I hesitate.
The hurt is still raw, the breach of trust significant.
But the context matters.It always has.
"I don't know yet," I admit."But I do know we need to deal with Duncan.And Richard."
Viktoria nods."Now that sounds like the CEO my sister kept talking about."
As they gather their things, preparing to leave me to my thoughts, my office door bursts open one final time.
Alana stands there, expression apologetic but determined.
"One last update, Mr.Abernathy.The Highland Hammocks underwear line is proceeding without your endorsement.They've named their signature product 'The Abernathy'—it features a special tartan-lined..."she clears her throat, "...supportive pouch."
Connor loses it completely, doubling over with laughter.
Even Luke and Viktoria can't maintain their composure.
And despite everything—the betrayal, the manipulation, the impending board meeting, and the acquisition hanging in the balance—I find myself laughing too.
Perhaps that's the first step toward seeing things clearly again.
27
BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD SCOTSMAN
KARINA
Five days after the Connor's engagement party disaster, I’ve got a new outlook on life.And a list of how to get there.
1.Establish a professional routine that doesn't involve checking social media.
2.Stop crying in bathroom stalls.
3.Avoid obsessively drafting emails to Callum that I'll never send
I've set up a makeshift office in my mother's dining room, where I can pretend to be productive while actually staring at the same spreadsheet for hours.
The late August heat has broken slightly, leaving Seattle with perfect 75-degree days and cool evenings that would be enjoyable if my life weren't spectacularly imploding.
"You've been looking at that same cell for twenty minutes.”Mom sets a cup of strong Armenian coffee beside my laptop."Excel not solving life problems?"
"Shockingly, no."I sigh, rubbing my eyes."Turns out 'career resurrection' isn't a standard Excel function."
"Should be.Would be very useful."
My phone buzzes with yet another notification—probably another journalist requesting an interview or another well-meaning stranger sharing their #BeyondYourLabel story.
I've been inundated since my credentials were exposed, with reactions ranging from scathing professional condemnation to surprising solidarity from others who've faced similar barriers.
I glance at the screen and freeze.
"What?"Mom asks, noting my expression."Bad news?"
"Unexpected news.”I stare at the notification."Fiona Abernathy is outside."
"Callum's grandmother?"Mom perks up immediately."The Scottish matchmaker?"
