Page 80 of The Wrong Promise

She’s had a busy week with her new human resources role. It’s finally happening for her, and seeing her happy, listening to her discuss her ideas for the company, gives me equal happiness. We are similar in some ways.

Before I enter the meeting, her name flashes on the screen.

I’m heading out with Piper and George. I’ll see you at home later tonight.

George.I rub circles over my temples. It’s not that I don’t like her friend. I don’t trust him. I was warned he is agossiper and has caused trouble by spreading rumors in the past. He doesn’t hide the fact he is not a fan of mine. Not that I want the staff to like me. I need them to do their fucking job.

Piper, on the other hand, is good for Zara.

Okay, Zara Hart, I’ll see you at home.

Zara Hart. If I were being cheesy, I could replace her name with the heart emoji.The fuck?Why would I do that? A notification crosses my screen.

Harrison James.

Would you like to meet for a drink tonight?

Interesting. Harrison made it known he wants to move forward with my company after the takeover with him as the CEO. I like Harrison and respect his value to the company.

Name the place, and I’ll be there.

23

ZARA

George has been givingme odd vibes all night, and I sense he is judging me.

When I clink my glass against Piper’s glass, he comes to sit beside me. “Did you know your boyfriend was going to take over the company?” His expression has soured while the rest of us have become tipsier by the glass and laughing out loud at any trivial joke.

“Of course I didn’t,” I snap. “And don’t come at me. I’m not in the mood for your jealous bullshit.”

“Zara,” Piper gasps, shaking her head so as not to antagonize him.

“We are having a casual fling, and I know nothing about his business dealings,” I confirm. “When it was announced, I was also pissed, but I have no right to know any of his business dealings, nor should he tell me as I’m with him on a personal emotional level and not a professional one.”

“Yet you were selected for a promotion despite workingat the company for a matter of weeks. It’s obvious you received special treatment.”

“What’s obvious is my experience and past record of competency since you’re ten years younger than me.”Douchebag.

“You’re being a touch mean,” Piper whispers.

“Seriously?” I shake my head.

“Anyway, darlings, I must go.” George stands and blows fake kisses toward Piper and me.

“Are you watching the game tomorrow?” she asks him.

“Of course. See you there.” He gives me a sideways glance before sauntering away.

“You’re watching the game tomorrow? Where?” It hurts not to get an invite.

Piper lets out a loud sigh. “You’re caught up on weekends with your boyfriend when he’s in town. We assumed you wouldn’t be available,” she says apologetically.

“You can always ask. At night, Jobe is often busy with business matters and spends hours talking on his cell.”

Piper tilts her head at me. Her eyes hold understanding. “How serious are you?” I frown at her. “What feelings do you have for him? Can you see a future with him?”

“We all hope for a future with a partner we like. So yeah, when we’re together, we’re great, but he’s so busy, and the weeks he is away, I also enjoy my time alone.” I shrug. “So I have no idea where it’s leading, but for now, it works.”

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