the boys?"

"Mom made me realize we needed to step back, so she could be sure she wanted three for the price of one."

"Mom? You listened to Mom? Are you insane?"

"She's been happily married for almost forty years, and she's just looking out for me, so yes, I listened to her."

"Everyone's situation is different, so you can't just go by the fact _she's_ happily married. And, you also have to look at other facts. Like that she feels guilty for never saying anything to Jacky when she left the boys with her to go shopping every day, or something equally dumb. She took the boys every time she was asked, and she thinks that helped give your ex a warped sense of what she should be doing as a mom."

"That's crazy, because Jacky is just a narcissistic bitch."

"Regardless, Mom is going to try and micromanage anything having to do with you and the boys because of her own guilt. Even if it means you lose the best thing that ever happened to the three of you."

"I'd been thinking the same things she was, though. I mean, what if Grace does get tired of us?"

"What if you get tired of her?"

"I can imagine that happening."

"And yet, you can imagine her leaving you."

"I worry more about the boys than me."

"That's bullshit, and her helping Trev with his potluck is proof that I'm right. You're worried about being left again, because you haven't allowed yourself the time to heal, and understand that Jacky didn't leave you because you're _you._ She left because she's _her_."

"I'm over her. Honestly, I am."

"I know you are. But you're not over _you_. You jumped right in to take care of the boys, and ignored what you needed."

"I needed to be there for them."

"Yes, you did, but you didn't have to do it all alone. You wanted to, and we all stepped back and let you, but any one of us would've given you the time you needed for yourself."

"Just because I didn't mourn the loss of my marriage, it doesn't mean that has anything to do with me and Grace."

"Your lying to yourself if you believe that."

"I don't need this from you."

"Yes, you do, but apparently losing Grace isn't enough to pull your head out of your ass, so I'm going to leave now. I love you, Keir, and I'll be here when you need me."

"I love you too, and if I need you, I'll call."

"I hope so."

She goes into the kitchen to say goodbye to the boys, who walk her to the door. She nods her head at the pile of unopened presents from Grace, and gives me a pointed look. I ignore it, just like I'm ignoring everything else that's telling me I'm wrong. If I let myself believe it, I'd fall apart, and there are two little reasons I can never let that happen.

# 16

Grace

I balance the container with the dessert bars on top of the larger food container, and make my way inside Goolsby Elementary School. I called Luke Griffin earlier to let him know I was bringing something for Trevor, and he said the school librarian, Nikki, would be expecting me. The office ladies hold the door, and direct me to the library once I sign in.

"Hi! You must be Grace," a bubbly woman with blond hair, and a bright pink dress, says when I step inside.

"Yes. Are you Nikki?"

"I am. Let me take something from you."

"Thanks. I have cookie butter Oreo bars, and mini Shepherd's pies. This container plugs in to keep the pies warm."

"We can plug them in in here," she tells me, leading me into her office.

"I appreciate you letting me drop them off early."

"Of course. Trevor is such a sweet boy."

"He is."

"You're sure you can't make it tonight?"

"No. His father and I aren't together anymore, but I told Trev I'd help him. It would be awkward for me to be here."

"That sucks."

"It does," I agree. "I need to get to work, but thanks again."

I leave, wishing I could come back later, but knowing I can't. Keir and I still talk mostly by email, or through Ethan, and I don't see that changing anytime soon. This is all a mess I didn't create, but can't seem to make my way out of, nonetheless.

Things only get worse when I arrive at C&C. Reporters are all over the front sidewalk, and when they see me, they try and rush my car. Security holds them off, and Jyn is waiting for me when I get inside.

"What the hell is going on?"

"You haven't seen it?"

"Seen what?"

"Fuck. Let's go to my office, so we have some privacy."

I follow her into her office, where she closes the door and asks me if I want a glass of wine. "It's not even nine yet."

"In London, it's almost five."

"We aren't in London."

"You're going to wish you were when you see why the reporters are outside."

"Just play it."

She finds what she's looking for on her computer, and comes to sit next to me. I know it's bad when she takes my hand in hers, and squeezes, before starting the video. It's even worse than I could imagine.

_"We've received word of a sexual roulette in the Corrigan & Co. organization. Vice-President of Hospitality Acquisitions, Grace Faulkner, is being linked to no less than four employees of the company, including President and CEO, Matthew Corrigan. His brother, Miles, who as Director of Acquisitions is her direct supervisor, is also shown in intimate embraces with Ms. Faulkner. The other two men are her subordinate, Keir Martin, and her assistant, Ethan Hall, who is a minor."_

They put pictures on the screen of me hugging Matt at Connor's party, hugging Miles in the parking garage at his building after I had dinner with him and Alex this week, making out with Keir on the dance floor in Phoenix, and kissing Ethan on the cheek. I want to throw up, but I continue listening to this crap, because I need to hear it all.

_"Ms. Faulkner was hired several months ago, passing up others already working for the Corrigan brothers. A source tells us it's well-known around the office that she is carrying on affairs with both, possibly at the same time. Mr. Martin was recently hired for a job that was created specifically for him. The source told us no one knows exactly what he does, but the photos we've obtained were reportedly taken while on a work trip._

_"Finally, we come to Ethan Hall, son of noted scientist Caleb Hall. Ms. Faulkner hired him as her assistant less than a week ago, despite interest from those already employed by Corrigan & Co. She has been very affectionate with him in front of other employees, making them uncomfortable because of his age. We're told Metro is looking into the allegations of their affair, and we'll have more for you as information continues to come in. So far, we have been unable to reach anyone at Corrigan & Co. for comment."_

"Oh my God," I say, bending over to put my head between my knees before I pass out.

"No one with any sense is going to believe this bullshit, Grace."

"You know that's not true. People smell blood in the water, and circle like sharks. I've worked so fucking hard to crack the glass ceiling, and now the shards are about to slice me to pieces."

There's a knock at the door before she can respond, and I'm not surprised to see Reina walk in. She's followed by Alex, and Tegan. I stand to accept the hugs they give me, before sitting back down to hear what they have to say.

"We all know what they're saying isn't true," Reina tells me.

"Except that I was involved with Keir."

"But it had nothing to do with him getting hired, and Miles wanted you to behave like a couple at the restaurants."

"That's true."

"As for my son, he definitely has a crush on you, but I know you well enough to know it's not reciprocated," Tegan assures me.

"I'm totally enamored by him, but more in an amused aunt way than anything else," I assure her.

"That's the norm."

"Matt and I try to ignore the press as much as possible, because much of what they say is not worth the time to dispute it, but this time, we agree that a press conference would be a good idea," Reina informs me.

"With Matt?"

"No, with us. All three of us are going to speak up."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes," Alex tells me, squeezing my arm.

"Okay."

Reina gives me my marching orders. "I'm going to send you up to Stella, because she says she has something perfect for you to wear, and then we'll meet with Audrey to go over what we want to say."

"Thank you."

"You've done nothing wrong, Grace, and while I can't guarantee everyone will listen to us, we want to tell them the truth."

I know she's right, but having these women support me means a lot. I go upstairs with them, and let Stella put me together once again before being briefed by Audrey. We're just getting ready to head outside when Ainsley runs in, and clicks on the TV. There, in all her glory, is Jacky. Crying, and playing to the crowd, while she tells them how her children are being exposed to me.

"She gave up her rights to those boys, and now she decides to care?"

"She doesn't care about them. All she's ever wanted is the spotlight, and now she's got it," Ainsley tells me.

"We need to ask Keir what he wants me to say before we go down there."

I haven't seen him, or the other guys yet today. Reina and Alex said their husbands told them to say whatever they want, but this is different. Keir is already worried about me hurting his children, and now I'm afraid that's what I'm doing.

"He's going to be livid."

She calls him as we get into the elevator, and the conversation becomes very heated, very fast. I'm afraid she's going to throw her phone at one point, but she takes a few deep breaths, and simply tells us he wants us to say nothing about the boys. I respect that, I do, but it hurts a little that he's unwilling to let me defend myself against Jacky saying I'm corrupting her children.

I put that out of my head as I walk outside with Reina, Alex, and Tegan at my side. Stella gave me a maroon dress with a black insert, and some edgy cutouts, along with some fierce heels by Jimmy Choo. My hair is straight, and sleek, and my make-up is flawless. On the outside, I look perfect, and I'm trying to be okay on the inside too, as Reina steps up to the microphone.

