Page 95 of Redemption

“I appreciate you being honest with me,” Vaughn said in a detached tone. “But I also have to consider what’s best for Hudson.”

“I know.” Sweat dripped down my back, but I strived to sound professional after he’d insulted me and my relationship with Sloan. I knew he was upset and lashing out, but that didn’t excuse his behavior. “I understand.” I wouldn’t have expected anything less. I hated that I’d betrayed the company—and the man—that had given me so much.

“Technically, I should fire you and send a replacement.”

I held my breath, hoping he wouldn’t do that. But he sounded mad enough that he might.

Finally, he said, “But I’m guessing she doesn’t want a replacement.”

“Correct.”

“Nor do I want to have to explain to her family why we’d be sending one.” He sighed. “I really hate the position you’ve put me in.”

“I know.” I felt shitty about it.

If he left me in place, he was breaking the rules too. But if he pulled me, it would lead to unwanted questions within the company. Among Sloan’s brothers. Potentially with other clients as well.

“Are you sure you’re the best person to keep her safe?” His tone stressed the importance of answering truthfully.

I’d given it a lot of thought, and I wouldn’t have suggested this if I didn’t think I was capable of protecting Sloan.

“I would never let anything happen to her. If you want me to sign something terminating my professional relationship to limit your and Hudson’s liability, I will. But I’m not leaving her.”

“Who else knows about this?” he asked.

“The ex suspects there’s something between us, but I don’t think he’ll be a problem.”

“We’ll keep an eye on the situation.” Vaughn’s tone was curt and to the point. He was pissed.

“Thank you,” I said. “And I’m sorry, Vaughn. Truly.”

“Too late for apologies,” Vaughn scoffed. “I mean…goddamn it, Jackson. You are one of the best. And…” He sighed. “I trust that you’ll refrain from violating the code of ethics again until your assignment ends.” It wasn’t a question.

“Yes, sir. I’ve already discussed it with the principal.”

“Good. Because I’d hate to have to terminate you for cause.”

I didn’t want that either, but Vaughn would be completely justified in firing me for sleeping with the client. Yet he hadn’t.

“Does she know you plan to resign?”

“No. I wanted to talk to you about it first.”

“Good,” he said. “Since you’re determined to finish this assignment, I’d like to wait to formally announce your resignation until after it ends.”

“Understood.” I was more than happy to comply. I’d spent years building and ensuring Hudson’s reputation. I didn’t want to do anything to jeopardize it more than I already had.

“The fewer people who know, the better,” he said. “Including the principal.”

“I’m not sure I’m comfortable with that.” I didn’t want to keep any secrets from Sloan.

“It doesn’t matter. You signed an NDA, agreeing not to disclose components of Hudson’s operation that would compromise our business.”

He was right, but that didn’t mean I had to like it.

“Look…” He sighed. “Regardless of the NDA, I’m asking you to give me some time to figure out how to spin this situation. We hadn’t formally announced your promotion, but everyone expected that you were going to take over the New York office. That would be enough to create instability at Hudson. But when people realize you’re together…” He trailed off, then finally said, “The last thing I’d want is for her family—or anyone else—to question Hudson’s professionalism. Our ability to protect our clients.”

“I know,” I said. “I don’t want that either.”

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