Page 6 of Stuck with Mr. Grump

“Temporarily,” he emphasizes. “You and I both know that it’s the best move we can make right now. At least until the acquisition is over. Go home, to Edenton. Take a breather for a couple of weeks. And if you’d still like to work, you can take over as executive manager at the company’s branch in Edenton.”

He can use all the flowery words he’d like, but it’s pretty clear I’m being sidelined. This cannot be fucking happening to me. Not after how much I’ve dedicated myself to this company. I’ve worked hard all my life to uphold this family’s legacy.

And now it’s becoming clear it might not be my legacy after all.

“I understand,” I reply, keeping my voice steady. What choice do I have but to comply? Grandfather’s word is law. “I’ll do what’s necessary for the company.”

He gives me a curt nod, his expression unchanging. “As expected, Sterling. I’m sure you’ll make the necessary arrangements as well.”

With that, he dismisses me and turns his attention to the documents on his desk, signaling the end of our conversation. The sting of his words linger as I leave his office. When my phone rings for the twentieth time today, I decide to finally pick up.

“Father,” I say, my voice cold.

“Hey, bud. How’s it going?” he questions warmly.

I lean against the wall, suddenly extremely exhausted. At this point, I don’t give a damn who sees me like this.

“Fine,” I mutter. “Where’s my mother?”

“She’s, uh… currently occupied.”

I roll my eyes. “I take it she’s enjoying her vacation then. Meanwhile I’m here having to deal with the fallout of her actions.”

He pauses. “You’re my son, Sterling. You know that, right? No matter what anyone else says.”

Something burns in my chest at his words.

“I know,” I murmur. “When will you be returning?”

“In about a week or so. Your mother is still feeling a little ill.”

“Of course she is,” I say, not believing that in the slightest.

Elana Harrington is probably going to put off dealing with this mess for as long as she can. It’s what she does best.

“Just take care of yourself, alright? Dad told me he’s sending you to Edenton. It might be good for you. Try to rest a little, Sterling. You work too hard.”

“Got it.”

My gaze lifts just as the elevator doors in the hallway swing open. My lips thin when I catch sight of who steps out of it, but a chuckle follows as soon as he sets his eyes on me as well.

“Would you look who it is. Baby brother. I was hoping I’d run into you.”

Irritation coils through me like a lash. He’s the last person I wanted to see right now.

“Spencer’s here,” I tell my father who’s still on the other end of the phone.

I slowly straighten to my full height as he walks toward me. I’ve always been two inches taller than him, one of the various victories I’ve had over him all our lives. Everything has been a competition with Spencer for as long as I can remember.

“Tell him not to be a dickhead,” Dad states.

I scoff. “I doubt he’s capable. Must be those genes.”

“Hey, don’t insult our stellar genes, smartass.”

Despite everything, I manage a small smile. “Bye, Dad.”

“Chin up, buddy.”

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