Page 8 of Unwrapping Romance

“No arguments.” I pointed at her. “Or you’re fired.”

“I wasn’t going to argue. I fully support your no Christmas decorations policy.”

I leaned back in my chair and furrowed my brows.

“You do?”

“Yes. I despise the holiday season and all the decorations that go with it. It’s bad enough the city is already decorated. At least here, I don’t have to look at it.”

“Shut the door and sit down,” I said. “Why do you despise the holiday season?”

“Why do you?” She cocked her head.

“Who told you that I do?”

“You just did when you called me in here to tell me about your ‘no decoration’ policy. Anyone with a policy like that for the holidays obviously doesn’t celebrate.”

My phone rang. When I looked at it, I needed to take the call.

“I need to take this call. You may return to your desk.”

She walked out, and I answered the call.

“Hello, Dad.”

“Hello, son. How are you?”

“I’m fine. You?”

“Good. I wanted you to know that I asked Gabriela to marry me, and she said yes. We’re getting married on New Year's Eve and want you to come.”

“Congratulations. Unfortunately, I’ll be out of town on New Year’s Eve.”

“Can’t you cancel your plans?” he asked.

“It’s business, Dad. I can’t.”

I heard a long sigh from the other end. “See what you can do. Gabriela and I would like you here to celebrate with us.”

“Dad, I have a business call coming in. I’ll talk to you later,” I lied.

Setting my phone down, I saw Sierra standing in the doorway.

“Can I help you with something?” My brow arched.

“I overheard your conversation, and your schedule doesn’t say you’ll be out of town for New Year’s.”

I stared at her, narrowing my eyes.

“I lied. I won’t be out of town, so don’t worry about the schedule.”

“Why would you lie to your father?” she asked.

“That is none of your business.” I pointed at her. “Shut my door and get back to work.”

“Already yelling at your new assistant?” Daniel smiled, walking into my office.

“She’s asking questions that are none of her business.”