“That’s an understatement.”
“Penny doesn’t keep in touch with Brianne anymore. They never got along.”
“But she’s Brianne-adjacent.”
That only made me think howadjacentPenny’s body had been to mine during our so-called friendly hug.
“Doesn’t mean Penny is like her. In fact, I’ve found her quite…” I trailed off, hunting for a word perfect enough for her.
“Fuck. You’re gone for her.” He pivoted toward the suite’s mini bar.
“There’s a connection I can’t deny, but she works for me now. End of story.” I followed, craving a drink. Before I could pour, he grabbed his coat and keys. “Where are you off to?”
“I’m taking the interns out to eat, and then to that country club for axe throwing. Figured a little team building and a chance to talk and mentor them through their experiences at the office would be good. I especially heard how fun the non-fraternization meeting went.” He rolled his eyes and headed for the door.
“Yeah. Welcome to my life now as CEO, thanks to you following your passions to teach.”
“Are you still mad about that?” His face flushed red, voice raised, with one hand on the knob.
“No!” I scrubbed a hand through my hair. “I told you before I’m proud of you, and I meant it. Might be nice if I heard the same from you once in a while as I keep the Bellamy Brothers afloat.”
He jammed his hands into his pockets. “You’re right. I left you with a lot to handle. Of course, I’m fucking proud of you. Look at us—decent lives despite Dad’s mediocre parenting.”
“Thank you.”
“Just be careful in your dealings with Penny.”
I snorted. “If by dealings you mean thisprofessionalwork trip we are on, of course. Above all else, I will conduct myself accordingly. We’re here to meet Holden, schmooze a new client, view the site, take notes. Work trip all the way.”
“Right.” He turned back to the door, then hesitated. “If you end up taking things further with Penny someday, just be careful. All I want for you, brother, is to find the same happiness I have with Maisy.”
“I want that, too.” I blinked, shocked at hearing myself say it aloud for the first time.
He grinned. “It’s about time you admitted it. You have my blessing to pursue that, but I’ll always protect my little brother, no matter who you’re with.”
“Who are you calling little? There’s only one minute between our births, asswipe.”
He laughed. “Coming with me to dinner or not?”
“Nope. I’m staying in. So don’t let any of your interns get drunk tonight.”
“On a work trip? No way would I want to ruffle the feathers of the CEO.” He left grinning.
After a much-needed nap,I had room service bring a steak meal hot enough to fog the window when I lifted the lid. I ate half of it, staring out at the lights of the valley, the TV muted.
Loneliness crept in.
I paced, answered three emails, and checked the company project board. I could wear out the carpet of this lush, impeccable suite, and it wouldn’t make a damn bit of difference. The “friendly hug” with Penny wouldn’t leave me—the memory of her body against mine, the way our conversation was both a promise and a warning.
Around nine I caved and texted her.
Me: Checking in. Did you and Maya arrive safely?
Several agonizing minutes later, she responded.
Penny: Safe and sound, captain.
Captain?
