Page 75 of When You Give a Lawyer a Kiss

It’s now past closing, and Mickey and the rest of the staff left an hour ago.

I’m wiping down the reception desk when my phone rings. I frown when I see Martha’s name on the screen, wishing it was Reese since she didn’t text me back after asking where I was, and I had hoped she would stop by or at least call me so we could still talk tonight.

“Hi Martha,” I answer.

“Hey, honey. How are you?” she asks.

“We haven’t heard from you in a few days and wanted to check in,” Colby chimes in.

I toss the cloth I was using to clean into the trash. “Yeah, I’m sorry, things have been busy at the office.” I start pacing the floor, raking my hand through my hair. “I actually quit today to start a new firm.”

Since I started working at Thompson & Tate, Colby was skeptical. Still, he has consistently offered his encouragement. Even after learning about Maxwell’s embezzlement, he encouraged me every step of the way when I dug the firm out of the hole Maxwell put us in.

So, I shouldn’t be surprised when he says, “It’s about damn time.”

“You don’t think it’s a reckless idea?”

“Was it an impulsive decision?” Colby questions.

I scoff. “No, of course not. I’d been preparing for his confrontation for a while now. I’m taking most of my clients and team with me, and I’ve made sure there’s nothing Maxwell can do to stop me,” I state proudly. “I also spoke to my realtor this afternoon, and we found the perfect office with a view of Central Park.”

“There’s your answer, son. Martha and I couldn’t be more proud of you.”

“That’s right. We’re so happy for you, honey,” Martha adds.

A sense of warmth spreads through my chest at hearing their unwavering support. This next chapter in my life will be challenging, but having Martha and Colby in my corner will make it easier.

I can’t help but think of Reese. More than anything, I want her by my side for whatever comes next.

“How’s Reese holding up?” Martha asks when I don’t reply. “She’s going to work with you at the new firm right?” I can almost hear the satisfaction in her voice.

“I hope so,” I say, keeping my reply vague.

There’s a brief silence on the other end of the phone before Martha speaks. “Dawson Cole Tate, what did you do?” She accuses me.

I’d like to refute any wrongdoing but I can’t deny that her motherly instincts are spot on.

I rub the back of my neck as I pace the floor. “I didn’t tell Reese about my plan to quit and start a new firm until after things were finalized with Maxwell,” I admit hesitantly.

“That’s not all is it?” Martha presses, like she can sense there’s more to the story.

“I might have asked her to move in with me during the same conversation. She’s living in the house she inherited from her grandparents, but it’s falling apart around her. I just want her to be safe and more importantly with me.”

“Oh, Dawson,” Martha sighs, her tone tinged with disappointment. “I know you’re used to having things your way, but a healthy relationship means including your partner in the decision-making process.”

“Martha’s right,” Colby interjects. “Communication is key, and the primary reason we’ve stayed together. Her opinion matters more to me than anything else, and I always want to know what she thinks before making a decision, especially when it directly affects her.”

“You’re incredibly driven, but sometimes you jump into situations without considering the impact on those around you. Put yourself in Reese’s shoes. You’ve just started seeing each other, and in a single day, you’ve not only upheaved her job, but are asking her to upend her life by moving in with you.” Martha pauses, giving a moment for her words to settle. “I’m glad that you know what you want, but it’s important to consider Reese’s needs. Otherwise, you risk pushing her away.”

When Martha puts it that way Reese’s reaction at the office earlier makes more sense.

Control has been one of my coping mechanisms for as long as I can remember. Now, I’m beginning to understand that being in a relationship means I have to be willing to compromise if I want to make things work with Reese, even if it’s against my instincts.

I consider what Martha said about seeing things from Reese’s perspective. I wouldn’t have been so polite about having my job upended and being asked a life-changing question without having time to process it.

The last thing I want is to risk losing Reese because of my inability to compromise and give her what she deserves: an equal say in our future.

“You’re right, Martha, I have to… “I trail off when the chime of the bell on the front door rings.

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