Chapter Thirty-eight
Mikkel
“Love is not only something you feel, it is something you do.”
~ David Wilkerson
“H ere’s the latest report, sir,” Sapphire said, sliding a thick folder across my desk.
I exhaled, rubbing a hand over my face. Exhaustion clung to me after back-to-back flights to Chicago, Seattle, Miami and Connecticut. But more than the travel, what really got to me was being away from Abigail, especially when I knew she needed me. Her anxiety had been high, and I wasn’t there to hold her, to ground her.
Shaking off the frustration, I flipped through the pages, scanning figures, deadlines, and client updates. Everything looked in order, until I reached the section marked Seattle Acquisition.
“The Seattle acquisition is becoming a bit tricky,” she continued, tapping the folder lightly with her pen. “There are some unexpected complications with local zoning laws. We might face delays.”
My grip tightened on the edge of the desk, the words causing a knot to form in my stomach. Seattle. Of all the damn things to go wrong.
I wasn’t sure if it was the sound of her voice or the way the report laid out the issue so simply, but I felt my blood pressure rise. I was already aware of the stakes here—Seattle was crucial for our expansion, and delays would push everything back by months, maybe even years. I took a deep breath, resisting the urge to snap.
I reached into the drawer to pull out my stress ball. Squeezing it tight, I repeated the words in my head like a mantra: There’s nothing to explode over. I’ll fix it.
I let out a slow breath, focusing on my palm against the squishy rubber.
In. Out. In. Out.
I could feel the tension leaving my body, the anger starting to fade. Slowly, the fiery storm in my chest turned to something more manageable. I could think. I could act.
“Alright.” I met Sapphire’s gaze again. “Let’s break this down.”
She nodded, and I motioned toward the door. “Call Antonio in—we’ll need his expertise for this meeting.”
He handled acquisitions and zoning, expertly navigating the red tape that could make or break a deal.
As she stepped out to get him, I refocused on the papers in front of me. Another problem, another challenge. Fuck me.
When they returned, we dove into the details. With both of their expertise combined, we made steady progress. Each issue we tackled brought us closer to a solution. No rushing, no rash decisions—just methodical work. Slowly but surely, the problem took shape into something solvable.
By the end of the three-hour meeting, Antonio left, and what once seemed like an obstacle was now just a minor task. I leaned back, letting the satisfaction settle—until a knock at the door pulled me from my thoughts.
Morison peeked in. “Mr. Suarez, someone’s here to see you.”
Before I could ask who, the door swung open, and Abigail walked in, arms full with a bag and a wide smile. Her locs looked richer, deepened in color like fire-kissed mahogany, and damn, she looked amazing.
Gah, my girlfriend is beautiful. Too beautiful. Every time I see her, it hits me like the first time—like I’ve been starving for her, and now she’s finally within reach.
I cleared my throat, trying—and failing—to regain my composure as Sapphire stood up to leave.
“Sapphire,” I began, “this is my—”
“Future wife.”
Abigail stepped forward and finished my sentence as if she already knew—like our future was certain, like there was no other path but us.
And God help me, I think my brain just stopped working.
The idea of someone else having my last name never intrigued me until I met her.
Sapphire’s brows lifted in pleasant surprise, glancing between us. “Very nice to meet you. I’m the operations manager.”
“It’s nice to meet you too,” Abigail responded with a friendly nod, completely unfazed.
Sapphire noted briskly, “I’ll have Morison prepare the final document, sir,” before turning on her heel and exiting the office.
As soon as the door clicked shut, Abigail turned to me, eyes sparkling. “Hey,” she greeted, walking further inside and placing the bag on my desk. “I missed you.”
A grin broke across my face as I stood up, my entire body humming with warmth. I moved around my desk, closing the space between us. “Hello, future wife,” I drawled.
She melted into my arms before pulling away slightly, eyes bright. “I brought something for you.”
With a concentrated look, she dug into the bag and pulled out three containers of food, carefully placing them on the desk.
“What’s all this?” I asked, brow lifting.
“Lunch.” A shy smile graced her lips, soft and so damn sweet. “I cooked for you.”
My heart slammed against my ribs, warmth blooming through my chest. My Red— my heart —had cooked for me.
I reached for the containers, lifting them close, and the second the rich, familiar scents hit me, something deep in me tightened. It smelled like home.
“Wait.” My eyes widened in surprise, recognition washing over me. “Is this Sancocho, tostones, and Pollo Guisado?”
She nodded enthusiastically, her smile stretching wide, pleased. Proud. “Yes, but the taste may vary. I used recipes I found from Allrecipes .”
I set the containers down, cupped her face, and kissed her—slow and deep—pulling her close. She did this for me. Thought of me. Went out of her way to make something she knew would mean the world to me.
I pulled back just enough to whisper, “I really appreciate this. You’re amazing, and you put so much thought into it.”
