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“I love it.” A corner of Holt’s mouth lifted. “It’s like a sanctuary. Maybe I won’t mind doing the business stuff so much in here.”
“Thank you.” My sister-in-law crossed the distance between us and put her arms around me.
With hesitance, I returned the embrace. The squeeze to my neck was gentler this time as I looked to Patrick. He’d taught me to be more affectionate.
“Now we’re ready for the big day,” I said. “What time should I be here tomorrow? Six thirty?”
“Marlow.” Holt spoke my name like a warning. “You can’t be the receptionist.”
“Because I’m getting fat? I’m pregnant, not handicapped.”
Baker stifled a snicker.
“Because you have things to do and—yeah, that’s why.” Holt looked toward his wife for help.
“You’re still mad at me,” I concluded. Patrick had spoiled me by just letting things go. Apparently the rest of my family didn’t feel the same.
Baker squeezed my fingers. “Still stung. But that’s not why.”
I pretended the hurt that seared me didn’t matter. To hell with what they said. I’d show up tomorrow anyway. They’d realize they needed me.
“Sis, you’re not exactly a teddy bear.”
“I can be nice.” I elbowed Patrick in the side. “Tell them I can be nice.”
“She’s not that nice.” He kissed my temple, and I scowled.
“Fine. You think I’ll piss off the customers. I get it.” I probably would, but I wanted to help here for reasons I couldn’t explain.
“We could give it a try. See how it works.”
Holt’s gaze shot to Baker in ahave you lost your ever-loving mindlook. Of all people to stick up for me, I didn’t deserve for it to be her, but I appreciated it nonetheless.
He let out a long sigh. “Trial period. But you can’t make people mad.”
“Blake will make up for anything I say.”
“Unless he calls them an ass,” Patrick said helpfully.
Baker laughed. “I hope I’m here for that if he does.”
“Are you staying on at the magazine?”
“Yeah. I’m learning so much, and I love it there.” Her face turned a happy shade of pink.
“You can hit up your boss for business. Does she have a car?”
I rolled my eyes. Patrick, the enterpriser.
“She has a driver. I’ll talk to him.” She brightened.
Holt scrubbed his forehead. “What if nobody shows up tomorrow? Or the next day? Or the day after that?”
“They’ll come,” I promised, and they all looked at me like I’d lost my mind. “What?”
“When did you start telling me what I want to hear?” He leaned forward and put his elbows on the desk.
“I’m not. I’m being honest.” I shrugged. “So it might not be tomorrow or the next day, but in time, they will.”
