Griffin’s expression cooled. “I’m well aware of what’s at stake, Julian. You don’t need to remind me.”
“Strange,” my father said, examining Griffin like he was studying disappointing lap data. “Your recent behavior suggests otherwise. I’d hate to see the board reconsidering your position this late in the season.”
Griffin’s fingers curled against the table edge. “I understand perfectly.”
The tension between them was palpable, even through the screen. I shifted uncomfortably, glancing at Hazel’s sleeping form. She was oblivious to the storm brewing around her, to the way her very existence had upended so many lives.
“I think we’ve covered everything for now,” Dominic said, stepping in smoothly. “Griffin understands the importance of discretion, and we have a solid plan for Monza. Let’s reconvene if anything changes.”
My father looked like he wanted to say more, but after a moment, he nodded curtly. “Very well. Violet, I expect regular updates.”
“Of course,” I said automatically, though all of my updates up until now had been purposefully basic. I refused to be his spy.
“Griffin,” he said, his tone carrying a clear warning, “remember what we discussed.”
With that, he ended the call, his window disappearing from the screen. Selene followed suit after a brief goodbye, leaving only Dominic.
“Well,” Dominic said with a wry smile, “that went about as well as expected.”
Griffin ran a hand through his hair. “Julian’s in rare form today.”
“He’s worried about the team’s image,” Dominic said diplomatically. “And your contract situation gives him additional leverage.”
“You didn’t have to bring that up.”
“Sometimes a gentle reminder of reality is necessary. Julian needs to understand that he’s not the only one with options.”
Surprise baby or no, Griffin was still a two-time champion. I hated the sport and even I knew the man would be sought after. Which honestly made me wonder why he even tried to appease my father.
Dominic smirked. “I think his blood pressure spiked at that one.”
Griffin rubbed a hand down his face. “He’s not the only one.”
I bit my lip, uncomfortable with the direction of the conversation. These were team matters, contract negotiations that I had no business being privy to.
Dominic seemed to sense my discomfort. “Violet, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you, even under these circumstances. Griffin speaks highly of you.”
I raised a brow, glancing at Griffin, who suddenly looked very interested in his nails. “Does he now?”
“Well, he mentioned you’re keeping him in line, which for Griffin is high praise,” Dominic said with a chuckle. “In all seriousness, thank you for stepping in. I know this can’t be easy.”
“I’m just doing what needs to be done,” I said, unsure how else to respond.
Dominic nodded. “That’s all any of us can do. And try to stay out of baby shops for now, hmm?” Dominic added with a wink to Griffin before ending the call.
Griffin closed his laptop with a sigh and leaned back in his chair. “Well, that was fun.”
I gave him a look. “Is that what we’re calling it?”
“Your father is… a nightmare.”
Oh, he's that and more.
I shrugged, keeping my face neutral. “He didn’t build a championship team by being nice, Griffin. He focuses on the objective. Everything else is just noise.”
“Including his family?”
“To Julian, the team is family.”
