“No. I just want her to go away,” I counter, shaking my head.
“She needs to have some damn consequences,” Lo argues. “I want everyone to see there are consequences to fucking lies like this that can mess with a person’s career and mental health. What she’s doing is not okay and that’s the message that needs to come from this.”
“I think your boyfriend is right,” Rigo says, even as I’m shaking my head. “You’ll win and whatever you get from this—though I’m not convinced any damages will be paid out, she doesn’t appear to be financially affluent—you can donate. I’m sure we can find an organization that supports victims in your situation.”
God, that word. Victim. I understand that by definition, I’m the victim here, though at the moment, the world sees it differently. Still, it makes me feel so helpless.
“Okay, fine. I don’t care. I just want her to go the fuck away. Please hurry on the paternity test too.”
Rigo chuckles. “Believe me, Caulder, if we could hurry the legal system in any way, we would.”
I sigh. “I know.”
“Everything else okay? You need anything?”
“No. Thanks.”
“Then we’ll talk soon.”
“Rigo?”
“Yes?”
“Thank you. I can’t imagine… I just keep thinking that I’m so fortunate not to have someone like Felton’s agent who would throw me under the bus. You’re doing the complete opposite. I’m sure this is out of your contractual obligations.”
“It is and it’s not,” Rigo says. “My job is to represent you. To look out for you. To protect you. Just because the wording sounds like it only pertains to your career doesn’t mean it’s the only way you need representation and protection. By all means, this is impacting your career. Maybe not from the team, but publicly.”
“What you’re saying is you’re doing your job.”
“I am. But, Caulder? Even if this didn’t impact your career, I’d be protecting you. You’re a good person and you don’t deserve these lies to infiltrate your life like they are.”
“You need a raise,” I mutter.
He chuckles. “Enjoy the rest of your day. Make sure you get some sleep. I can hear the exhaustion in your voice.”
Lo grins, nodding.
“Thanks, Rigo.”
CHAPTER 28
LO
It’s latewhen my tablet rings. The tension I’ve been carrying in my shoulders since I haven’t had him online melts away. Until I see his face fill my screen.
Caulder looks like he’s been run over with a Mack truck. He’s fucking exhausted.
“Hey, babe,” I say gently.
He turns toward the screen as he’s unbuttoning his shirt. We’re in his hotel bathroom right now as he strips from his suit. The dark circles under his eyes are clear, even from this distance.
It makes my fury rise all the more. This bitch better get a good dose of karma. Or I’m going to hire some fucking karma.
“Hi,” he answers, and his voice is just as tired.
“Good game tonight. Only caught the highlights, but you had both assists, yeah?”
Caulder nods. “Yeah,” he agrees.
