Page 120 of Emergence and Ascendance

I smiled wider and gave her something that would change the subject, because honestly, I didn't want to discuss my feelings-good or bad-about my father. "I promise I'm okay, Tez. Christian is here."

"Here? As in New York?"

"Yes, he came to surprise me after the board meeting but found out about my father and stayed with me last night."

"Damn, that was fast. You went from contract dick to support dick. I'm loving this for you."

I rolled my eyes. "As horrible as that sounds, thank you."

"Do I get to meet Sexy Enemy?"

I cringed. This was my girl but I didn't even think I could stay for her. I needed to breathe and I wouldn't be able to do that here. "Um, we're actually heading out, so not this time."

"You're leaving?"

I sighed. "Yes, there's no point in me being here."

"Scot, are you sure you're okay? I get things were bad between the two of you…"

I cut her off. "I'm really okay. I just… this is what I need. Don't be mad at me, please."

"Girl, why the hell would I be mad? If he's got you then that's all that matters. Let that man be your rock…" she paused. "…hard dick."

I barked a laugh and shook my head. "He's definitely been that but it's more than sex, Tez. I'm in trouble," I said quietly.

"Is it more for him too?"

He was here, showing me that it was. I felt his intentions.

"Yes."

"Then don't overthink things. Just run with it and live in the moment."

"This is hard for me but I'm trying and I promise not to get in my own way."

"Good because we both know you love doing that shit."

I grinned. "I would be offended but you're right."

"Girl, there isn't a damn thing to be offended by. You feel how you feel because of the things you've been through. Just give this a chance, okay?"

"Okay."

"Hugs."

"Big hugs."

I ended the call and headed back upstairs where I found my bed empty but I heard the deep rasp of Christian's voice coming from the bathroom. I moved in that direction, pausing when I overheard the last thing he said.

"I expedited the filing process especially for that reason. Scotlyn owns the property, it's legalized and on record. When I found out Parker was planning to challenge the validity of the purchase, I didn't want to take any chances. This was important to her. I told him not to go that route but it seems his comprehension is lacking. I guess I'm going to have to remind him that I'm not fucking playing about this."

I frowned and walked into the bathroom where I found Christian leaning against the counter, facing me in joggers and no shirt, looking like the perfect temptation. His eyes were on me as soon as I crossed the threshold.

"Ez, let me go. We can talk when I touch down. Yeah. Not sure but I'll hit you up."

After he lowered his phone and placed it beside him on the counter, I asked what the hell that was about.

"Who is Parker?"

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