“I need you both in here,” I say, the urgency in my voice drawing their attention.
I enter my office, sit behind my desk, and motion for them both to have a seat. Nash looks at me with a mix of curiosity and warmth. Vanessa rolls her eyes, annoyed by the interruption.
I ignore her reaction and focus on the task at hand. “I’ve just been assigned a new case,” I begin, my voice tinged with a mix of excitement and panic.
Nash cocks an eyebrow, leaning in with interest. “What kind of case?”
“Wrongful death. It’s set for trial in three months.” I can’t hide the strain in my voice, the way it pitches slightly higher.
“Whoa,” Nash says, looking like he understands that this will be a lot of work in a short amount of time.
“Yeah,” I reply, trying to steady myself. “So, I’ll need all hands on deck.”
Vanessa sighs, crossing her arms. “Let me guess. You want us to do all the work, and you’ll take the credit.”
I blink at her, stunned by the audacity. “No, Vanessa. I want us to work as a team,” I reply, trying to keep my voice calm but firm.
Nash shoots her a look. “Don’t be a brat,” he says, and for a moment, I think he might actually be mad.
I shoot him a grateful smile, relieved by his support.
“I’m going to email you both a list of what I need done. Our other cases shouldn’t be ignored, but this case will be our top priority. Understood?” I hold her gaze, making sure she knows I’m serious.
She gives a reluctant nod, and I wonder if she’ll surprise me for once and actually do her work without giving me her shitty attitude.
Nash grins at me, and there’s something in his expression that makes my pulse quicken. “Don’t worry,” he says. “We’ve got your back.”
I smile, feeling a rush of gratitude. I know I can depend on him, at least.
“Thanks, guys,” I say, dismissing them.
As soon as they leave, I sit at my desk, trying to organize my thoughts. I send an email outlining the tasks I need them to get started on, feeling like I might collapse under the weight of everything. Nash replies almost instantly, his email short.
From: Nash Collins
Subject: Re: Wilkinson v. Blackwell Memorial Hospital
I’ll get right on that.
Nash Collins,Avery’s Boyfriend
I stare at the signature line, fighting the urge to smile. Rolling my eyes, I reply.
To: Nash Collins
Subject: Re: Wilkinson v. Blackwell Memorial Hospital
I’m not your girlfriend.
Avery Anders,Associate Attorney
His response comes quickly, and I can’t help but laugh when I see it.
From: Nash Collins
Subject: Re: Wilkinson v. Blackwell Memorial Hospital
Whatever you say. ;)