Her fingers curled against my chest. “I hope you like it,” she murmured, voice soft, almost uncertain. But this wasn’t just about the food. It was the effort, the love she poured into it. The fact that she made Dominican dishes for me meant everything. I knew from watching my mother prepare them just how much work, patience, and care went into each one.
“You have no idea how much you’ve brightened my day, Red.”
I pulled out the nearest chair and sat down, already digging in. The sancocho was perfectly tender, the flavors deep and rich. It had a kick, spicier than I was used to, but it still tasted like home. The tostones were crisped to perfection, and the pollo guisado? Unreal.
I took another bite, closing my eyes briefly, savoring every bit. Then I glanced up at her, a teasing smirk curling at my lips.
“What do I have to do to get a plate of these per day?”
Excitement beamed across her face. “Exist.”
I’m doomed.
I reached out, running my hand through her hair, then stilled. “You changed the color?”
A small, knowing smile tugged at her lips. “I mixed the copper platinum with burgundy. Didn’t think you’d notice. ”
I let out a slow breath, my eyes dragging over her, drinking her in. “I noticed the second you walked in.” My voice dropped, rougher now. “I always notice you.”
Her blush deepened, her fingers twitching at her side like she wanted to reach for me. Like she was holding herself back. And fuck, that made me want her more.
“How’s work?” she asked, her voice softer now, like she felt it too.
I told her about the acquisition, about how close I’d come to losing my patience, about the hours of negotiations that had me this close to snapping. And she just listened—eyes locked on mine, soaking up every word.
When I finished, she reached up, brushing her fingers along my jaw, her touch featherlight. “I’m proud of you, Mikkel,” she whispered. “Not just for what you’re doing, but for how you’re handling things.”
Something in me broke.
I swallowed, my throat tight, my chest burning with something I couldn’t name—something too big, too consuming. I needed her closer, needed to feel her against me.
I cradled her face in my hands, letting my thumbs trace the curve of her jaw, my forehead pressing against hers. “You make me want to be better,” I admitted, my voice raw. “You make me—” I exhaled sharply, shaking my head. Fuck. “You have no idea what you do to me, Red.”
Her breath hitched, fingers tightening around my wrist. She didn’t answer with words, but the way she melted into my touch said it all.
Smiling, heart full, I kissed her forehead, grateful for the calm she brought to my chaos. After a little more conversation, I took her to her nail appointment, hoping to beat traffic and make it back for my budget meeting.
I wiped the sweat from my forehead and set the dumbbell back on the rack. The gym was quieter than usual, the hum of treadmills and clinking weights forming a steady rhythm. I took a deep breath, savoring the brief pause before my next set.
The budget meeting went smoothly. The Astar’s contract was on track, Chicago’s expansion was progressing, and Miami’s was underway. Seattle’s acquisition was being redrafted, while we explored transport markets in Africa and Europe. Client satisfaction remained high, though supply chain delays continued to slow our fleet. To counter this, we were actively streamlining operations and securing alternative suppliers.
As I caught my breath, my phone buzzed in my pocket. It was Abigail.
“ Amor ? 94 ” I greeted, glancing at the gym clock. She was probably just about done with her nails.
“Mikkel Suarez, you are truly something else.”
“What happened?”
She chuckled softly. “I went to pay for my nails, but Kody told me you’d already covered this set and the future ones.”
“I don’t see the need for you to spend your own money when I exist.”
Her laugh was sweet, like the gentle clink of a champagne glass. “You know you spoil me?”
“I’m very aware, and besides, you’re too beautiful to be spending your money,” I said, leaning back on the treadmill. “Send me a picture so I can see how they look?”
“I will,” she promised.
I nodded, checking the time. “I’ll come see you after my workout.”
“Alright, baby.”
Just as I hung up and reached for my water bottle, the gym door swung open, and in walked Arnoldo with a stupid smirk plastered on his face.
“You’re here, cabrón , 95 ” I called out, a grin spreading across my face.
Arnoldo rolled his eyes at my comment and made his way over, cutting through the rows of equipment like a knife through butter.
“Never thought I’d see you here, being in love and all,” he joked, giving my shoulder a friendly thump.
“You can try it out sometime?” I urged. “Being in love, I mean.”
His expressions fell and all of a sudden, nothing was funny.
“What’s the plan today?” he asked, ignoring my questions while flexing his arms.
“Arm day,” I replied with a mock grimace.
He groaned dramatically. “Torture as always.”
I shrugged, trying to hide my smirk. “Get to work, Reyes.”
He grabbed dumbbells and started his warm-up. “What are we wearing to Dillon’s wedding?”
“You mean the wedding that is almost a year away?”
“Yes, Suarez, that wedding.”
“Azzaria has very strict dress codes but aren’t we groomsmen?” I replied, slightly bemused. “I’d assume it’s a tux.”
?Quién será el padrino? 96
I dropped the dumbbell, chuckling. “No idea, Reyes. I doubt there will be a best man, but I heard Bryce wants the role since he’s known Dillon the longest.”
