Chapter 17

“Sir, Michelle is expecting to work with me today. May I or should I tell her I’m…busy?”

“No, you can work with her today. I’m taking Emma out to pick up a few things this afternoon. But tell Michelle you need to help me with a project for the next week or so. Starting tonight.”

Jesse furrowed his brow at the mention of a shopping trip. He doubted that Gideon was particularly concerned with her current need for jeans, and anything he might want to use as a tool for punishment would already be downstairs. But he wouldn’t get an answer if he asked, so he merely inclined his head.

“I’ll make sure she doesn’t expect to see me.”

“Good.” Gideon stood and came to him, dropping his hand to Jesse’s head and caressing the spot behind his ear. “This is for all of us. You know that, right, boy?”