Page 18 of Bidding War

Oh crap. Personal things. Let’s see. Recently kidnapped, recently fired, and recently single.

“I like horror movies and American nineties music.”

At that, she smirks. “Why horror?”

“When it’s good, it’s unpredictable. Like life. I think horror is probably the most honest genre of film. And women usually come out on top.”

She chuckles. “And American nineties music?”

“It’s kind of chaotic.”

She laughs. “Chaotic?”

“The lyrics are either deeply personal or bordering on nonsensical. The production values are as good as anything we have now, but a lot of it still sounds raw.”

“So you don’t mind a bit of unpredictable chaos?”

Like my life recently? “In small, controlled doses, it’s good.”

That’s good to hear, because things can get a little out of control here sometimes. We have clients of every age, every background, but our legacy clients demand a hands-on experience. Let me cut the crap—they expect to be coddled. Is that something you’re comfortable with?”

I smile at that. “Every one of my clients at my old firm had the same expectations. It’s my wheelhouse.”

“Okay, I’m going to level with you. This isn’t going to do me any good when it comes to negotiating your pay, but you’re perfect for this role, and we are desperate for a new associate. You can expect to hear from us.”

“That’s great! I am so glad to hear that.” This is exactly what I need. Chase and Gordon have a great reputation.

Vera walks me out and shakes my hand by the door. “Be seeing you, June.”

I can’t keep the smile from my face. “See you soon, Vera.” For the first time in years, I actually have a skip in my step. After treating myself to a latte, I get home and hop into the shower to relax. I can’t believe I got a job at Chase and Gordon. It’s small, but prestigious. It will look great on my resume, and I can make some fantastic connections. More than that, it will irritate Elliot once he finds out I’m employed again.

It's perfect.

I get into my cozy loungewear and pour a cocktail to celebrate. This is amazing. I have to text Callie—wait. Email notification on my phone first. It’s from Vera! I click it open and scan fast for the offer.

But it’s not an offer. They’re going with someone else.

No. I’m not taking this lying down. I call Vera up, hoping her assistant won’t block me. To my surprise, Vera answers it herself. “June, how can I help you?”

“You left me with the impression I was your selection. It’s been two hours. What happened?”

She takes a beat. “Are you going to make me say it?”

“Yes. Please.”

“Okay. I am only telling you this because I like you, and if it were up to me, you would be my hire. But you’re being blackballed, June.”

I knew it. I fucking knew it. “How? Who?”

“I mentioned to a legacy client of mine that we’d be hiring you, and they said if I hired you, they couldn’t do business at Chase and Gordon. He said he would tell everyone at the club about it, too. After that, I was bombarded by a bunch of our legacies. All of them would pull out of Chase and Gordon if you were on board here. I’m sorry, but my hands are tied.”

It's all I can do not to start crying. “Thank you for your candor, Vera. I appreciate it. It’s more than I got at my old firm.”

“You’re a great attorney. I’m sure you’ll land on your feet.”

“That’s what I keep hearing. Best of luck to you.”

“You, as well. Take care.”

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