“It’s probably early on to broach the subject,” said Sidney, glancing around the huge building, “and I realize this isn’t the time or the place, but have you given any thought to what role you’ll take on in the company?”
“It isn’t the time or the place,” said Cole. “But you’re right to ask the question. Would you be able to meet over the weekend?”
“Absolutely. You just name the time and place.”
Cole took out his cell phone. “If you give me your cell number, I’ll call you later on.”
Sidney dictated his phone number, then bowed out.
“It’s a good question,” said Luca.
“I know,” said Cole as the two men started toward the brightly lit forest.
“Do you have any idea what you are going to do?”
Cole’s thinking hadn’t made it past the first couple of moves. “I’m going to find a permanent president.”
He worked fourteen-hour days taking care of Aviation 58. He had to get back there as soon as possible. But he’d accepted that he now had a role in protecting Zachary’s inheritance.
The closer they got to Amber, the more beautiful she became. No surprise to Cole.
Zachary was in her arms, also dressed in red and white, a goofy little hat on his head. Cole couldn’t help but smile at how Zachary reached for the twinkling lights of the closest tree. He’d really missed the little guy.
But then Amber saw him.
Her smile instantly disappeared, and her blue eyes went cold. She took a step, and it was obvious she was going to flee.
Cole quickly crossed the space between them, wrapping a hand around her arm and keeping her close.
Luca wisely hung back.
“Everybody’s watching,” he cautioned her in a low tone. “Smile. Pretend it’s all good between us.”
“Go away.”
“Not a chance. Smile.”
Zachary zeroed in on Cole.
“Gak baw,” he called, lurching toward Cole.
Cole reflexively reached for him. His arm brushed her breast, and the contact sent a surge of energy through his body.
He ordered himself to calm the heck down. “You heard the decision on the will?”
Amber put a brittle smile in place, but her tone was flat. “Congratulations.”
“We have to talk.”
“I don’t have time. I promised Zachary we’d decorate some gingerbread.” She reached for the baby, but he turned his head, clinging tighter to Cole.
“It’ll be easier if I come with you,” said Cole.
“No, it won’t.”
“I’m on your side.”
She scoffed out a laugh. “Is that a joke?” Then she held out her arms to Zachary. “Come on, pumpkin.”