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I nod. We stand and exit the room.

He takes me to his study, closes the door, and takes a seat. I head to the other leather chair and sit down.

“I want to say how very proud I am of you, Brett.”

“Thank you, Grandfather.”

“You’ve made your way in life without depending on the family money or the family name. You’ve never once come to me for anything. I understand why you’ve waited such a long time to bring someone special to the family, but I want to tell you that I think Rosie is truly admirable. Unique. And I can see the way you look at each other.”

He folds his hands. “Now, I know you know the terms of the trust are coming up soon. My eightieth birthday on Catalina Island will be a celebration not only of my life and my business, but also a time to pass on different inheritances and trusts. And I want you to know if your relationship with Rosie is going the way I think it’s going”—his eyes peer into mine—“then I will very readily sign that trust over to you.”

“I’m not sure what you mean by that. Are you saying⁠—”

“I’m saying that if she is to be your betrothed, she’d be a very welcome part of this family, and I’d be happy to sign over the trust.”

I stare at him for a few seconds.

“A little birdie told me you might be proposing today, but it doesn’t look like that’s going to happen, which might be for the best,” he says. “I don’t know that your parents are ready for you to marry a woman they only met a few days ago.”

“I thought you liked her.”

“Oh, I do like her,” he says. “But you don’t want to make things difficult.”

“Mom is never going to approve of anyone who isn’t from our world.”

“Don’t worry about that. I’ll speak to her, and I’ll speak to your father. I’ve not seen you look this happy in a long time, Brett. Whatever she’s brought into your life, hold it close. It’s very rare to find true love. It’s very rare to find someone who loves you for who you are.”

I nod slowly. Not because I feel guilty about the lie and not because I feel cornered, but because I know what he’s saying is true. Even if she’s not the love of my life, she’s special. Really special. I can feel it deep inside.

“We should go back now though. Everyone will be waiting.” He reaches over and gives me a long hug. “I’m proud of you, my boy. Very, very proud of you.”

* * *

“I can’t believe we’re finally going home,” Rosie says as we drive down the highway. “Your family is intense, but I really like Clara and Blair, and your grandparents are so lovely.”

“So, how are you feeling about everything?”

“I feel like I’m on top of the world right now.”

I glance over at her. “This weekend was amazing, and I hope you enjoyed yourself. I want you to know that making love to you was the highlight, and it wasn’t expected⁠—”

“Look, I want to say something, Brett,” she cuts me off.

“Yes? What is it?”

“I really enjoyed this weekend. I really enjoyed kissing you and making love with you, and I don’t want it to end. And I’m not acting right now. I don’t need this to be forever. I know you can’t do forever. I know your heart may never be open, but I want this.” She plays with her fingers for a few seconds. “For however long it is. For now. For one week, two weeks. We can be casual and have fun, and we can keep being boyfriend and girlfriend for your family until you get your trust.” She pauses. “Say something. What do you think?”

“I think we can do what you’re suggesting.”

I know I’m agreeing far too quickly, but I don’t want this to end.

“Really?” Her eyes widen.

I nod. “As long as we both know this is casual, like friends with benefits, and we’re both enjoying the benefits, then why not?”

“So, we’ll keep sleeping together?”

“I think I’d find it very hard to keep my hands off you,” I say, reaching over to squeeze her leg. “I think you’re one of the sexiest women I’ve ever met in my life.”