“Samantha.”
She pauses, hand on the doorknob, looking back at me.
I want to ask her why she was with Logan and what she’s really doing here. But something stops me. Maybe it’s the way she’s looking at me now, open and genuine. Maybe it’s the fact that I don’t want to ruin whatever this morning was.
“If you need anything,” I say instead. “My office is always open.”
Her smile is softer this time. “I’ll remember that.”
She slips out, closing the door quietly behind her.
I stand there for a long moment, staring at the space where she was. Then I move to the window, watching the snow begin to fall harder.
Why was she with Logan?
8
GRANT
Four days passin a blur of business calls and watching Samantha settle into the private wing like she’s always belonged here.
She’s careful, polite, and keeps to herself mostly, reading in the library or working on her laptop in her room. But I catch glimpses of her everywhere. In the kitchen, making coffee at dawn. At dinner each evening, the four of us fall into an easy rhythm that feels too natural for how new it is.
Kai makes her laugh. Donovan engages her mind. And I watch both things happen while trying to figure out what the hell I’m doing, allowing this woman to burrow deeper into our lives.
On the fifth day after Logan left, I’m in my office reviewing the Denver acquisition files when she appears in the doorway.
“Sorry.” She hesitates. “I didn’t mean to interrupt. I was looking for the cinema and got turned around.”
“It’s two doors down on the left.” I lean back in my chair. “But you’re welcome to come in.”
She glances behind her like she’s considering escape, then steps inside. “What are you working on?”
“Denver Tech Solutions. The acquisition Donovan and I discussed with Logan.” I gesture to the chair across from my desk. “It’s tedious.”
“Sounds thrilling.” She sits, tucking one leg under her.
“It’s necessary.” I close the laptop. “How are you settling in?”
“Good. Your staff has been incredible. I feel a bit useless, honestly.”
“You’re recovering from a fall down a mountain. You’re allowed to be useless for a few days.”
She smiles at that. “Fair point.”
Silence settles between us, but it’s not awkward.
“Can I ask you something?” I say finally.
“Sure.”
“Why did you stay with Logan?”
Her smile fades. “We’ve already talked about this.”
“Not really. You said you stayed through four instances of cheating because you thought he’d change.” I lean forward. “But you’re too smart to believe that. So what was the real reason?”
She looks away, fingers twisting in her lap. “Maybe I’m not as smart as you think.”
