She stared at the page. That observation pointed the finger directly at Jack and wasn’t going to win her any friends, but she was used to that. And it didn’t matter. She was here to do what was best for the business, not what was best for her own relationships.
Jack would no doubt be defensive, but his feelings weren’t her problem to deal with.
Evie had done the right thing and her actions should be on the record. Abby felt strongly that people should be given the tools and the support to do the job they were hired to do. Clearly that hadn’t happened in this case.
She stood up and grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge. Her neck ached and her head throbbed.
The sun dipped behind the horizon and she flicked on the table lamp.
She was about to finish her report when there was a knock on the door.
Abby closed her laptop quickly and opened the door.
Tristan stood there holding a tray. “I brought you a peace offering.”
He seemed a lot taller than he had downstairs, but then she realised it was because she’d taken off her shoes.
She glanced at the tray. “An apple?”
“You said you wanted an apple. I took you literally.”
“That’s thoughtful of you. Thank you.”
“I also brought a small taster portion of fish pie, in case you decided you wanted something more substantial. Evie said you took an overnight flight and have been travelling for most of the day. You should eat something.” His voice was gruff. “It will help you sleep.”
“You’re worried about the state of my health?”
“Not really, but I’m worried about the state of my own health if Evie thinks I haven’t been looking after you.” His smile was a surprise. “And I owe you an apology for being grumpy earlier. You caught me at a bad moment.”
“It’s not a problem. You and Evie are clearly close.”
“I’ve known her for a long time. She’s a good person. I look out for her.” Something in his tone made her wonder if he saw her as some kind of threat to Evie’s well-being. Was he giving her a warning?
“Don’t tell me—she’s the little sister you never had?”
“No. I have a little sister, although she’d floor me for describing her that way. Evie is a friend.” His gaze held hers, unflinching. “A good friend.”
Definitely awarning there.
“I’m looking forward to working with her.” She went to take the tray. “Thank you for this.”
He nodded and handed it over. “You look different without the armour.”
“Armour?”
“Heels. Suit. Pristine white shirt. Regimented hair. The intimidating corporate look. That’s what it is, isn’t it? Armour? You’re still wearing the shirt, of course, but this version is more casual.”
She realised that she was so tired she was only wearing the shirt she’d pulled on after her shower. Fortunately, it was decent, but less formal than she would have liked given her present company.
“It’s called dressing for work.”
He nodded. “Armour.” His blue gaze was so intense it was like being interrogated.
“Thank you for the food, Mr Penrose.”
“Call me Tristan, or Tris. We’re pretty informal around here.” He leaned against the door-frame. “So what is your role, exactly?”
Her conscience tingled and she had a desperate urge to glance over her shoulder to check she’d closed her laptop.
