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As much as I want to argue and reject the idea outright, he has a point, and I have already signed the contract. Everything is in the works. “No promises.”

He pulls me into a quick hug. “That’s my little sis. Knew you’d come around.”

I roll my eyes and shove him towards the door. “I said, no promises.”

“Yeah, yeah.” He taps my back.

“Now get out of here before I change my mind.”

He chuckles and heads out as I slump onto my bed.

A few minutes later, I receive a message from Amelia, my contact at the design department.

Amelia: Hey, Gem. Thanks again for sending us the finished drafts. We would like to feature you in a blog article and some magazines. Getting the ball rolling. Would you be able to meet with our PR tomorrow?

Gemma: Sure, when should I come by the office?

Amelia: Around 10.30 at Oakdale Avenue.

Wait. That’s Elijah’s address. Does he think I’m stupid?

Gemma: Why can’t we meet at the office?

Amelia: To put it simply, she won’t leave her home. But she also never did a personal interview. You’ll be meeting with Novalie Milton. So ask at the reception, and they’ll guide you. Does the time work?

The time is not the problem. It’s Elijah playing his tricks again, and it’s pretty obvious this time. Novalie Milton, of course. Convenient that she lives in the same building. Well, I’ll show him there’s nothing but business left between us.

Gemma: It’s perfect. I’ll be there. Thanks.

Amelia: Great, I’ll inform her. And don’t be shy about sending us other designs. Let’s meet in the next two weeks to discuss our next steps.

Gemma: Love to.

Business it is.

Chapter 22

“Can I help you?” The receptionist looks up from her computer as I approach the front desk.

“Yes, I have a ten-thirty appointment with Novalie Milton. I was told to ask for her at reception.”

“Let me check our directory...” She types away. “I’m sorry. I don’t see a listing for anyone by that name.”

Of course not. Because this Novalie person doesn’t exist. It’s another one of Elijah’s ploys to get me here. Anger bubbles up, but I force it down. I will not cause a scene.

“Are you sure?” I ask calmly. “Amelia from Milton Global gave me this address. It was definitely for today at ten thirty.”

“Hmm…” The receptionist types on her computer.

“What about Elijah Milton? Can I go up to see him?”

“Let me call up to Mr. Milton to check. One moment, please.” She picks up the phone, and I resist tapping my foot as I wait.

Elijah and his games. This meeting will be quick.

“Mr. Milton? I have a young woman here for a ten-thirty appointment with a Novalie Milton.” A pause. “Oh. I see.” Putting her hand over the receiver, the receptionist regards me. “What is your name, Ms.?”

“Gemma. Gemma Barron.”

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