Page 54 of A Bossy Surprise

“That doesn’t matter.”

“Can that be my present? He would like that way more.”

“Then that would mean I would have to give him the world’s greatest dad mug, but he’s not my dad. He’s yours.”

“Not fair.” He folds his arms.

“Well, the world isn’t fair, kid.” I ruffle his hair and he laughs.

Once we have prepared everything that needs and preparing, I grab Noodle and plop her and Brady on the couch in front of a cartoon while I make some work calls.

Once 7 o’clock rolls around, Brady and I head out.

In the Uber, Brady is practically vibrating in his seat. I’m sure 50% of his excitement has to do with celebrating Adam’s birthday with him while the other 50% is purely about the cake.

I on the other hand am more nervous than excited. I fear that Adam might read some sort of meaning into this. Especially with the gift I got him.

Seeing as Adam’s condo is on Lakeside, it takes us a while to get there. When we do, Brady and I are in an equal amount of shock as we gaze up at his apartment building. It’s magnificent. A glass and steel marvel.

I feel so out of place as I approach the building.

I have the cake balanced on one hand and the presents and other supplies in a bag in the other while all the balloons are strapped to Brady’s wrist.

The building is so fancy that it has a doorman. He smiles at us as he opens the door, but it doesn’t stop there. There’s also a lobby attendant.

“Good evening ma’am. Who are you here to see?” The man in a suit and a literal top hat asks.

“Hi. We are here for Adam Grant.”

“Before I let you go up, I have to call just to make sure. What’s your name?”

“I’m Kayla Wood.”

He nods and calls Adam. They have a brief conversation and the man says, “You can head right on up.”

He helps us with the elevator and moments later, we’re stepping into the hallway leading to Adam’s condo and he’s already standing outside his door waiting for us.

The second Brady sees him, he yells, “Happy birthday!” and runs to Adam.

Adam stoops down and hoists Brady into the air.

“Thank you,” he says, genuine gratitude in his voice.

“Happy birthday,” I say when I reach him.

“Thanks, but how did you know that today was my birthday? And that I live here?” I don’t have to answer that question because a second later realization dawns on Adam and he smiles wide. “Lucas?”

“Yeah.”

“Well, you guys should come in.”

He turns around and walks into his condo.

By God, it’s the most beautiful living space I’ve ever seen.

All the drapes have been pulled back, revealing breathtaking views of Cleveland. What I can see of his living area is tastefully decorated with sleek and modern furniture, but in warm and homey tones. Rugs, throw pillows, and afghans are scattered around and draw the space together.

We head into his living room, and I put the cake box on the center table and the gift bag by my side. I start taking the cake out of the box.