Page 111 of If You Give a CEO a Chance

I cross the empty lobby and perch on the edge of Walter’s desk, holding out the container of sliced bread.

“Thank you. This will go great with my second cup of coffee,” he says with a grin.

“My pleasure.”

Walter sets the bread aside, his gaze fixed on me. I bite my lip, glancing at the front door, second-guessing coming down. I’m sure the last thing he wants is to hear about my problems today.

Like he can read my mind, he pats my knee and asks, “Why don’t you tell me what’s bothering you, Miss Fallon.”

“I’m fine,” I say, but my voice betrays me, cracking on the last word.

I’m anything but.

Walter adjusts his cap, his eyes sharp with concern. “Oh really? So, you came to see me when you knew no one else would be around just for the fun of it? Because you look like you’ve got the weight of the world on your shoulders. I won’t push you to answer, but I’m here if you want to talk.”

I swallow the lump in my throat, trying to push down the emotions rising to the surface. Walter has quickly filled the role of the doting grandparent I’ve always longed for. It’s still strange to have someone who listens, genuinely cares, and wants the best for me. Which makes it impossible not to confide in him now, not when he looks at me with patience and compassion, and I know he’ll listen without judgment.

“Do you think I’m a failure?” The question spills from my mouth before I can rein it in.

He recoils, his expression hardening. “Why would you say that? If it was Mr. Stafford, I’ll be having a serious conversation with him when he comes down later.”

I shake my head, resting my hand on his shoulder. “Harrison wouldn’t say that,” I assure him. “I’ve just been thinking about what my grandmother said when she was here.” I bounce my knee, glancing at the floor. “I gave up a steady career for what? Apipe dream of owning a restaurant and publishing a cookbook? Maybe she’s right. I’ll never amount to anything.”

“That’s not true.” Walter’s tone is firm. “I’ve been around enough people like her in my lifetime to know that woman spews nothing but lies, hiding behind her own misery and self-pity. She’s just jealous of your confidence and desire to forge your own path. In simple terms, she’s a bitter woman and her opinion is worthless.”

I give his shoulder a reassuring squeeze, then place my hand in my lap. “You’re a good friend, Walter. I’m lucky to have you.”

“Likewise, Miss Fallon.” He smiles.

He rises from his seat and heads to the coffee station in the corner to pour himself a cup.

“What brought on this self-doubt?” he asks.

He adds splash of hazelnut creamer into his coffee and stirring it slowly.

“I got a job offer from Theo, my old boss,” I admit, finally saying it out loud for the first time since Theo and I talked. “He wants me to manage a new restaurant in London.”

Walter nods thoughtfully, sitting back down in his chair. “It sounds like an incredible opportunity.”

“Yeah, it is. The only problem is that it’s not…” I hesitate, struggling to articulate my thoughts.

“Your dream,” Walter finishes for me.

I nod. “Exactly.”

“So, what’s stopping you from declining?”

“With Theo, I’d have access to brand strategists, a PR team, and an experienced operations manager. With that kind of expertise, success is practically a sure thing.” Walter taps his coffee cup thoughtfully as he listens. “If I venture out on my own, it’ll be a big risk requiring a leap of faith.”

Walter purses his lips. “Hmm. What does Mr. Stafford think you should do?”

Warmth rises to my cheek as I rub a hand across my face. “I haven’t told him yet,” I admit.

Walter blinks in shock, nearly choking on his coffee. I give him a light pat on the back as he clears his throat.

“Are you alright?”

He nods, grabbing a tissue to wipe his mouth. “Why haven’t you told him?”

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