Page 73 of Playing A Risk
“You two weren’t…”
“For the sake of honesty, Ava and I have a long history. Yes, we’ve had sex, but not in years. I never lied to you about that. The thing is, our arrangement wasn’t about media exposure. It was a lot darker than that.”
“Then what was it about?”
“I hurt her pretty badly. When I was twenty, she found out some things about me and was blackmailing me until recently.”
Dorothy’s eyes grow wary. “Blackmailing you? How so?”
“At first, it was for money. I was to fund her lifestyle until she got married. Then it became about me marrying her and giving her an heir to the Efron fortune.” I get up and pace in front of the fireplace. “I was young and stuck with no one to turn to, so I stupidly agreed.”
Dorothy stands and steps in front of me. “Help me understand this? What does this mean for you now?”
“That’s the good news. Ava and I have come to a resolution. She wants to move on and find someone who loves her.” I take Dorothy’s hands. “What it means is I can move on with you and not worry about Ava bringing up the past and holding it over me.”
“I’m confused. If it’s over, why come to me with this now?”
“Because it’s part of why I decided I never wanted children. When that happened, I decided no matter what, there would never be an Efron heir. At least not one from me.”
“Oh, I see.” Dorothy’s gaze scrolls over my face. “Can I ask what she had on you?”
I take a deep breath and get ready to deliver the speech I’ve been practicing in my mind for the last two days. If my dad took it as well as he did, there’s hope Dorothy will.
I release my breath and squeeze her hands. “My mother was behind it all. Not what I did, but getting Ava on board. She wanted us married and Ava pregnant by the time I turned thirty-five. It seems she was the one who wanted the heir.”
“Your mother? I thought she left you. Why would she want?—”
“I don’t know. Ava doesn’t know either. I told my father about this for the first time when I talked to him about your clause. He doesn’t have a clue, so I’m at a loss.”
Dorothy steps away, turning toward the fireplace.
“But Ava’s out of the equation now,” I say.
“How did that happen?”
“My dad went to hers. They agreed to support us and ensure nothing comes from this. Still, I’m afraid my mother is up to something and I don’t want you to become collateral damage. So, if you want to walk away from me, I understand. I wouldn’t blame you if you did.”
Dorothy takes a moment, pacing around the room. I give her time and space because I know this is a lot.
She stops across the room and stares at me. “Hunter, what did you do that allowed Ava that much power over you?”
My chest hardens with guilt. I want to tell her everything, but my therapist suggested I do it gently so Dorothy isn’t overwhelmed. This part will do for now.
The rest will come in a couple of days. It’s all set up, but it’s a plan that could blow up in my face. I’m prepared for the outcome either way.
“I was young and embezzled money from our company. Before you get upset, I’ve paid it all back over the years—before I knew you. My actions were wrong. I wanted to correct them, so I did.”
“And Ava found out and blackmailed you.”
“Yes. That’s why I let Ava control me. I was so scared that if my brother and dad found out, they’d disown me. I’ve been a coward and less than who I want to be. But little by little, I’m getting there. Trust me, I’m trying my damndest to be the man you deserve.”
Dorothy folds her arms over her chest. “I see that. I really do.”
“But…”
“But why didn’t you tell me sooner?”
I stride over to her and place my hands on her shoulders. “Because I was terrified I’d lose you. Terrified I’d lose my dad and brother. And honestly, I was terrified I’d lose my job.