"I shouldn't have to be here talking to you today. _None_ of the women on this stage should be here, because we have work to do. But, here we are, addressing lies that your networks, and newspapers, have chosen to print. Grace Faulkner is a hard-working woman, who has earned her place at Corrigan & Co. The picture you're all circulating of her hugging my husband is from a birthday party, where I was also in attendance. This particular photo is troubling to me, because every guest was required to turn in their cell phones and cameras when they arrived. We had photographers there, but none took this picture. I'm going to find out who brought a camera into my backyard for malicious purposes, and because of the papers that person willingly signed upon entering my building, I will be suing them for $100,000,000. That is all I have to say about this nonsense."

She steps back, and Alex takes the microphone next. "As Reina said, this is a waste of our valuable time for all of us. Grace has been a blessing to my husband and I, taking over part of his workload so he can spend time with me during my pregnancy. The picture of them is from the garage of our condo, where he walked her to her car at my request. Honestly, though, it could've been taken anywhere. I'm a 'hugger' and I've rubbed off on my husband. He doesn't go around randomly hugging his employees, but he _does_ hug our friends, and Grace has become one of my best friends. I hug her, and he hugs her too. Stop the presses, because friends hug."

She just steps away from the podium without another word, as Reina flashes an amused smile at her. She was supposed to say a little more, but what she said was great, and I'm glad we really are friends. Tegan adjusts the microphone like she's choking it, before addressing everyone.

"I am disgusted and appalled that each of you thinks it's okay to drag my teenage son into your drama. He works for Grace, but that is it. Work. He approached her, knowing she needed an assistant, and passed his interview with her. All of these so-called people who wanted to work for her didn't take that initiative. Furthermore, I am completely offended that all of you with your pitchforks out honestly believe I would let my son work for someone with no morals. Grace has more morals than all of you combined, and you should be ashamed of yourselves for saying what you're saying. So, she kissed his cheek? I kiss the kids in my social circle on the cheek, too. Grow up, America."

I have to go on after that? Well, okay then. Time to pull up my panties, and tell my truth.

"I appreciate the support from these amazing women, who knew the truth without even asking me. I don't know who is behind this campaign, aimed at trying to hurt me, but I know we'll find out. In the meantime, all I am prepared to say is that yes, I had a relationship with Keir Martin. It in no way impacted his being hired for the job he's doing, which he is uniquely qualified for, and has not affected his job performance, or mine. Miles Corrigan was aware of our relationship, and had no problem with us pursuing it."

They shout questions at me as I step back, but I ignore them as Audrey instructed me to, and walk away with the other three women. It's out there now, the truth, and whatever happens, I'm thankful for that.

Keir

"I want to be out there," Ethan says, pacing back and forth.

"Your mama's handling it," Caleb reminds him.

"I know, but I hate this. Grace respects me, but she still thinks of me as a kid. She'd never do anything sexual with me."

"We know," Miles tells him.

"The women can handle this, and it needs to be them. If we go out there, it will look worse for Grace," Matt adds.

"For you guys, because you're married, but Keir should be out there."

The kid glares at me, and I know I deserve it. Audrey asked me to release a statement, but I can't. My lawyer advised me not to, because we're both more worried about shutting Jacky down. She gave up her rights, and she can't just take them back in the media.

"I've got it," Ainsley says from inside her office.

We gathered here in her underground lair, because her team is looking for the mastermind of this giant cluster-fuck. My money's on the guy Grace and Matt fired, but my sister told me to wait and see.

"Who is it?" Miles asks.

"Some restaurant owner in Phoenix is the one who leaked the pics. One of the women on your floor, who has a son in the daycare center took the party pic, and the one of Grace kissing E on the cheek. I'm looking into their connection right now, but I know it was them."

"That son of a bitch."

"Wait, he did this because we didn't like a couple of his restaurants? I thought you made a deal for the others."

"I did. We're supposed to be signing the papers tomorrow."

"That's not happening," Matt says, looking like he wants a few minutes alone with the guy when he shows up. I want my own time alone with him, too.

"What the fuck is wrong with people? We're giving him a damn good deal for the other places," Miles tells him.

"Anything out of the ordinary at the places you didn't like?" Ainsley asks me.

"One was okay, but not great. The other had great food, but store-bought salsa, and bad service. We waited longer than necessary to be seated, and the kid who was waiting on us couldn't be bothered to pay any attention to us until we were kissing. He literally interrupted us to say we needed to order dessert, or pay."

"Um, yuck," my sister says.

"It was uncomfortable, but if he hadn't been disregarding us the rest of the time, we might have let it slide."

"Is this him?" she asks, moving so I can see her screen.

"Yep."

"Owner's kid."

"I'd be pissed at the kid, and not the people giving me over a million dollars, but that's just me," Matt says.

"Nah, you'll be pissed if someone says anything about Mitch, but you're smart enough not to start a public smear campaign against them," Caleb says.

"Okay, maybe. And yeah, I'd take it totally private."

I leave them to their plans to head back upstairs. Tomorrow is also the day when Miles and Grace will be choosing the photos to use for the hotel. Grace has emailed me her favorites, but there are others I like better, and I want to be prepared to fight for them.

I get immersed in my work, stopping only because there's a knock at my door. It opens to Grace, who's in the sexy as fuck dress she wore for the press conference. It's not intended to be sexy, but it's on her, so it is.

"I just wanted you to know I dropped the stuff for Trev's potluck off at the school this morning."

"Oh. Thanks."

That's it? That's what I'm going to say after everything that's happened today? She waits for me to say more, but I can't seem to get my mouth to work.

"Okay, well, have fun tonight."

She walks out, and I bang my head on my desk. I wasn't planning to grab the boys for another half hour, but I need them now. I should have said something about today, and what she's going through. I should've told her I made a mistake at Connor's party. I should've told her I love her too. Instead, I let her walk away, thinking I don't care.

I put it all out of my head as I drive to the school, and walk the boys inside. Their librarian, Mrs. Streets, greets us, and takes us into her office to get the dinner and dessert Grace dropped off. She went above and beyond, and my feelings of remorse about the way I've handled things come back full force.

"Those look good," Trevor says.

"They sure do," she agrees.

I say nothing as I carry the tray of mini Shepherd's Pies, while Trevor carries the dessert bars. Connor carries the silver plastic forks and napkins Grace dropped off as well. She thought of everything, because of course, she did.

"Homemade food for once, huh?" one of the obnoxious fathers says as we put them down. I always feel bad for his wife, because he's such an ass.

"Yep," Trev says, not realizing the guy wasn't really asking.

"Did your boss make them?"

"Our _friend_ , Grace, made them, yes."

"Friend? I saw her on TV, and I must say, I'd hit that too."

"You shouldn't hit Grace," Connor says, and I rub my face, because I don't want to explain this to my five-year-old.

"Matt Corrigan's wife is hot, so I can't imagine him straying. Miles though, with his wife pregnant, I don't blame him one bit."

"What did you just say?" Luke asks, coming to join our little circle as the rest of the room goes quiet.

"You know it's true. The junior Corrigan's wife is huge."

"I love my job, but if you say one more word about my niece, or her friend, I'm going to knock you out."

"Niece? Wait, you're one of _those_ Griffins."

"Yes."

"A billionaire's teaching my kid? This is priceless. Can you get your brother to do a sculpture for my house?"

"No."

"Why not? I have money."

"No one in my family needs your money, and I'm going to suggest you leave now."

"I could get you fired."

"And I could have my family ruin you."

"Asshole. I'm getting my kid out of your class."

"Please do."

He storms off, and the mood in the room changes almost immediately. We have a fun time, but I can tell something's bothering Trevor. I wait until I'm tucking him in for bed to mention it, because I know he wouldn't want any extra attention on him.

"I'm sorry that guy upset you."

"He didn't. I mean, he did, but that's not why I'm upset."

"Oh. Well, what's wrong."

"You didn't stick up for Grace. That guy said things about her, and you didn't tell him anything. Luke told him to stop saying things about her and Alex, but you didn't. I wanted to, but you said I should respect adults, so I kept quiet, but you did too."

"I didn't want to fight with him."

"Grace is worth fighting for. She brought stuff for me, even though you made her cry. She's my friend, and even if she's not yours, it's not okay to let someone say things about her."

"You're right."

