I mentally smile at her boldness and the obvious relief that flashes across her face when I agree to her, what, her demand? Order? Ultimatum? Whatever; it doesn't matter. She's forcing my hand, a little sooner than planned, but she's perfect and I'm tossing my chips in too. All in.

Pushing away from my desk and standing up slowly, I tell her, "I can do official, Steph. And I can do exclusive."

She stares and bites her lip. "But? I hear a "but" coming."

She holds her grounds as I take a step towards her, and then another. When I reach her, put my hands on her hips, and lean in, I whisper, "But I need you to tell me you love me."

She visibly relaxes, puts her arm around my neck, leans in, and whispers back, "I love you, Ranger Manoso."

"I love you too, Babe."