Okay, I’ve made some bad choices with men in my past, but Graham has never said that to me or even tried to give me advice.
Connor gives me a single nod, but then also steps back from the doorway. “Once you tell Graham about your relationship and we’re able to speak with him and be reassured that everything is solid with IES, we will consider going forward.”
My eyes widen. “You’re not going to sign the contracts until I’ve told my brother about my relationship with Everett?”
Gage nods. “We have been in business with our family for years. We like that. We value it highly. It was something that drew us to IES and IAS. But we understand it can be complicated. It’s emotional, no matter how you try to keep feelings out of it. We have always operated with the utmost honesty, transparency, and integrity. Our family and business are intimately intertwined. We need to know that everything is solid on your end before we proceed.”
Fuck. Fuck, fuck,fuck.
I don’t expect this to be a problem with Graham. But this is a wrench in our situation with the Albrights. We need these contracts. We need their money. And obviously, to get both of those things, we need their full trust. Which has now been shaken.
“Why don’t you come in? Everett will be right back, and we can talk this out.”
Connor tucks the manila envelope he’s been holding back into the leather satchel he’s carrying.
“I don’t think so.”
Now I really start to panic. “Leave the contracts. We can review them and come to your office later today.”
“We don’t intend to work today beyond this. We have family obligations,” Gage says, emphasizing the wordfamily.
“If you would just?—”
“Good day, Miss Riley.”
“But I want to fix this.”
Connor lifts a shoulder. “And we told you how to do that. We look forward to hearing from your brother.”
They stride down the hall and press the elevator button.
I simply watch them go. I don’t know what else to say.
Strangely, even as my heart pounds in my chest and adrenaline makes my palms tingle and sweat, I understand where they’re coming from.
I don’t think Graham will have a problem, buttheydon’t know that. Not until Graham tells them that. Fair enough.
ButImight have a problem. Withme.
My fucking personal life and professional life are colliding again and causing problems.
When will I ever learn? Ihave tostop falling for and sleeping with the people that I work with.
The elevator doors swish shut, and before I can even turn and shut the hotel room door, the second elevator opens, and Everett steps off.
He looks amazing. He’s smiling widely, carrying two huge coffee cups.
Hot man who loves me with coffee? That’s fantasy material right there.
And now I want to cry.
He spots me in the doorway and clearly reads that I’m upset.
He frowns and hurries forward. “Ginger? What’s going on?”
“The Albrights just stopped by. And found me here half naked in your hotel room.”
“Oh. Damn.”