"Can you put her on the daycare list, so I can call her, or she can come see me? Con, too?"

"Yes. I can do that."

I kiss his forehead, and walk out, feeling like shit because my kid just had to school me on being a decent man. I've always prided myself on being a good guy, but lately, I haven't been. What kind of example am I showing him and his brother by running from the woman I love? One I wouldn't want to be friends with, that's for sure.

# 17

Grace

I chose a sleeveless, black jumpsuit that hits my calves, to wear to work today. I thought I'd be meeting with the restaurant guy, but Matt had other plans. He and Miles met with the man by themselves, and also the female employee who betrayed me. I don't like being left out, but they're the bosses. They promised to give me a full report after my meeting with Miles and Keir, so there's that, at least.

I'm looking forward to getting this meeting over with. I've already chosen the pics, so this is just a short timeline planning session. Once again, when I get to Miles office, Keir is already there, and they are looking over pictures without me.

"This is becoming a pattern."

"Keir was just going over some of the other photos with me."

"I chose the best ones."

"What you think are the best ones. You know I disagree," Keir tells me.

"I'm the head of this project, and what I chose fits the vision I have."

"I don't want to contradict you, Grace, but some of the pictures Keir showed me are much better for the campaign."

"Really? This is how it's going to be? Cut out the woman, because the men know best?"

"No, Grace. You know better."

"I thought I did. I thought this company was different, but it's not. The men stick together, and then stick it to you when you give your opinion."

"Grace, please sit down, and we'll discuss this. It's just some pictures."

"No, it's more than that. It's too much more. It's all too much. I trusted you, Miles. I thought you believed in me."

"I do."

"You wouldn't have been in here before me today, or meeting alone last time, if you did. I can't work for someone who doesn't trust me to do the job."

"Grace?" Miles says, standing and moving towards me as I back up.

"I quit."

"No!"

I turn, and practically run from the room. I know Miles is following me, and I know the whole floor is watching, but I don't care. I push open my door, and hear Ethan try to stop Miles before it closes.

"You can't quit."

"I just did."

"Be reasonable, Grace. You know his pictures are better. You're letting your personal feelings interfere with your professional job."

"I will give you two weeks, but I'd like to spend them in New York. Give me an empty office in the C&C building there, and I'll work remotely."

"You can't leave."

"Yes, I can. Either today, or after two weeks in New York. You choose."

"Look at me. Please."

"I can't. I can't look at you, Miles."

"Alex is due in a month. Don't do this to us."

"I will work my ass off, and get everything done, so nothing will fall on you. Two weeks should be enough time to find someone else."

"I don't want someone else."

"It doesn't feel that way."

"You know those pictures are better. Maybe I shouldn't have met with him without you, but you know it's true."

"Please leave me alone."

"I'll arrange an office for you, and a jet will be ready when you get to the airport."

I'm barely holding on right now, so I don't say anything else. He stays for another minute, before leaving on a sigh. I hear Ethan tell Keir he can't see me as the door closes. I wanted this life for so long, but now I want it to be over. I want to go home.

Before I can, I have to get everything set up for my move. I call Ethan in, and explain that I'm quitting, but want him to help me from here for the next two weeks. I know he'll be okay, but I'll miss the kid. I call my housekeeper, and let her know I'm going out of town, and stop my mail. I should go home and pack, but I don't, because I can get what I need in New York. Taking one last look around my office later in the day, I turn off the lights, and walk out.

I've ignored the texts coming from Alex and Keir all day. I'm too raw right now to talk to my friend about leaving, or my ex-lover about how he's still hurting me. I just want to leave this city I pinned my hopes and dreams on, and go back to the place that shaped me, and the people who love me.

Keir

I've never felt this panicked before. Grace just quit her job because of me, and she's leaving. Leaving C&C, and leaving Las Vegas. I fought for my pictures instead of her, and now it's really and truly over. All of it.

"What did you do?" Ainsley asks, walking into my house with Sierra hot on her heels.

"Is Daddy in trouble?" Connor asks, his eyes wide.

"So much trouble. Auntie Si is going to hang out with you while I talk to your daddy, okay?"

"Okay," Trevor answers.

I stand and follow Ainsley into my bedroom, shutting the door. I don't want the boys to know Grace is gone yet, so the living room is out.

"She and I disagreed on what pictures to use for the hotel marketing, and Miles took my side."

"There's got to be more to it than that."

"I didn't handle the situation well, and neither did Miles. We discussed it without her...twice. She lost it the second time, and quit."

"Were the photos you wanted to use that much better than the ones she chose?"

"Yes, and no. Hers would work perfectly well in the campaign she created, but I know mine would make it exceptional."

"You should've all met together to discuss it. Cutting her out of the discussion is bullshit."

"We know."

"It's not fair to anyone for her to quit. She deserves her job, and also the respect the two of you didn't give her."

"I already said we know we were wrong."

"You say it, but you don't mean it. You still think you did the right thing."

"This is my chance, Sis. My chance to prove myself, and have my job with Corrigan extended. Why is it so wrong for me to have done everything I could to keep it?"

"It's wrong because you aren't some cutthroat asshole who throws a woman under a moving bus to further his career. I expect you to fight for what you think is best, but not by cutting out your direct boss. That's a ducking misogynistic asshole move."

"I'm not misogynistic."

"In this, you were."

"Maybe."

"Yes, not maybe."

"Fine, okay? I already told you Miles and I know we screwed up. Me more than him, because I lost her in all aspects of my life. Have you thought about how hard it is for me to take a look at what I did, and still be able to live with myself? Not just at work, but at Con's party?"

"I'm glad you're finally admitting it, and making it better will go a long way to make you feel better too."

"You were right. About me holding on to anger, and the feelings Jacky left me with. There's no love there, but there's still hurt. Or there was. When Grace said she was quitting, and Miles told me she's leaving for New York, I let it go. I felt it almost like it was a weight I was pushing off my soul.

"I love Grace like I never loved Jacky, and yet I judged her on how I felt when Jacky left. No matter that Grace is nothing like her, and was there for the boys even after I hurt her, I still held her to the mistakes of my past. I wish it didn't take losing her to make it happen, because fuck if I know how to get her back now."

"I'll help you."

"Not this time. I love you, but this time, I need to do it alone. She has to see that I'm willing to struggle and fight for her. For _us_."

"Yeah, I think she does."

Grace

"Go home, Grace," my mom says, pushing the bread basket towards me. We're at our favorite neighborhood place, and I was hoping for some motherly advice, but I didn't expect what I'm getting.

"Wow. You know most mothers would want their child to stay with them."

"Not when she's making a mistake."

"I told you everything, and you only get that I'm to blame?"

"No. I believe the men in your life are 99% to blame, but I also believe you won't find a better job than the one you're leaving. You know how to work among men who don't value you, and while I don't think that's exactly the case here, you'll survive. Your father and I raised you to survive."

"I quit."

"We didn't raise a quitter, either."

"I came home for support."

"That's what you're getting."

"I wanted a hug, not tough love."

"You got a hug when you walked in."

"I'm not going to beg for my job back."

"Maybe you won't have to. All I'm saying is that if you're given the offer to keep it, don't turn it down."

"I'll think about it."

"Good. Now, tell me more about these little boys."

Keir

"You're not really going to let her go, are you?" I ask Miles when I enter his office the next day.

"I can't make her stay."

"I know, but we can't just do nothing."

"I have a baby on the way, and several other divisions to run, so excuse me if I wish you'd done something before she left."

"This isn't all on me."

He rubs a hand over his hair. "No, it's not, and I'm sorry for saying that. We've already know we fucked up, and I'm pretty sure having her name dragged through the mud by the media didn't help things, but all I can control now is her work environment. The rest is up to you."

"I know. There has to be a way to get her back to Vegas. If she's here, I can grovel more effectively."

"As can I."

"So, what do we do?"

"Nothing yet, but only because Matt says I can't reach out to her until he talks to her."

"Matt's talking to her?"

"He's on a plane as we speak. Keep your fingers crossed, because if he can't get through to her, and let her know how important she is to this company, I don't know who can."

Grace

I'm standing at the windows in my borrowed office, staring out at the Manhattan skyline. The lights glitter like diamonds, but it's different lights I wish I was seeing right now. Colored lights, a pyramid whose light can be seen from space, and a mini Eiffel Tower.

