Page 17 of Threaded Lies

“We will have to sell this, Rowan. Be seen at the club. Go out to dinner and socialize. Have an engagement party with friends.”

My worst nightmare.

“We’ll figure that out as we go.” I shove aside his comments like they’re nothing.

He lifts his eyebrows, knowing me well enough to know that is me ignoring the request. “Look. I know this is weird for you, Rowan. I know this isn’t what you want—least of all with me—but I’m just trying to help you save TinSpirits.”

I close my eyes briefly and draw in a long breath. “And I’m the one with everything to lose.”

He snorts and looks at me with a disgust I’m not used to when it comes to him. “Really? That’s what you’re going to say to me?”

“Yeah. It is.” The ring feels so heavy on my finger. I want it off. I want him gone. I want all of this to not be something I need to do.

“You’re acting just like him, you know.”

“Who? Holden?”

“Rhett,” he deadpans.

Well, that’s a slap in the face.

“You’re so full of shit.”

“Entitled. Selfish. Thinking only about yourself?” He lifts his eyebrows and just stares at me. “He’s my friend but I can still call it like it is. Fact is, this is about both of us. You don’t think this puts my job security, my social status, my friendship on the line too? This isn’t just you who would take the fallout, so stop treating me like I’m the bad guy. I’m the one putting his neck on the line to help you. And maybe I shouldn’t until you see it that way.”

His words are a guilt trip wrapped in barbed wire, but one that makes me feel like an asshole nonetheless.

Yes, this is my mission, but Chad’s also the one falling on the sword for me.

Shit.

“Chad.”

“Forget about it.” He waves a hand at me as he turns on his heel and heads to the door.

“Wait.”

It slams and something about the moment has me scrambling after him as the idea that’s been ghosting in the back of my mind for the better part of a week lands front and center.

I fling open the door to see he’s halfway down the path.

“I know how to make this work,” I shout after him and his feet falter. The years and years of patriarchy that weigh on my shoulders ease slightly. “I need your help, though.”

“What’s that? Anything.” There’s an eagerness to his tone despite the moment that just transpired.

My smile is genuine for the first time we’ve been sitting here. I’m more than aware what a bitch that makes me considering the only time I’m sincere is when I’m making the biggest ask of all.

And showing my cards more than I should.

“I need your help with your uncle. I’ve heard you tell a few friends over the years that if they need to bend the law, you can help with that.”

“Row?” He takes a few steps toward me.

“I need you to convince your uncle to bend the law for me.”

SEVEN

Rowan