“But what if—” I start, but Nichole holds up her hand.

“I’m going to stop you right there and tell you that all decisions were made in your best interest. Therefore, there will be no protesting. I’m serious, Myla. What’s done is done. That’s it. End of discussion.”

“How is that fair?”

“Because you are far too emotional to be involved in this conversation. I’ve gone over everything with the boys, and they’ve deemed it worthy, so you can either leave or you can listen to what the plan is. You tell me.”

“Babe, just listen. I promise you’ll like it.” Ryot grips me soothingly, which warms me and eases my tension.

“Okay, but I reserve the right to have an opinion at the end.”

“Cute that you think that.” Nichole clears her throat. “Now, first things first. Number one on my list is that Banner is required to ask Kenzie out on a date.”

“Kenzie?” I ask as Banner sinks into his chair.

“Jesus Christ, Nichole.”

“You know you want to,” she says.

“What’s going on with Kenzie?” I ask.

Ryot leans into my ear and coos, “Banner likes her.”

“Oh, is that so?” I turn toward him as he motions to Nichole to keep going.

“Let’s move on.”

“Remember, there is no protesting, so Banner, you must do as you’re told.” Nichole smirks, and even though she looks unwell, there’s still a glint in her eyes. “Next on the list. Ryot will be accepting the ESPN job as well as keeping his position with The Jock Report.”

I turn toward him, and he just says, “Keep listening.”

“Thirdly, Myla, you won’t be moving to Chicago. You will be staying in California with your husband—”

“I’m not leaving you,” I protest, even though I know I shouldn’t.

“Babe, give her a second.” Ryot smooths his hand over my arm.

With an evil glare, Nichole continues, “You will be staying in California with your husband. You’re going to take that job with Kelsey because from what I understand, it’s a fantastic opportunity and something you’ve been dreaming of. Not to mention you seem to get along with them very well, from what I’ve been told. And me, well, I’ll be moving as well to a beach house in California.”

“Wait . . . what?” I ask, perking up.

“So will you and Ryot. He spoke with Huxley, who has a friend out in Malibu who rents houses. There are two right by the ocean, two doors down from each other, which would work perfectly for us. Your dearest husband has demanded to help with the cost of the rent. Banner has some doctors he wants me to talk to, and I’ll continue my treatments in California.”

“Seriously?” My eyes well up with tears.

“Yes. Now, there are no promises as to where this will take me, or what treatments are available. But even if I’m afforded a year, that’s one more year just sitting by the beach, reading all the books that I want to read, and enjoying the most beautiful sunsets while living near my best friend again.”