"I had a feeling I'd find you here."

I turn at the sound of Matt's voice, knowing this day was coming, but not wanting it here yet. "You're here with my exit paperwork?"

"No."

"No?"

"I was going to tell you that if you say you're quitting, you need to mean it."

"But now you know I meant it."

"The question is whether you still mean it."

"That's a complicated question to answer."

"Good. I'm not looking for a yes. Talk to me, Grace."

I look back at the window, gaining courage from the lights out there, while knowing Matt's watching my reflection. "Over the years, I've missed family vacations, family celebrations, and even my grandmother's funeral, because I knew I couldn't look weak. I couldn't take time off, I couldn't cry when I got devastating news, and I couldn't ever let the men around me have any reason to take a shot at me."

"That would never happen at my company."

"I thought so too, and I was so happy to job there. I felt valued, and respected, until I didn't anymore."

"I've seen all the photos, and we both know Keir's choices are better."

"It wasn't about the photos," I admit.

"It was about them meeting without you, and my brother taking his side over yours without hearing you out. He would've still chosen those pictures, because every project needs to be our best, but you deserved to be treated better. He knows it, and it's killing him."

"The first time I saw them looking over the pictures without me, I was hurt. The second time was worse, because of everything that happened the day before. All the accusations I know some people still believe, even though it's blown over in the media, and how raw I was over being put through that. Not being allowed to face the man who tried to destroy me, and then walking in on two men I once trusted working against me...it was too much, Matt."

"I apologize, because I was trying to protect you by not having you in the meeting with that asshole. I have a wife who is strong and independent, so I _do_ know better, and I have no excuse other than wanting to spare you more ugliness."

"Apology accepted. I appreciate your concern, even if it wasn't needed."

"Come back, and let Miles apologize."

"It's not just Miles I'll have to face. How do I tell Keir I was being petty?"

"You just tell him. From what I can tell, he's been more of an ass to you than you've been to him."

"He has, but it hasn't messed with my job."

"Really? I seem to remember his ex-wife coming after you publicly."

"Yeah, and since we're having this little therapy session, I'm going to tell you I wanted him to stand up for me."

"I can't speak for him, so I don't know what he's thinking. He looks like shit, if that's any consolation."

"It might be if I knew it was because of me."

"You're going to make me bring out the big guns, huh?"

"A raise?"

"You can have a raise, but I have something better."

"Better than a raise?"

He reaches into his suit jacket, and pulls out two handmade cards. Before I even see the words or pictures, I know who they're from. He wasn't kidding about bringing something big enough to make me go back. I would face a dragon for Trevor and Connor Martin, so facing two men who hurt me doesn't seem so daunting right now.

"Tomorrow is Family Celebration Night for the daycare center. We have them every quarter, celebrating every kind of family who uses the center. The boys are sharing a table for their family, and they would really appreciate you taking the last seat."

"This is low, Matt."

He throws his hands up in the air, like he's innocent in all of this. "Don't blame me, because you made those boys fall in love with you."

I take the cards from him, running my hand over the fronts, where Connor has drawn me a Wonder Woman and lots of hearts, and Trevor has carefully printed my name along with "X"s and "O"s. Inside each is a printed invitation to the dinner, glitter, Wonder Woman symbols, and more love. So much love, and there's no way I'm going to ignore it.

"Take me to your plane, Boss."

# 18

Keir

While the boys are at C&C, helping to decorate for a special family dinner tonight, I'm picking up my parents from the airport. Ainsley offered, but I need to talk to them... or really, my mom. My dad told me to marry Grace when he met her, and not just because she was dressed as a superhero. He saw what everyone who gets to know her sees—the exceptional woman who has the biggest heart, and enough love for a man and his two sons to share.

"I love that Matthew Corrigan does this for his employees," my mom says when we're on our way to Ainsley's house, where they're staying for the weekend.

"He's great."

"Are we going to see your photos while we're here?" My dad asks.

The dreaded photos that cost us all so much? I'd like to burn them at this point, but I can't. "Sure."

"I'm going to make dinner on Sunday, because you all need a home-cooked meal."

My mother says it like I don't feed my boys, and it sets me off. "If I hadn't listened to you about Grace, they'd be having one every night."

"She's not right for you. Especially after all that news coverage."

My dad sits up straight in the passenger seat, and looks at me like I've lost my mind. "What? Is that what happened at the party? Please tell me you've fixed things with her, Son."

"Things are worse than ever between us, but she still made dinner and dessert for Trev's potluck last week."

"You asked her to do that after you hurt her?"

"No. Trev called, and asked her. She didn't hesitate to say yes to him."

"I didn't know," my mom says, and I can hear the remorse in her voice.

"I did, but I still listened to what you said, and hurt us all."

"How can we help you fix it?"

"If someone could get her back to Vegas, maybe I'd have a chance."

"She's not here?"

"No."

I tell them everything, and by the time we reach Ainsley's house, I've been swatted on the back of the head by both of them. They've also changed their flights, so they can watch the boys while I fly to New York tomorrow, and try to earn back a place in Grace's life. Tonight is about my boys, but tomorrow will be about all of us.

Grace

Finding the perfect dress to wear for a dinner you're a special guest at is harder than it seems. I could've called Stella, but I wanted to put in the extra effort for the boys. I finally settle on a bright pink dress, completely covered in fabric flowers that get bigger from top to bottom. I manage to get shoes in the same color, and decide my diamond studs are the only jewelry I need. I curl my hair into soft waves, showcasing the various shades, and put on a minimal amount of makeup. I feel pretty, as I walk out the door, and drive to C&C.

Walking into the cafeteria, I feel like I've been transported into a fantasy land. There are dragons, fairies, twinkling lights, and lots of flowers. Professional decorations are seamlessly mixed with ones the children have created. The various tables have been replaced with large rounds that seat ten each, and there's a dance floor in the middle of the large room.

As usual, I feel Keir before I see him, and head in the direction my body tells me to go. Just as Matt said, there's only one seat left at the table, and it's in between Trevor and Connor. There are two small bouquets of flowers tied with ribbons at the place setting, and I want to run and claim them, but I force myself to walk slowly over to them.

I'm only a few feet away when Keir looks up. His eyes widen when he sees me, and he says my name. "Grace."

Trevor jumps out of his chair first, and I kneel down to take his hug. "You're here! Matt said he'd bring you, but I didn't know if you'd come."

"He said he'd throw you over his shoulder if you wouldn't come, but I told him you'd punch him like Diana would," Connor adds.

"I would've punched him if he'd done that, but I didn't come here because of him. I came here because my two favorite boys made me the best invitations ever."

They are so adorable in their little bow ties, button downs, suspenders, and pressed pants. I want to hold onto them forever, and forget all the problems I still have to face, but I know I can't. I can pretend for one night, though.

"We're your favorites, Pretty?"

"Who else would be?"

"Not Daddy," Trevor says, and I stifle a laugh as Keir curses.

I decide to take a little bit of pity on him, because I still owe him an apology. "Your daddy is a man, so he wouldn't be one of my favorite _boys_."

"Do I qualify?"

I look up to see Ethan standing over us with a smile on his face. He holds out a hand to help me to my feet, and pulls me into a tight hug.

"You're definitely a close third, E."

"Are you back for good?"

"We'll talk about that later. Save me a dance?"

"I'll save you two."

His face is bright red even before I kiss him on the cheek, and send him back to his own family. When I turn back to my own my table, Keir's dad grabs me into a big hug. "It's good to see you, Grace."

"You too."

I get and give hugs to Zack, Ainsley, Sierra, and Joel, ignoring the other two people who are seated here, because I'm not getting into it with them in front of the boys. Trevor holds out my chair for me, and Connor places my napkin on my lap. They each hand me a bouquet, revealing a silver Wonder Woman cuff beneath them.

"Is this for me?"

"Yep. We got to pick one gift online for up to $25, so we combined our money for you," Trevor tells me.

"Do you like it?" Connor asks.

"I love it," I say, putting it on my right wrist, before hugging them both again. "The flowers are beautiful, too. I'm very honored to be your guest tonight."

"Do you want your food now? We're going to get if for you, because we know what you like."

"I'll carry the heavy plate," Trevor adds.

"I would love some food. Thank you."

