Page 10 of His Treasured Mate

“I'm going to need an extensive cost work up and profit plan. I can discuss the feasibility of it with Liam while I'm in town too.”

“That's a good idea, but I honestly think he'll tell you to go for it. It's a solid investment.”

“I know. I've just heard so many horror stories from how quickly things went south last time.”

He nodded. “I know that's a concern, but it's also just part of life. We have other assets to fall back on through a tough season this time.”

“You're right. I've worked hard to bring us to financial stability.”

“And the Pack is thriving for it.”

“Thanks. Sometimes I think I just need that reminder. Overall, everything looks good. You shouldn't have too much to worry about while I'm gone. Just hold the fort down.”

“I always do.”

“We aren't leaving today. Why don’t you bring the family over for dinner tonight.”

“I'm sure Syd would love that.”

“Great. Say six.”

“And Lily's okay with this?”

I chuckled. “For you guys, always. There are those few I have free rein to spring on her without catching shit for it.”

“Aw, and I'm on that list?”

“Well, your mate is,” I teased. “So I suppose by default that extends to you.”

Lily and Sydney had become the best of friends. If I let myself think about it too much it still weirded me out a little. Those two should never have become friends, yet they'd connected from the second they met, and Lily had been adamant that she'd wanted to keep Syd as a friend despite my history with her. Now they were quite the pair.

As Luke left, I grabbed my phone and called her to give a heads up.

“Good morning,” she said sounding sleepy.

“Good morning to you too, Slugger. How are you feeling?”

“Your kid was having a party in my belly last night.”

I smiled.

“Not too much of one, I hope. We don't need an early arrival, especially since we're traveling. Maybe I should have Sam come by and check on you today. I'm not going to risk you or our pup for this reunion.”

“We're fine, and we aren't missing it. In fact, I think we should go early. Maybe even fly out this afternoon.”

“Nope.”

“But . . .”

“No buts. I invited Luke and Syd over for dinner tonight.”

I wasn't about to confess to her or them that it was a ploy to keep Lily here at least another day. I knew her so well and wasn't at all surprised she was asking to go early. I expected it and probably would have been worried if she hadn't mentioned it.

“Oh. Yeah, okay. Maybe in the morning would be better then.”

“You're going to keep pressing this until I cave and take you to San Marco to see Elise, aren't you?”

“I just need to see for myself that she's actually okay.”