Because they’re evaluating.
Because even my brothers know when I’ve hit something raw.
Rowan finally speaks, voice low. “You want a discreet officiant present.”
“Yes.”
“And a witness,” Rowan adds.
“Yes.”
Theo’s grin fades into something quieter. “Jesus, Julian. Are you hearing yourself?”
I stand abruptly, chair scraping back.
Theo goes still.
Elliot’s eyes sharpen.
Caleb watches like he’s expecting a fist through glass.
I don’t hit anything.
I want to.
The impulse is vivid enough to surprise me.
“I am doing what I said I would do,” I tell them, voice controlled by force. “I am taking care of her mother. I am taking care of her sister. I am giving Lucy Bennett stability.”
Caleb’s gaze flicks to my screen. “And you wrote in bonuses for children?”
I glare at one of my oldest friends because the only way he would know that is if he read the agreement.
Theo’s head turns slowly. “You wrote what?”
I don’t answer.
Elliot exhales, incredulous. “Jesus, Julian.”
“Not anymore,” I say tightly. “She refused it. Refused the entire monetary section outside of care for her family. The bonuses per year after the minimum 3 years... everything. It’s removed.”
Theo sits back, staring at me like he’s seeing me for the first time. “Lucy refused… money?”
“Yes.”
“That’s…” Theo shakes his head, almost impressed. “That’s hot.”
“Don’t,” I snap. "I had to force her to accept access to my money for clothes and expenses."
Elliot’s laugh is unexpected. “He’s right, though. She’s not like the women Richard keeps trying to staple to you.”
Rowan’s eyes flick to mine. “Speaking of your father. He will find out. If he hasn’t already.”
“I know,” I say.
Caleb looks at me for a beat, then speaks carefully. “You’re building a PR story?”
“Yes.”
