Page 27 of Cause and Effect

“I can’t make any promises.” She walked out of my office, laughing.

I sighed and leaned back in my chair. “Melinda!”

“Yes, Julian?”

“I’m going to write a few things down. I need you to run to the grocery store, pick them up, and take them to the house. Sam will drive you.”

“You’re kidding, right?”

“Do I look like I’m kidding?” I cocked my head.

“What about your housekeeper?”

“She’s off today.”

“When was the last time you got laid?” she asked.

“Why?” I narrowed my eyes.

“Because I can tell it’s been a while.” A smirk crossed her lips as she turned and left my office.

Chapter Eleven

Laurel

“I’m going to miss you girls so much.” I smiled at them over Facetime.

“We’ll miss you too, Mom,” Stella said.

“Why can’t you come with us?” Sara whined.

“Because I have to work and it’s a special day with your grandparents. I’ll see you tomorrow night. I want you three to be on your best behavior.”

“We will be,” Sophie said.

“I love you girls so much.” I blew them a kiss.

“We love you too, Mom,” they all spoke simultaneously.

After ending the call, I set my phone down and thought about Julian. I wasn’t sure if going to his house tonight was a good idea. Closing my eyes, my mind went to our Facetime call in his boxer briefs. The moment he answered, my eyes instantly diverted to the bulge that was impossible to ignore. Between that and his muscular body, I couldn’t help but take care of myself that night.

The opening of my office door jolted me back to the present.

“Do you have a second?” Parker asked.

“I do.” I smiled, folding my hands on my desk.

“We have a new case that I’m handing over to you. The clients would prefer a female attorney.”

“Why?” My brows furrowed.

He handed me the file. Opening it, I read it over.

“They believe a woman would be more sensitive and understanding,” he said. “Honestly, I’m a bit offended. But they are the clients, and they’re willing to pay whatever it takes. They’re coming in tomorrow morning at nine a.m.”

After finishing up some work, I left the office and ran some errands before heading to Julian’s house. I was a bit curious to see his home and where he lived. Was he a slob? Was he a neat freak? I’d find out soon enough.

As I strolled down the bustling sidewalk toward a store I had been eager to visit, my eyes wandered across the street. Suddenly, I halted abruptly, my heart beating as I spotted a striking familiar figure. The person, a man with a brisk stride and a distinct posture, turned sharply on his heels and disappeared into the crowd before I could fully process the encounter and vanished. Furrowing my brows, I shook my head. I was either really tired or losing my mind.

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