The lift hummed downwards.
Mitch studied the tablet again, though I’d bet the numbers had nothing to do with his thoughts.
Finally, he spoke. “You’ve worked twenty years building what you have.”
“You say that like I’m unaware.”
“It would be unfortunate if distractions interfered with that.”
I laughed under my breath. “I don’t pay you to a million bucks a year to avoid saying what you mean.”
“I’m saying you’re involved with someone you barely know.”
“That’s how getting to know someone works.”
“You met her two weeks ago.”
“And?”
“And people notice things.”
“Such as?”
He hesitated. Always so careful. Mitch had mastered the art of saying offensive things without technically offending anyone. “For example, your sudden change in availability. The disappearance from your team. The extended hotel stay. Certain… expenses.”
Ah, there it was.
“You think she’s after my money.”
“I didn’t say that.”
“You implied it.”
“I’m simply pointing out that rapid attachments sometimes attract opportunists.”
I pushed away from the wall. “You’ve met Bonnie exactly zero times.”
“True.”
“So perhaps keep your theories to yourself.”
Mitch raised both hands in surrender. “I only want what’s best for you. Would you permit me to send an NDA and direct a lawyer?”
“I would not,” I said evenly. “What’s best for me is not being treated like an idiot.”
The lift doors opened, and we stepped into the underground parking level.
Mitch followed beside me. “I apologise if it sounded that way. I’ll try to phrase my concerns better.”
“There’s a good start.”
We reached the car waiting near the exit.
My phone buzzed with a call from an unknown number.
I almost ignored it. Then instinct nudged me to answer.
A female voice came through the speaker. “Hi, um, Elijah?”
