Page 29 of The Wrong Promise

“I know it’s early days between Jobe and I, but I believe in making your plans clear from the early stages of a relationship. No pretenses. Be transparent from the beginning.”

Sir James sits forward so he has Jobe in his view. “You didn’t mention this.”

“No. I’m aware it’s what Zara wants. If we’re together in another six months, then we can discuss it further.”

I peer at Sir James, rather pleased with myself. “He hasn’t run away,” I say with a grin.

Sir James’ lips part into a smile. “No. Even though you were clear with your goals, I like your honesty, Zara.”

“Jobe is wonderful with children. Franklin, Jobe’s brother, and his wife, Penelope, have a daughter. She’s only a few months old, but if Franklin was on a business trip during her pregnancy, Jobe would be the one helping her in any way he could. Penelope is my friend. It’s how Jobe and I met.”

Shit, am I saying too much?

“And seeing how wonderful he is and a fabulous uncle to his new niece, I’m convinced he’ll make a wonderful father.”

“Okay, darling,” Jobe pipes up. “No one wants to hear about me having a soft side. I have a serious business reputation to uphold.”

“I would like to hear.” Sir James leans back into his chair, wine glass in his hand. “There is much I don’t know about Mr. Hendricks.”

I’m unsure if he says it in sarcasm, but it gives my motor mouth a green light. “One night, we couldn’t settle Summer, Penny and Frank’s baby,” I add and glance around the table, making eye contact. “Jobe walked the hallways until she was asleep on his shoulder.” I glance at Jobe and smile as I rub his thigh affectionately. He’s frowning, and his eyes tell me he’s unamused by my storytelling skills. I’m sure he’s a little nervous about what I’ll say next.

Relax, honey. I’ve got this.

There’s something empowering about captivating everyone’s attention at a dinner table. “Diapers.” I wave my hand. “Not a problem.”

“I assumed this a chore for the nanny?” Sir James asks.

“Right? Penelope is grounded and is a hands-on type of mother. She has also requested we all stay involved in Summer’s life, and we rotate babysitting duties so she recognizes us from a young age.” I’m smiling broadly as the words roll off my tongue since it’s not a lie. The immensity of the truth hits me.

It was all my best friend wanted, and I ran out on her.

My throat burns as I’m hit with the reality of my own words. I pick up my drink and take a few sips while the rest of the guests watch on.

Jobe leans into me with a calming hand on my back. “Zara misses them. She is on a working visa for twelvemonths in one of my partner companies. Fortunately, she gets to travel home with me for short breaks to see my family and her friend.”

I nod vehemently, agreeing with his lie. “It’s true. I miss them, but I also want to take the opportunity to absorb everything London has to offer while I’m here. Once I return home, I’ll have no regrets for when I settle into motherhood.” I take another sip of my champagne, but it’s bitter on my tongue.

Why is this such an easy lie for them to swallow? That every woman must yearn to be a mother.

For the last two years, I’ve come to terms with remaining single for the rest of my life, and I’m happier for it. It’s been significantly harder to find peace in not wanting children. The societal expectation is so intense. No one even assumes that it’s a choice. Instead, it’s always a given. My chest aches at having to act the opposite of my truth.

For the next half hour, I remain quiet while the men talk business, delicately breaking my bread and buttering the piece I’m about to eat while leaving the remainder on the plate.

My etiquette is on beat.

The main meals are presented, and I’m relieved the night is coming to an end.

Sir James asks for the bill, then we all stand. Jobe thanks the men for their hospitality and mentions he’ll see them tomorrow.

While Sir James and he continue in quiet conversation, I continue the rouse and step to Clive and shake his hand. “It was lovely to meet you.” Then I step sideways to Harrison. “Thank you again. I hope everything goes well for Rachel. I can’t wait to see photos of your new baby boy.”

“Thank you, Zara. I’ll send the photos to Jobe as soon as he’s born.”

I smile. “I’d like that very much.”

Then I’m standing face to face with Sir James, and our eyes meet. There is no judgment, which surprises me. “Thank you, sir, for a lovely night. It was an honor to meet you.” I hold out my hand to shake his.

Sir James takes my hand, then covers the top of my hand with his other one. “The pleasure is all mine. It was a delight to meet you, Zara.” He looks at Jobe, then back to me. “Don’t be a stranger. If you need anything at all while Jobe is away, please reach out to us.”

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