Tangled Hearts (From the "Bound By Desire" series)

19. Surprises & Parties

"Girlie, why haven't you told him yet?" Victoria asked. I sighed.
"Because he might get angry. What if he-"
"Girl, he wants kids. Trust me, I know. I'm telling you, there's nothing to worry about, really." Drina said, interrupting me. I sighed again, glancing over at him, talking to some of his dad's friends.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes. You gotta tell him." Victoria said.
"Tomorrow at dinner. I'll tell him."
"Alright, girl. But you'd better not wait around." Drina stated, firmly.
"I won't. I promise."
"I wonder why he hasn't proposed. I figured after almost losing you, he'd be ready to." Drina commented, surveying the necklace.
"So did I in the moment of course."
"Because you thought you were pregnant, girlie." Victoria said.
"So what's the party for, Drina?"
"An announcement."
"What kind of announcement?"
"You'll see." Damien's dad clinked his wine glass to get the crowd's attention.
"I have an announcement. I am retiring from my business, Ryder Industries. As my successor, Damien, will be in touch or anything anyone needs. Damien Ryder will be resigning from his other job and becoming CEO of Ryder Industries. Damien, anything to say to your new employees?"
"Wh-what?"
"My father is old, Iris. Damien knew this day was coming. He'll need to be cared for. I could put in a would for you. Unless you'd like to be Damien's secretary instead."
"Um, I'll let Damien choose."
"Smart."
"Good evening, everyone. As you all know, I am Dominic Ryder's son. My name is Damien Ryder, but you can call me Mr. Ryder or Mr. Damien. I'd like to start first by introducing my girlfriend and new secretary, Iris Hart. Iris, love. Come here." I grinned, as I made my way up to him. My cheeks were flushed as Damien placed his hand on my back. He smiled. "Shoulders back and show some pride, my sweet sub." He whispered. I followed my orders, smiling. "She'll be the person you'll speak to first before speaking to me."
"I........H-hi, everyone. I'm Iris Edwards, Damien's girlfriend and soon to be secretary. Thank you all for welcoming me."
"To Ryder Industries." Damien announced, holding up a glass.
"To Ryder Industries." Everyone said, raising their glasses.