The boys scamper off, and I turn my attention to Keir and his mother. "I am very aware of your low opinion of me, Mrs. Martin, and that Keir agrees with you about me staying away, but I couldn't do it tonight. Those little boys want me here, so I'm here, and the two of you need to pretend you're at least okay with it. For them."

"My opinion of you is actually quite high right now, and I'd like to apologize for what I said to my son at Connor's party. I'm over-protective of my boys, and I was afraid you'd hurt them. I know I ended up hurting all of you instead, and I am truly sorry."

You could knock me over with a feather, and I feel a lump in my throat that wasn't there a moment ago. I swallow past it to answer her. "Thank you."

The boys come back with two plates filled with some of my favorite foods, but I wait to dig in until everyone else has food. Keir takes them to get theirs, and I have a moment alone to try and calm my breathing. Keir's mom isn't against us, so the only thing standing between us is _us_.

Keir

I watch Grace as she laughs and eats with my sons, answering their questions, and listening to them talk about what they've been doing since she saw them at Connor's party. She never gets irritated with them, or tells them they're talking too much. She ruffles their hair, and kisses their cheeks, and none of it is fake, or forced. I took this away from them, and I curse myself again for being a coward.

"Can you come over tonight, and I can open my presents, Pretty?"

"Which presents, Con?"

"My birthday presents you gave me. I didn't want to open them without you."

Her hand flies to her mouth, and I see tears glisten in her eyes. "My sweet boy...I mean, you're such a sweet boy. Not mine, just...excuse me."

She gets up from the table, and practically runs outside. The boys start to wiggle out of their chairs, but I tell them to stay. It's my turn to take care of Grace. Long past my turn, but I'm not going to make the same mistakes again.

As I make my way to the patio door, Ethan steps into my path. "Leave her alone."

"I'm trying to make things right."

"I won't allow you to hurt her again. She's breaking, and you can't completely break her. You just can't."

"I promise you, I'm trying to heal the cracks I made."

"Why now? Why not when she was being attacked by your ex-wife, your mother, the world?"

Tegan places her arm around him, and kisses his cheek. "E, let him go. He needs to give Grace those answers."

"If she comes back in here crying, I'm going to kick your ass."

"Understood."

I step outside, and hear the glass going opaque as I close the door. My sister is a goddess, and I'm going to tell her that once we're back inside.

"What do you want, Keir?" Grace asks, looking out over the city.

"How did you know it was me? My cologne?"

She shakes her head. "I always know when you're close."

"Same."

"You didn't answer my question."

"I needed to see you, and tell you some things. I got stopped by your smitten assistant on my way out, or I would've been here sooner," I tell her, going to stand next to her at the enclosed railing.

"Ethan is one of the only people who saw me break down after the press conference, so he's a little protective."

"I should've been there."

She shrugs. "You should be where you want to be."

"Next to you is where I always want to be, but I've done a fucked-up job of showing it."

"I wouldn't hurt those boys. Ever."

"I know you wouldn't. They're your boys, and they need you."

She shakes her head. "They're not mine. I shouldn't have said that."

"The hell they aren't! Those boys have belonged to you from the moment you picked Connor up, and held Trevor's hand at the game. They are yours, and if you still want me, so am I."

"I owe you an apology for the photos. I picked ones that weren't your best, because I wanted to punish you. You hurt me more than I've ever been hurt in my life, and didn't stand up for me after it, and I wanted you to hurt too. I couldn't do it personally, so I tried to do it with work. That was completely unprofessional, and morally wrong."

"You think I didn't hurt? The boys are the only things that kept me going most days. Seeing you, and not being able to hold you, kiss you, touch you...talk to you. Don't you know what that did to me?"

"No. How would I? How would I know you cared at all? You didn't talk to me, you didn't stand up for me when your ex said I was a slutty, bad influence on your sons. So tell me, Keir, how the fuck would I know?"

Shit. "You didn't."

"I'm tired of fighting, Keir. For you, for respect, for _everything_. I'm just so tired."

"Let me fight your battles for you."

"I don't need you to fight them _for_ me. I need you to fight _with_ me."

"I would be honored to stand at your side."

"For how long?"

"Forever. I love you, Gracie."

"I need time to think."

I want to hear her say she loves me, but she's already done that, and I treated her like shit. I'll give her whatever she needs to figure out I'm all in with her, and I'm not changing my mind. I can't completely hate Jacky, because she gave me my boys, but what I felt for her once is nothing like what I feel for Grace now. Not even close.

# 19

Grace

I can do this. I can do this. I can do this. If I repeat it to myself enough, maybe I'll believe it.

It's the morning after the party, and I'm standing outside Miles and Alex's condo, working up the nerve to ring the doorbell. I'm still on their guest list, so I was able to park, and come upstairs, without being announced, but I can't bring myself to do the final thing I need to do.

The door opens, and Alex pulls me into a hug. "I was trying to wait for you to work up the nerve, but I needed to hug you more."

"I'm sorry I left."

"Nope. You don't get to do that."

"Do what?" I ask with a laugh.

"Apologize for standing up for yourself."

"I over-reacted."

"I shouldn't have ever put you in that position to begin with," Miles says.

I didn't notice him sitting on the couch, because Alex had all my attention, but I can't ignore him as he gets to his feet. "Hi."

"I'll leave the two of you alone, but you better come find me before you leave," Alex tells me, hugging me once more.

"Do you want some water?" Miles asks me, once she's headed upstairs in their elevator.

"Sure."

I follow him into their kitchen, sitting on one of the stools at the island. He puts the glass in front of me, and takes a seat at my side. "I'm sorry, Grace. You have to know I didn't do it because you're a woman, or even because I was trying to exclude you."

"Why _did_ you do it?"

"I saw how hard it was for you to be around Keir. I saw how much that press conference took from you. And mostly, I saw how you worked harder than everyone to make my life easier. I wanted to give something back to you, and I thought taking the hotel pictures off your plate was that thing."

"And his choice of pictures was better."

"There's that too," he agrees with a smile.

"I was completely unprofessional."

"You wouldn't have let us use your pictures."

"You don't know that."

He smiles again. "When someone quits, the IT team goes through their computer, and email. I saw the draft email you'd composed, telling me you'd changed your mind about the pictures."

"I didn't send it. I don't even know if I ever would have."

"Well, I'm choosing to believe you would."

"I put you in a bad position, and while Matt said I could have my job back, I want you to be sure."

"Grace, your job has always been yours and yours alone. HR doesn't even know you quit."

"But the computer, and going to New York..."

"Ainsley went through your computer for me," he admits. "As for New York, you were just on another trip for me."

"I don't know what to say."

"Say you'll forgive me for being an ass, and give Keir another chance."

"It would be his third."

"So, he's not out yet."

"No, Mr. Baseball, he's not. And you're forgiven."

"Perfect. Are you hanging out?"

"Just for a few minutes. I have some boys to see."

"And their dad?"

"And their dad."

We hug it out, before I find Alex in her library and fill her in on everything. She tells me to go for everything I want, and that's exactly what I intend to do.

The next door I find myself outside of also opens before I can ring the bell, but this time, it's because they were watching for me. I know, because Connor tells me, and it makes me hug them even tighter.

"Grace is here," Trevor tells Keir as we walk inside.

"I heard. Hi, Gracie."

"Hi, Kei. Thanks for inviting me to lunch."

"Dinner too, Pretty?"

"We'll see," I say, but Keir's twinkling eyes let me know he's fully aware I won't say no to more time with them. _All_ of them.

I'm led into the kitchen, where every kind of sandwich fixing is laid out on the counter. Meats, cheeses, different breads and rolls, and a variety of toppings and condiments. I wasn't sure what they were going to do for the lunch they promised me, since they can't cook, but this is perfect.

"Someone remembered I like cucumbers on my sandwiches," I tell them with a smile.

"Daddy! Daddy remembered," Connor informs me.

"I remember everything you like, Gracie."

"Daddy can make you a grilled cheese too, if you want. We bought a thing," Trevor explains, pointing to an electric sandwich maker.

"If anyone wants a grilled cheese, I'll make one on the stove."

"Nope. You are not cooking for us today," Keir insists.

"Even if I stay for dinner?"

"Even then. We can order in."

"Or you could cook with me tonight."

"If that's what you want."

Want? I want to shove him up against the fridge, and run my hands up his tight t-shirt, and down his loose jeans. That's what I want.

"Yes." It comes out a little breathless, and I watch his eyes darken.

