Page 38 of Her Filthy Mistake

“Do you want me to give him a first warning or a final warning?”

I study my reflection in the mirror–clear eyes, tan skin, and full cheeks. I look good. Healthy. Clean. But as much as I want those things for everyone else, I can’t will it on another person any more than my family could when I was struggling. “I’ll call him and let him know he’s fired. Tell security not to let him in the building for work or entertainment and increase camera monitoring. Make sure everyone has his employee photo and physical description.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, I’m sure. We can’t tolerate people using on the job. It would be one thing if he was using outside of work and coming in sober, but he’s not. He’s using when he disappears.”

“And hiding out to make sure no one notices?”

“No, he’s losing time. He’s going into the bathroom, using, and likely nodding off.”

“Okay. Are you sure you want to do it? I can call him. You’re supposed to be enjoying your break. You know you never even take two days off at once.”

“It’s fine.” She gave me his number and I waited for the call to go through.

“Yeah?” The voice sounds vaguely like Adrian, but it’s tinged with paranoia.

“Adrian, it’s Jace.”

“Oh, hey. How goes it, man?”

“I’m well, thank you. Everleigh called and said you’ve been coming in late and abusing your break times. She was concerned you’re using, which is why she called.”

“She can’t know that. No one has….” Even though he trails off, I know what he was going to say. No one has seen him.

“Let me correct myself. She described your behavior, and I know you’re using on the job. We’re letting you go.”

“Fuck you, man. That’s bullshit! She hasn’t got anything on me, and you’re listening to her. What are you, her bitch? Are you sneaking around behind Victor’s back and sticking it to his old lady?”

“You need to stop.” My teeth grind together as the hate and venom fall from his lips. It disgusts me that in the past, I would’ve responded in this same way. Hell, I did respond like this. “I know the behaviors people display when they’re using, and I decided to relieve you of your position.”

“Well then, you know how it is. I just need a little bump at work to make it through the shift. It’s not a big deal.”

“Yes, it is. You’re missing over an hour of your shift. Now, you’re coming in late. This puts the rest of the staff and the clients at risk of getting hurt. I take pride in our reputation of being a clean and safe place in Vegas to visit. I’m not salvaging that reputation because you need help.”

“I don’t need help. I’m fine. I’ve got this all under control.” His voice is harsh and razor-edged.

“You need to get into rehab. Or go to a meeting.”

“Fuck you. I don’t need anything, and I don’t need advice from you. You’re a washed-up singer who thinks he’s a big deal because he has a female boss who tells him what to do. But it’s the opposite, it makes you a fucking pussy with no balls.”

The line goes dead. Well, that went well.

Two seconds later, I have Everleigh on the phone. “It’s done. He’s pissed and hurling insults. But I think the business will be okay. He’s geared his rage toward me.”

“Did he threaten you? I’ll call the police.”

“No. Nothing like that. He said I was a washed-up musician who was a pussy for a female boss.”

“Asshole.” Her chair squeaks as she rises upright. I don’t have to be there to recognize the sound. “You’re a fabulous songwriter and singer. I’ve not changed my mind. You’re welcome to sing at the club or at one of the casinos.” She instinctively knows which insult bothered me the most.

“Thank you. I appreciate your support.” There’s no way I’m accepting her pity offering of a singing gig. “Keep an eye out for him, but I don’t expect any problems.”

When I’m off the phone, I kick the trashcan. He isn’t wrong. I’m a washed up has been. With a soft spot for rescuing people who don’t appreciate it. That’s always been my downfall.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Zoe

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