Page 177 of Thorns of Malice

She replies, "Okay, Mr. Carrington. Do you want that on Zoom, or do you want that through Google Meetings?"

I groan, running my hand through my hair, snapping, "I don't give a fuck, Michelle. Just set it up and send the link."

"Yes, sir," she says.

I hit the button on the intercom and shake my head, wishing once again that my regular assistant was back.

The TV has the photos of Dyer and Avery back on the screen.

I pick my cell back up and text Ivy.

Me: I need Matt Montague's number.

Ivy: Why?

Me: Please don't ask me questions right now. Can I have it?

She sends it over to me.

Me: Thanks, baby girl. I need one more favor.

Ivy: What is it?

Me: Can you ask him to take my call?

A few moments pass.

Me: Please.

Ivy: I don't know if that's a good idea. Why are you contacting him anyway?

Me: You have to trust me. Please.

More minutes pass. I hate the dropping in my gut.

Me: You still don't trust me. I thought you told me you were going to.

Ivy: This isn't about trust. It's about Matt. I don't want to hurt him further.

Me: I promise you I'm not going to hurt him. Please just trust me. Tell him I need five minutes, and he won't regret it.

Ivy: Okay, I'll try.

Me: Thanks, baby girl.

I send a text to Matt.

Me: It's Dax Carrington. I know I've been a dick to you in the past. I apologize. You don't owe me anything, but I hope you'll give me five minutes. I promise if you do, you won't regret it.

Twenty minutes pass, and I get another text.

Ivy: I talked to Matt. I don't think he's going to call you.

I groan.

Ivy: I'm sorry. I tried.

Me: It's okay, gorgeous. I appreciate it. Can you send him another text for me?

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