"Yay! You're staying, Pretty?"

"I'm staying, Con."

Keir

After lunch, I bring Con's presents from Grace into the family room, and we all sit on the floor while he opens them. The gifts are a mix of educational toys, games, and Wonder Woman stuff. He loves it all, especially the sword and shield. He got seven of the sets from other party guests, but he insists this set is his favorite, because it's from Grace. I totally get it, kid.

"Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" he says, climbing on her lap, and giving her a kiss.

"You're welcome."

"My birthday is in four months, and three days," Trevor tells her.

"I can't wait."

"You'll be there?"

"Where else would I be?" she asks, leaning over to kiss his forehead.

It takes every ounce of self-control I didn't know I had to not just pick her up and slam her into the wall for a mind-blowing kiss. Even with my kids here, I want to do it, and honestly, I think they'd cheer me on. But, I'm always going to be a father first, so kissing will have to wait until later.

"What are we having for dinner?" Con asks.

"You daddy knows how to grill, so he can make us steaks, and I'll make mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese. If that works for you, Keir."

She works for me, especially when I know she's giving me an out on the kitchen cooking. "Sounds perfect."

"I'll go to the store, and get everything while you guys clean up, and maybe take a nap."

"I could go."

"Nice try, but you're not getting out of the cleanup."

"I wasn't trying to."

"Uh-huh."

We both laugh until Connor stops us. "Daddy, come over here and give Grace a kiss. You haven't given her one today."

"Yeah, Daddy!" Trevor adds.

"I'm not sure Grace wants a kiss from me."

"One kiss would be nice."

I crawl across the floor as Con scrambles out of her lap. I know the boys are watching, and it's actually pretty amusing. Taking her face in my hands, I give her a quick peck on the lips.

"Just one," I whisper.

"Maybe two."

Smiling, I kiss her like I mean it, but don't let my tongue out to play, because of the kids. She grips my forearms, and tilts her head, kissing me back. I could stay right here forever, and be happy.

"Later."

"Kisses only."

"You're the boss."

"Only at work, Kei. Here we share the job."

"Whatever you want."

Grace

My trip to the grocery store is easy enough, and I get back to Keir's house in less than an hour. Using the key he gave me, I let myself in and put the groceries away. I go upstairs to check on the boys, and find then both in Trevor's room. They're curled up on his double bed with Keir between them. The scene is too cute not to record, so I pull out my phone and take a pic.

After quietly making my way back downstairs, I decide to take my own nap. Stretching out on the comfy couch in the family room, I tuck my hands under my head, because there are no throw pillows around here. It doesn't take long before I fall into a deep sleep.

I wake up to whispers, and different sets of feet trying to walk carefully nearby. When I crack my eyes open, Keir is trying to quietly get the steaks ready. He glances over when he makes a little more noise than he planned on, and smiles when he sees I'm awake.

"Hey there, Gracie."

"Hi."

"She's awake!" Connor yells.

"I am," I reply with a laugh.

"We tried to be quiet," Trevor says.

"You could've gone in my room to sleep, Pretty!"

"Or mine," Keir adds.

"I didn't want to invade your private spaces without permission."

"You don't need permission to go anywhere in this house."

"Unless we're peeing. Other people shouldn't watch you pee," Connor informs me.

"I agree."

"Can I help you with the food? Daddy says only Trev can help him with the grill, because he's bigger."

"I would love some help, Con."

Once Keir has the steaks ready, he heads outside with Trevor. Connor helps me fill the two pots we need with water, and then we wait for them to boil.

"My daddy's sorry, Pretty."

I still the glass I was raising to my lips, and look over at him. "For what?"

"For making you cry, and not letting you come over. He misses you. Did he tell you that?"

"Not exactly."

"Did he tell you he was sorry?"

I think back to our conversation on the patio, and shake my head. "No."

"You let him kiss you, so I know you still like him."

"Yes."

"He needs to say sorry, and tell you he misses you, and then you can be his girlfriend, and come over every day again."

"It might not be that easy."

"Why not?"

Keir chooses that moment to open the door. "Are you interrogating Grace?"

"I don't know what that means."

"Are you asking her lots of questions?"

"Not lots. Just if you said sorry, but you didn't. If you tell her you're sorry, and miss her, she might be your girlfriend again."

He looks at me with his brows scrunched together. "I apologized."

"No. I did, but you didn't."

"I didn't? I thought I did."

"You explained everything, but you never said the words. But, it's okay. I don't need the words."

"You deserve the words. I'm sorry, Gracie, for everything I did and didn't do."

"Apology accepted."

"Now, tell her you miss her," Connor reminds him.

Trevor opens the door to tell him the grill is smoking, so he looks at me with a smirk. "Later."

"I'll be waiting."

"He's almost got it done," Connor tells me, rubbing his hands together.

I ruffle his hair, because he's too damn cute. "We have dinner to finish, kiddo. No more talk about your daddy right now."

# 20

Grace

I wake up with my hand around Keir's cock, and his on my breast. Our clothes are on, but somehow during the night, our hands decided this platonic sleepover was bullshit. The two boys who just jumped on the bed kill any sexy thoughts I may have, but I smile anyway.

"Good morning."

"Is it time for waffles yet?" Trevor asks.

He and his brother convinced me to spend the night, because they never got their waffles. They also insisted I sleep in Keir's bed, because that's what adults who like each other do. Charming little matchmakers, those too. Luckily, Keir let me borrow a t-shirt and boxers, so I'd have something to sleep in.

Keir groans. "There's this thing called sleep. Maybe you two have heard of it."

"Waffles!" Con yells.

"How about you give your daddy and me a few minutes to wake up, and we'll meet you in the kitchen?"

"Okay," Trev says, pulling Connor out with him.

"Was I dreaming, or was your hand down my briefs when I woke up?"

"You weren't dreaming."

"I love my kids. I really do," he says with a groan.

"At least you have clothes."

"Give me a few minutes to make myself presentable, and I'll run over to Target and get you something. If that's okay. I don't know if you shop there."

"Is there anyone who doesn't shop at Target? And, I shop everywhere for clothes. Brands don't matter to me, although I'll admit to buying a few pairs of shoes because of the designer. I break those out when I want to feel extra confident at work."

"I love it when you share your secrets with me."

"Keep me around, and you might here a few more."

"I'd keep you forever, if you'd let me."

"I might."

"I missed you."

"Took you long enough to admit it," I tease.

"I'll be happy to show you how much when we're alone."

"I'll hold you to that."

"I'd rather have you holding my cock again, but a cold shower's calling my name."

"Your sons are going to be calling mine if I don't get out there and make their waffles."

"Thank you."

"You're welcome."

I wrap my hair into a bun, use the bathroom, and brush my teeth before finding my two little guys waiting for me in the kitchen. There's a Star Wars waffle maker, and a box of mix on the island between them.

"We need a measuring cup, eggs, water, and vegetable oil, too."

Once they've run around to grab everything, I have them help me measure and pour. We each take a turn with the mixer, and then it's the fun part. They're both on the island watching closely as I pour the batter into the shape of a droid, and close the lid.

"How long?" Trevor asks.

"Just a few minutes."

"Can I have the first one?"

"You can both have the first one," I say, knowing there will be a fight otherwise. They're sweet boys, but they're still brothers.

The doorbell rings, and before I can stop him, Connor jumps off the island and runs to answer the door. I'm right behind him, and I stop short when I see his grandparents on the other side.

"Hi," I manage to squeak out. "This isn't what it looks like."

"Grace spent the night, and she's making us waffles."

"I think that's exactly what it looks like," Mrs. Martin says.

"Yes, but no. I mean, Keir and I slept in the same bed, but we didn't sleep together. You know what I mean?"

"It's fine, Grace."

"Grace! The waffle is done!"

"I have to get that. Um, come in. Oh wait, it's not my house, but you're Keir's parents. So yeah, come in."

"Breathe," Mr. Martin tells me with a smile.

"I'm trying."

I pull Keir's shirt down as far as possible as I run back to the kitchen. I peel the waffle off, cutting it in two for the boys, before starting on another one. I don't look up, because I'm still completely mortified to be found like this. Especially since I didn't even get any sex last night. I could've, but I had to stand my ground a little bit.

"I'm off to Target for clothes, and whatever else mysteriously lands in my cart!" Keir yells, walking into the kitchen, and immediately stopping in his tracks. "Mom? Dad?"

