Page 93 of The Protection Agreement

“I know what I want.” My voice is low. I know he might not like it, but I’m making my request anyway.

“I’m listening.” His tone is daring.

“I want to go to Vegas for the Data Science Conference.” My tone firm

He folds his arms, trying to stare me down, and I match his stare. I know it’s a big ask with my protection detail and all.

“Okay,” he says.

I’m shocked he said okay. I jump into his arms, raining kisses all over him. “Thank you, thank you, thank you. See, best birthday ever.” I step out of his arms and start doing a happy dance. He watches me with a wild grin.

My laptop rings. It’s Jonah. I race to answer it. Bruce kisses my forehead and walks out.

“Happy birthday, Sprinkles,” he says the moment we connect.

“Thanks, Jonah.” I grin

“What’s the plan for today?”

“Chef promised me a cake, and I’m just going to chill and watch a movie. I went clubbing with Cole A last night, so I’m good.”

“Wait, what? You went clubbing? Was it safe?” His voice pitched high

“Yes, it was, and I got to hang out with Cole A. Best night ever.”

“Still fangirling, I see.”

I laugh.

“Okay, have fun, and call me if you need anything.”

“Bye, Jonah.”

“Bye, Sprinkles. Enjoy your day.” He hangs up. We can’t talk for long.

I call the ladies, thanking each of them for making my birthday fun. They were all gracious and said they were happy too. I leave the room and go to find Bruce in his office. I’m on his lap in seconds.

“Thanks again for saying yes to Vegas,” I say, running my hand through his short hair.

“You’re welcome, and I have something for you,” he says, opening the drawer and bringing out a box. I stare at it and try to shake it.

“Open it, Jola,” he says.

I smile and pull the ribbons apart. It’s a box. I open it and see puzzle pieces and smile at him. The puzzles are sealed in a pack that says four thousand pieces. I take the paper in the box out and see the puzzle picture. I gasp, looking at the picture, tears slowly roll down my face. The picture is the one I keep close to me in my bag. The one with my parents. The only difference is Jonah is photoshopped into the picture. And I love it.

I wrap my arms around him, sobbing. “Thank you so much. I love it. This is the best gift anyone has ever given me,” I mumble through tears.

“Good. I’m happy you like it. You don’t have to keep it hidden in a bag.” I pull him tighter as he soothes me. He cups my face and kisses my forehead.

“Ice will be here soon,” he quietly says. I kiss his lips and jump out of his lap in excitement. I know Ice will be here soon means go and cover yourself up. His t-shirt that I sleep in is barely covering my ass. I keep my gift close, even kissing the box. I head to my room.

In my room, I sit for a moment and gently run my hands over the picture. I admire it again and love that he added Jonah to it. I pack it all up. It’s my next puzzle project. I need to shower and step out. Bruce doesn’t like that I still use my room, but for now it works. Bruce is busy most of the day, but he sends me a text.

Bruce: Be ready. Dinner out with me at seven. Dress comfortably.

I smile after reading the text. I haven’t gone out to dinner in ages.

Chapter fifty-six