“You know, I understand Dad being frustrated over getting sued, but you have no control over what she did. She manipulated and used you.”
“I guess, but Dad’s point is I didn’t have to date her.”
Our food soon arrived, and I took a bite of my sliced steak, which was spicy and rich. “How’s life with you?”
“They’re moving me to the NICU to help take care of those precious preemies. I’ll be getting paid more, too.”
I raised my drink, and we clinked glasses. “Well, then, congratulations. I’m so proud of you.” I took a sip and set my glass down. “You know, for someone who never wanted children, you sure are good at what you do.”
“I love kids, but I just don’t want any of my own. You know this already. My life is exactly how I want it, and I’m free to do what I want, when I want, whenever I’m not working. And who wants to raise children in this world? It’s chaos. I’ll always worry that I’ve brought a child into the world, only to learn they are struggling to live.”
No kids for me either. Our parents were disappointed in my sister and me for not having any yet. I also enjoyed my independence.
“How’s life with you? Anything new?”
“Linden and I have a new PA.”
“Finally. Who are they?”
“Atlas Stavros. We, ah… met him at one of our playtimes. It’s purely a coincidence.”
Chloe brought her napkin to her mouth and sniggered. “Oh, god. You fucked him and hired him afterward? Oh, shit… Dad’s so gonna be pissed if he finds out.”
“Well…”
She raised a plucked brow. “No! Are you and Linden still—”
“Yep,” I said quickly. “Linden and I really like him. He’s the first man we’ve gotten involved with beyond one night.”
She leaned back in the booth, jaw dropped. “Are you trying to get fired from this job?”
“What? No.”
She dug into her pork belly and hovered the fork over her mouth. “It sounds like you’re attempting to sabotage things. Why would you bring Atlas on and play with him, all the while being sued for sexual harassment? Shit, I don’t think Dad will let this go if he finds out. And what about your poor PA?”
Was I trying to sabotage my job? I definitely wanted Atlas, but was there more to it?WasI subconsciously trying to get into trouble? It was something to think about.
Before I could respond, she said, “Look, I’m not going to lecture you. It’s your life.”
“That’s why I love you and trust you. I can tell you things without you being all… judgy.”
She winked and took another sip of her drink. “Oh, I’m totally judging. Seriously, neither Linden nor you ever wanted to work for Cross Corp. Why don’t you two just leave and start your own business? Take Atlas with you.”
It was something I’d thought about, but I struggled to abandon my father after telling him I’d be a part of the business. “Maybe.”
“What about Linden?”
“What about him?”
Chloe tilted her head and looked at me as if I were completely dense. “He follows you everywhere. He does whatever you tell him.”
“He has free will. We’re close.”
“Hugh, he hates his job. He’s only there for you.”
I set my fork down without taking a bite. “I know he’d rather be doing something else, but he’s never told me he hates it. What’s he told you?”
“Nothing. I just see. I know. Remember? I’m on the outside now, and I also know you and Linden better than anyone.”
