Page 100 of Just My Ex

“I’m sorry, Carla,” I say. “You’ve done a lot for me and I’m grateful, it’s just that—”

“Nope. I won’t accept your resignation, you ignorant fool.” Carla’s voice has an undercurrent of levity, but to someone who doesn’t know her, it might sound intimidating.

“Switzerland was a great experience, but it’s time to transition to something with less travel. My brother’s company can offer that.”

“Nope,” Carla says again.

I laugh. “Carla, do you want to tell my three-year-old daughter yourself that her daddy has to leave again?”

“Goodness, no. Geez, Henry. You know I don’t do kids. It’s just that—at the risk of giving you a big head, I’m just going to say you’re the best agent I’ve got.”

“I know.” I say with a laugh. “I am the best you’ve got. But we talked about training Murphy or Liz on how to help the Ostlins. That’ll still work?”

“Will it work? I guess. Is it ideal? No. The Ostlins won’t be happy. Evangeline loves you like a grandson.”

I meet Quinn’s gaze and she’s got a sad smile, her brows in the air. “I’ll talk to her,” I tell Carla. “I promise I’ll do everything I can to help in the transition.” I wasn’t allowed to say anything about the changing of the guard with Evangeline, and it’s going to hurt when I do.

“What about the big convention in Bordeaux the Ostlins put on every year? Can I get you for that? We never have enough help as it is.”

There’s a long pause and Quinn and I have a whole conversation just through our eyes.

Quinn:One event a year could be doable.

Me:I’d rather make a clean break, but I wouldn’t mind considering it.

Quinn:Well, hurry and get off the phone so I can kiss you.

At least that’s what I’m imagining she’s thinking there at the end.

Quinn and I? We’ve gotten a fresh start and I’m grateful.

“I think that’s a possibility,” I tell Carla.

Carla sighs heavily through the phone. “I’m going to hold you to it. And if the Ostlins end up choosing a different company because of this, I’m going to sue you for everything you’ve got. And then some.”

Quinn’s eyes grow even bigger, but I quickly get off the phone to reassure her.

“Carla’s all bark and no bite.”

“A lawsuit isn’t anything to sneeze at, Henry.”

“She can’t sue. I’m an at-will employee. I’m not in breach of contract. It’s going to be fine.”

“Are you sure about this?” she asks, sliding her hands around my waist so we can hug.

We’ve been doing a lot of hugging lately here at our house in Irvine. It’s a gift I wanted desperately but wasn’t sure I’d get.

“Am I sure about us? Yes. Without a doubt.”

“And selling the house and moving to Longdale?” she asks.

“I am sure about that part, but only if you are.” I pause to kiss her collarbone.

She sighs contentedly at my touch. “I’m sure.”

“Has your mom heard back about her job interviews yet?”

She kisses my chin and then along my jawline. “She just texted me. She got two offers today. One from a hospital in Golden and another from a rehab center in Highlands Ranch. She’s weighing her options.”

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