There are murmurs. She cuts them off with a raised hand.
“I won’t be taking questions or comments. This is basic kindergarten knowledge. If you’ve made it this far in life and still need that explained to you, then you don’t deserve to go further.”
She smiles again.
“Now, everyone have a great day. There are snacks and coffee in the lounge. It’s a beautiful day. Enjoy it.”
She nods toward me.
I don’t hesitate. I cross the room and slide my hand into hers. Her fingers curl around mine instantly. We walk out together, Wilbyfollowing behind us. His face is neutral, but I know better. He’s eating this up.
We head toward her office. Wilby shuts the door behind us.
“That was epic,” he says, fist pumping. “I’ve been patiently waiting years for you to do that, Silverlyn. Well done.”
Silvie exhales and sinks into her chair, crossing her legs.
I sit on the couch across from her. Wilby sits down beside me.
She meets my eyes, smirks, then looks away.
“Okay,” she says. “That felt good.”
“I bet,” I say. “I’m proud of you.”
She glances back at me. There’s something softer there now.
“What was Tyler served with?” I ask.
“A restraining order,” she says easily. “And a lawsuit for emotional distress, damages, and to recoup for the entire cost of the wedding since he was cheating. He’s cooked.”
Wilby lets out a low whistle. “This is perfect.”
She shrugs. “He’ll settle out of court. But we won’t have any further trouble from him.”
There’s a knock at the door. Charles comes in and sits in a chair near us.
“Well,” he says. “That was interesting. Did we have to have Tyler served?”
“I meant every word, Dad,” Silvie says. “I’m setting the standard. Something that should have been done a long time ago.”
“You’re rocking the boat with the board, just so you know. But this is effective.”
“And just how are you okay with that?” she asks, tilting her head.
“I never said I was,” he says quietly.
“And yet, you allowed it, encouraged it, and let Mom talk shit and embarrass me at my own company.”
“I’ll handle your mother,” he says.
“Please do. I don’t want her here. Tell her she’s not to come here, and I don’t want her poisoning my workplace with her drama,” she continues. “Things are going to be changing, Dad. Her and Belladonna aren’t welcome in my life. And if you want a place in it, you’d better make sure you act accordingly.”
“I said I’d handle it,” he bites out.
I glare at him, and he doesn’t notice, but Wilby does, and I can tell he’s trying not to laugh.
“I’m going back to Coconut Beach tonight,” she says. “I’m staying there for the time being. I’ll be working remotely and taking meetings. Wilby has my schedule. I’ll fly back if it’s absolutely necessary.”
