The second she opened her mouth
Luke
Even before walking into the O’Briens company, I knew our contract termination process wouldn't be smooth sailing. I’d prepared every scenario in my head, ready with a reply. What I’d say when they tried to bully me into staying. What I’d say when they mention Julie’s name because, of course, Julie must be mentioned.
She’s in my house. All the changes she’s gone through these past few weeks have been since she met me. So I knew there’s no way Ryan would let me leave this meeting without making that fact known at least once: that I stole his wife and am now punishing him by pulling the plug on our partnership deal.
What I didn’t expect, however, is Adeline politely asking me to stay.
When you’re so far along in a battle, any glint of peace takes you by surprise.
“I beg your pardon?” I say.
Adeline clears her throat. “I tried my best to raise my son to be a good and productive member of society. But sometimes, children don’t always turn out how you want them to. They don’t listen. They marry beneath their status. They try to create half-breed babies.” She turns to look at Emily with disgust in her eyes before turning back to face me with a sweet smile. “And they don’t know the most important rule of business: business is business. So, Mr. Martinez, please forgive my son as I try to correct his mistakes.”