Arnoldo hissed, nearly tipping over the loose gear. “Dillon’s a better man than me. Bryce would’ve found out I was getting married from a tabloid.”
“Let’s switch topics before you turn as red as a tomato, Reyes.”
We pushed through our workout in uncomfortable silence, focusing on sets and reps. By the time we finished, my muscles were burning, but I knew I’d accomplished something.
As we packed up and headed for the door, Arnoldo broke the silence. “Same time next week?”
“We’ll see.”
He clapped me on the back. “Alright, man, I’m gonna grab a smoothie. ?Vienes? ” 97
“ Sí. ” 98
We took the elevator to the café. I grabbed a green smoothie for myself, a berry smoothie for Abigail, and Arnoldo grabbed a triple-nut protein shake.
As we walked out, I noticed Arnoldo had been unusually quiet—he was never like this. “You’ve been off today. ?Estás bien? ” 99
He took a slow sip of his shake. “A lot on my mind. Nothing to worry about.”
I raised an eyebrow. “That doesn’t sound like nothing.”
He shrugged, glancing away. “Nothing a good night’s rest can’t fix.”
I didn’t press him further, just gave him a nod. “If you need to talk, I’m here.”
He let out a soft sigh, then gave me a half-smile. “I know, man. Appreciate it.”
After a brief silence, I got in the car, stopped by the florist for fresh flowers, and headed to Abigail’s apartment. Her smile lifted my spirits the moment she opened the door, but the shadow in her eyes hit me hard.
“These are for you, baby.” I handed her the smoothie and the flowers.
“Thank you,” she murmured, placing them on the counter. “The flowers are beautiful.”
I caught a glimpse of her nails as she reached for the smoothie. Gently, I took her free hand in mine. “French tips with diamonds?” I smirked. “They’re beautiful.”
Her cheeks warmed as she smiled. “You really notice everything.”
“Hard not to when it’s you,” I said, brushing a kiss over her knuckles.
I kicked off my shoes and settled on the couch. “Bedroom,” she said, and I got up to follow, closing the door behind us.
She collapsed onto the bed, her hair fanning out across the sheets, and her white tank top rode up slightly, revealing her perfectly striped stomach.
“What’s wrong?”
Releasing a heavy sigh, she muttered, “I just feel bleh.”
“Anything happened after you left my office?” I prodded gently.
Shaking her head, she replied, “No.”
Moving to the bottom of the bed, I began massaging her feet, hoping to alleviate some of her tension.
“Anything bothering you?” I pressed softly.
She sighed again, a mixture of frustration and resignation evident in the sound.
“You know you can talk to me about anything, right?” I reassured her, my fingers gently kneading her tired muscles.
She nodded, her eyes meeting mine with a hint of vulnerability. “I know,” she whispered. “That foot rub also feels so good.”
Feeling her tension beneath my fingertips, I gently squeezed her leg. “Is it about my parents coming to visit?”
Her eyes widened in surprise as if I’d just unraveled her innermost thoughts. “How did you know?”
“Because I know you, Red.” I traced circles on her sole with my thumb. “Because I see you.”
“I’m just so anxious,” she whispered. “We’ve spoken over the phone, but meeting in person is different. What if the—”
“Hey,” I interrupted gently, tilting her chin up to meet my gaze. “You’re amazing, and my parents will adore you. And even if they don’t, it won’t change how I feel about you.”
“But what if they think I’m too young or—”
I cupped her face, wiping away a tear. “What we have is real, mi reina , 100 ” I said softly. “That’s what matters.”
She took a shaky breath, her eyes clouded with worry. “But what if I’m not…”
I could feel her insecurities, the way they clung to her like a shadow, and it broke my heart to see her doubt herself this way. “You’re more than good enough,” I reassured her. “You don’t need to prove anything, especially to my parents.”
“I just don’t want to let you down.”
I shook my head, caressing her cheek. “You could never disappoint me. I see how hard this is, but you’re perfect as you are. You bring more happiness into my life than I ever imagined.”
She blinked back tears, her vulnerability clear.
I pulled her close, feeling her tremble. “There’s nothing to mess up, baby. Even if things don’t go perfectly, it won’t change us. I’m here, and I’m not leaving. We’ll face it together, like we always do.”
She clung to me, her grip tight as if she was afraid to let go. “Thank you for always getting me out of my head. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
“You’ll never have to find out.” I pressed a kiss to the top of her head. “Because I’m right here with you.”
She nodded against my chest, her breathing gradually slowing. “Okay.”
“No ‘what ifs,’” I stated firmly, wiping away her tears with my thumb. “ Tú y yo, contra el mundo. 101 ”
Her lips trembled as she searched my eyes, seeking reassurance. “Against everything.”
I pressed my lips to hers in a tender kiss, pouring all the love and devotion I felt for her into that single moment.
“You’re my love, Red,” I whispered against her lips. “And I’ll always be here with you no matter what.”