"Yep, that's us," his dad says.

"We weren't expecting you."

My mother smirks at me. "That's what surprises are about."

"Yeah. I guess so."

"We want to take the boys out for a few hours before we all have dinner at Ainsley's house tonight."

Keir's eyes meet mine, and I see the hope I'm feeling reflected there. An afternoon alone in this house. With his nice big, bed...and shower.

"Would you like a waffle before you leave?"

"I'd love a waffle," Mr. Martin says, his eyes twinkling.

"We can help with dinner, Grandma. We help Grace sometimes," Trevor tells her.

"You've got my boys cooking, Grace?"

"Two of them."

"Hey, I grilled the steaks last night," Keir insists.

"And they were delicious."

Keir

My parents just drove away with the boys, and as soon as Grace closes the front door, I spin her around, and pin her to it with my body. I kiss her like my life depends on it, and she kisses me right back.

"I need to eat."

"You had four waffles."

"They were delicious, but your body is even better. Your _pussy_ is the best. Tell me I can have it."

"Yes."

I pull my boxers off her as I sink to my knees. "Take off the shirt."

She does as I ask, arching her back, and baring her tight nipples to me. I take one in each hand as I lick her wet folds. Her hands cover mine as I pinch her, and lick her until she starts to fuck my face. I let her take over, and slide my fingers down her body and into her as I suck her clit into my mouth, and lave it with my tongue.

She's moving fast, grinding against me as I devour her. I lie back on the floor, bringing her with me so she's riding my mouth. Leaning back, she grips me through my athletic shorts, and strokes as I tongue her to an explosive orgasm. She shakes and screams out her release, tightening her hold on my cock as she comes back down.

"My turn."

She climbs off me, pushing my shorts and briefs down before enjoying her own feast. God, she's good at this, licking, sucking and pumping me just right. "I missed this. Your mouth on me. God, I missed it Gracie."

She smiles around my cock, before moving lower and sucking my balls into her mouth. She's still working me with her hands, and I could die happy right now. Not really, because I want to do so much more to her in the three hours we have. To her, and _with_ her.

Once her mouth's back on my cock, sucking me hard, I realize I don't want it like this. Leaning forward, I lift her up, and guide her onto me.

"I need to come inside of you. I need to feel you come around me, milking my own orgasm from me."

"Take what you need," she tells me, leaning over to brace herself on the floor.

Her tits are in my face, and I take one in my mouth as I use my hands on her hips to guide her to the pace I want. She starts moving with me as I move between her nipples, driving her as crazy as she drives me. I've been without her too long to hold on, and when I come, I come hard, nearly throwing her off me. She's right there with me, taking everything I have to give and giving it all back to me.

"I missed this. I missed everything else, but this...connecting with you like this...it's like nothing I've ever felt in my life."

"I missed it too."

"Tell me how to keep you forever, Gracie. Tell me so I can do it. Anything."

"Show me every day I'm important to you. I don't need grand gestures, just small ones."

"I can do that. I know I haven't show you in the past, so you're probably doubting me, but I promise you I'll show you everything you need me to."

"I believe you. You want my secrets, and this is maybe the biggest one. I want to spend my life with a man who is willing to go outside his comfort zone to make me feel loved and cherished. I want to wake up every day with no doubt in my mind that I'm with the man who will love me, and put me third."

"Third?"

"It used to be first, but then I met your boys, and knew third would be a perfect place to be."

"I love you."

"I love you too. I need you to know that, and also know there's no conditions on my love for you, even if this makes it seem like there is. It's not about that."

"It's about proving to you that I'm willing to be there for you. I get it, and I'll do it."

I don't tell her I'd do it anyway, because I want her to realize it on her own. I also want her to realize she's not third. She's tied for first with my sons, and a big part of that is because she's willing to come in behind them. Her love for them makes my love for her grow stronger every day.

# 21

Grace

"Lover boy just dropped these off," Ethan says, setting a container of sliced cucumbers on my desk.

I smile at the latest of the little things Keir's done over the past two weeks to make sure I know he loves me. He's been leaving me notes, buying me small gifts, and taking care of little things for me. He does my laundry if he sees it in the basket at my place, washed my car last week, and now he's slicing cucumbers for me because I always complain they should sell some that way. He's doing exactly what I asked for, and I'm starting to understand that I didn't need to ask for them. He would've done these things for my anyway.

"Sit down and tell me about your date for the hotel opening tonight."

"You have your meeting with Miles and Keir in ten minutes."

"Plenty of time, Ethan Hall. Sit down, and spill."

"Her name is Evie, and I met her at Downtown Summerlin. She works at the gelato place."

"Go on."

"She's gorgeous. She has curly hair that's lots of shades of brown like yours, green eyes, a curvy body, dark brown skin that's softer than it looks...and she's crazy smart and calls me out when I try to charm my way out of things."

"I like her already."

"She didn't want to come tonight, because she couldn't afford a dress, and wouldn't let me buy her one. My mama visited her, and told her how poor she was when she was my age, and how it's okay to accept help. She brought her to Stella for a dress."

"Make sure you introduce us, okay?"

"Yeah, just don't embarrass me."

"Would I do that?"

"Totally."

"I promise to behave. Now, I really do need to get to my meeting."

We both walk out of my office, with him sitting at his desk while I continue on across the floor. Keir is waiting outside already, and I know this is because Miles and he both promised to never meet without me present. I smile at him as Susan tells me to go inside.

I'm surprised to see Candi Griffin with Miles, but once they explain everything to me, I'm glad she's here. We have Susan send Keir in once everything's ironed out.

"Candi, what are you doing here?"

"Working out a deal that will benefit all of us."

"Okay, I guess."

"It's a good thing," I tell him, motioning for him to sit on the couch next to me.

"Did you just find out?"

"Yes."

"Okay. Lay it on me," he says, sitting with me.

Miles smirks at us both, before speaking. "I love that the two of you have fallen in love, but we prefer to move people out of supervisor/employee situations when it happens. Your observations in Phoenix were spot on, but it's your photography that blew all of our minds."

"Thanks, I think."

"Would you be happy just doing photography?" Candi asks him.

"Yes. I'd love to do it full-time."

"Then I'd like to hire you to be the official Corrigan photographer. I have my hands full with Griffin jobs, plus the others I pick and choose. I've always gotten first refusal on Corrigan work, but I hate saying no to my friends. You would also have the option to take any other jobs I couldn't do."

"They wouldn't want me."

"Once the photography world sees your car photos, along with the hotel ones, they're going to want you."

"What about salary?"

"You'd be making what you make here, plus any bonuses we're given."

"This all sounds great, but they boys love the daycare center here."

"Grace already brought that up, and I assured her they could attend as part of her benefits," Miles tells him.

"Thanks for thinking of them."

"Always."

"I know."

"So, what do you think? We can announce it tonight when we talk about your photos," Candi tells him.

"Yes. I would love to work for you."

"Great. We'll get the paperwork started."

"I'll miss this place."

"You can come by whenever you want. Your pass will still be active."

"Thanks for everything, Miles."

Because he's about to leave the company, I let him take my hand as we walk through the floor, and into my office. There are some curious stares, and Ethan smirks as we walk in, but I don't care. This is my life, and right now I'm really happy with it. After a vigorous round of desk sex, I'm even more happy.

Keir

I'm bringing the boys with us tonight, because it's a big night for me, and I want to share it with them. My parents have promised to watch them so I can continue to romance Grace. She's been staying with us a few nights a week since the night the boys convinced her to stay, and she took care of Con when he had the flu last week, but I want more. All three of us want more, and I want to tell her tonight.

Grace opens the door, looking as stunning as I expected. Her dress is black, and sleeveless. There's a sheer panel on top that flows into a curved neckline and layers of different ruffles to the floor. Her hair is up in a fancy twist, and her only jewelry is the bracelet the boys gave her.

"Hi, Pretty."

"She's not pretty tonight, Con, she's beautiful," Trevor corrects him.

"Exquisite," I add.

"I'll happily take all three words. And look at all of you in your tuxedos, looking so handsome. I'm a lucky lady."

"Our lady."

"Yes, Con, and you're my guys."

I let the boys hug her first, before I kiss her lightly on the lips. She can fix her lipstick in the limo, and even if she couldn't, I have to kiss her. We lean our foreheads against each other's, and smile.

"I'm so happy to be sharing tonight with you. We did a great job."

"Yes, we did."

One more kiss, and then we're all holding hands as we walk to the limo. My little gentlemen help her into the car before climbing in after her. I'm not even mad when they sit on either side of her. The cockblocking only ever lasts until they go to sleep, and then she's all mine.

We walk the red carpet, posing for pictures while questions are called out to us. We ignore them all, because we're not here to talk about the controversy we recently went through. It died as fast as it came to life, and no one who matters wants to resurrect it. As we get to the front door, it comes back full-force.

"My babies."

We all turn as Jacky runs over. The boys look like they're in shock, and Grace clutches their little hands even tighter. I don't know how she got in here, but she needs to leave. Now.

"What are you doing here?"

"I knew you'd bring the boys, and I wanted to see them." She's playing for the cameras that are focused on us, but I'm not having it.

"Why?"

"They're my boys."

"No," Trevor tells her. "We're Grace's boys."

"Trev?" Her lower lip trembles, and if I didn't know her so well, I might feel a little sorry for her.

"She loves us. You left us, and never call or want to see us. Grace cooks for us, and helps me with homework. She took care of Con when he was sick, and makes us behave when we fight."

"Mommy's love you no matter what, and that's what Grace does," Connor adds. "I wish she was my Mommy, but she says you are, and she won't try to take your place."

Trevor isn't done yet. "But she has. She takes care of us. Even when you lived with us, you didn't care. I pretended you did, but I know you didn't."

"Well, I want to now."

It's my turn to speak up for all of us. "It's too late. You gave up your rights, and if these cameras weren't here right now, I'm absolutely sure you wouldn't be here, either. I will always be thankful to you for giving me these boys, but our life no longer includes you. That was your choice, and I thank you for that as well."

"I didn't think you'd find someone."

"Well, I did, and she's everything we need. Go find the life you need, Jacky."

She walks away, and we walk inside. Once the doors close, Grace moves to one of the couches and pulls both boys into a hug.

"Are you okay?"

"Yes, Pretty. We meant it. You're ours, and we're yours."

"I know you said you can't be our Mommy, but I looked it up on Google, and you can be our Step-Mommy if you marry Daddy," Trevor tells her.

"You won't be mean like Cinderella's step-mother, either."

"No, Con, I won't. One day, I might marry your daddy."

"I'm on board with that," I add. "Until then, I was hoping you'd move in with us. I'd like us to look at a house to buy, or have one built. Whatever you want."

"Yes, please!" the boys both yell.

"How can I say no to such a great offer?"

"You can't."

"Yes, Con, she can." Please don't say no.

"But, I won't. We'll look for a house first. If nothing fits, we can build something. I love all of you so much."

I came to this city hoping for a new start, and I found it. I never dreamed I'd find the woman who I'm meant to be with. It was never Jacky, and I meant it when I thanked her for leaving. My life is beginning again, and this time it's going to be forever.

# Epilogue

_O ne month later_

Keir

The door to Grace's loft opens, but it's not Grace standing before me. "Hello, you must be Keir."

"And you must be Mrs. Faulkner."

"Yes," she says, pulling me into a hug. I talked to her on the phone when Grace and I worked things out, but this is the first time I'm meeting her in person.

"Are you Grace's mommy?" Connor asks, stepping around me.

"I am," she tells him, leaning down with her hand out.

He ignores her hand, and launches himself into her arms. "Will you be my other Grammy now?"

I swallow hard, and nod when she looks to me. Jacky's parents never once approved of me, and didn't even come to the hospital when either of the boys were born. They've only known my parents, and Grace raves about how great hers are, so yeah, I want them in our life.

"I would love that, Connor."

"Mine too?" Trev asks.

"Of course," she responds, pulling him into her arms as well.

"Got room for another Pop?" Grace's dad asks, coming to stand with us, and shaking my hand.

"Pop?" Trev asks.

"They call my dad 'Gramps', not 'Pop'" I explain.

"You can be our _only_ Pop!" Connor is jumping up and down as I shake my head.

"Nothing would make me happier."

Grace comes downstairs, rubbing her eyes. Alex went into labor last night, and she stayed up, texting with me sister, until the baby was born. Today, we're going to see her, but Grace doesn't know where. It should be an interesting visit to say the least.

"I see you've all met," she says, kissing the boys on the cheeks, before giving me a soft kiss on my lips.

"They're our Grammy and Pop now, too," Connor tells her, motioning to her parents.

"Why am I not surprised?"

"Because you know how lovable these sweet boys are," her mother says.

"Yes, I do."

"Thank you so much for offering to watch the boys this morning," I tell the Faulkners.

"We're going to have a great time," Mr. Faulkner tells me.

"My keys are on the counter, and Connor's car seat is already in the car. Don't spoil them too much."

"Says the woman who flew them to Disneyland last weekend, 'just because'."

"You didn't have fun?"

"Just making a point," I tell her, putting my hands up in surrender.

"Let's go," she tells me, pulling on my arm as she grabs her purse.

The boys and parents get a last round of hugs and kisses, and then we're on our way. Grace looks at me like I'm nuts when I drive into the C&C parking lot. It's mostly empty, because it's the weekend, but there are still a few cars here.

"Why are we here?"

"Trust me?"

"Always."

I take her hand, and lead us to the elevator Ainsley has waiting. As we descend, I meet her quizzical look with a smile. I'm just the delivery person—and not the messenger—today. When the doors open, I motion her forward.

"Hi," Reina says, hugging Grace.

"Where are we?"

"Our medical ward."

"I didn't know this was here."

"You weren't supposed to, until now."

"Now?"

"Let's go and see Alex, so she can explain."

We follow her down the hall, and into a hospital room that's the size of at least five public hospital rooms. The Society women are all in the room, waiting for us. Grace looks around, and I can tell she's trying to figure out what's going on. Her gaze finally settles on Alex, who motions to a chair next to her bed.

"Hi, Grace."

"Hi."

"You're a little confused right now, and I understand. This floor is only part of what I'm about to tell you. Every woman in here was allowed to tell one family member, but since mine all know, I haven't told anyone yet. You've become like family to me, and unless Keir screws up again, you'll be around us a lot, so I want you to know."

"Know what?"

"What we really do here."

Alex tells her everything about the Society, and how it came to be. Grace asks questions, and Reina provides some of the answers, when Alex isn't sure what to say. Once they're done, Grace has a smile on her face.

"This is so cool. I can't believe it all happens here, without any of us knowing."

"Now you know," Alex tells her.

"Thank you for giving me this honor. I'll protect your secret."

"I know. Now, do you want to meet my girl?"

"Yes, please."

Miles steps forward, and hands the baby girl to Grace, before kissing her on the cheek. She cradles her close, cooing and kissing her. In this moment, I realize I'm ready to have another baby—Grace's baby. I'm not going to mention it right now, but it's definitely a talk we need to have. God knows, the boys will be excited about it. My little family is just about as perfect as it can get, but a baby will make it even better. A wedding might come first, but that piece of paper isn't as important as the love behind it, and right now, I'm full of love.

# Coming Soon

**Look for Haring's book, _Savage Company_ , coming in August!**

# Acknowledgments

**Thanks to my daughters, for inspiring me to write about strong women!**

**Helen Williams, because my covers just get better and better!**

**Lynda Carter, Gal Godot, and Patty Jenkins: you all brought my childhood hero to life in one way or another, and I'll be eternally grateful!**

**And especially to all of my readers, who love my characters as much as I do. Thanks for going on this journey with me!**

# About the Author

Crystal Perkins has always been a big reader, but she never thought she would write her own book, until she sat down and did it one day. She lives in Las Vegas, where you can find her running author events and selling books at conventions when she isn't reading, buying too many Sherlock t-shirts and LulaRoe leggings, or finding a place to put all of her Pop! figurines. In 2016, she won the Creative Initiatives Award from Romantic Times for encouraging literacy, and also the Community Advocate Award from the Clark County School Librarians Association. A mac and cheese connoisseur, she travels the country looking for the perfect version, while attending book conventions and signings as a cover for her research. The Griffin Brothers, Corrigan & Co., and the Society Girls series are all international best sellers, and she's thankful to the readers who made that happen.

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Find her here:

www.crystalperkinsauthor.com

facebook.com/crystalperkinsauthor

@wondermomlv
