Page 319 of The Maxwell Brothers
“Sounds like you don’t believe him.”
“I don’t. He’s got no case. I called his bluff, asking for a court date. Instead, his lawyer asked for a meeting. In my professional experience, I’m guessing he wanted to intimidate me. Anyway, I want you to be aware just in case he tries something."
Reese ran a hand through her hair. “I want to be at that meeting.”
I clenched my jaw. “No.”
“Yes.”
“Why?”
“Because this is my mess.”
“He’s threatened to sue me, not you. He’s trying to intimidate me, and that never works. You know that.”
“I do. But he’s going to use me to get to you. That’s why I want to be there.”
I instantly realized she was 100 percent right. Why hadn’t it occurred to me?
“Reese, seeing him will hurt you.”
“I know.” She held her chin high, clearly not about to relent.
“What if I promise not to give in to his demands, no matter what?”
She sighed. “You can’t help yourself, Declan. All your life, you’ve been trying to keep all of us safe. You’re a protector. That’s what you do. I definitely want to be there.”
“Okay,” I relented. “We’ll go together.”
She bit her lip, looking off in the distance. "I really thought I was rid of him. But all these months later, I still get calls from reporters asking for a story. Everyone wants to know why Reese Maxwell didn’t make it to the altar. I shouldn’t have flaunted our relationship in the press like I did."
“You had one article inVogue. That’s not flaunting. You were proud.”
“And hopeful. And I wanted to share my happiness with the world.”
"The reporters will stop eventually."
Reese nodded. “Thanks for telling me. And I’m really sorry.” Her shoulders dropped. She grabbed the coffee cup again, holding it tightly with both hands.
“You’ve got absolutely nothing to apologize for.”
“Tyler almost got kicked off the team because Malcolm instigated a fight. And now he’s after you.”
“Tyler and I both accept the consequences of our own actions. Being stubborn and hotheaded comes with a price.”
“Hmmm, Tyler at least admits to being a hothead. But you hide it well.” She smiled, but it was forced. Fucking hell, I hated Malcolm. “Let’s get back before they all become suspicious,” Reese said.
“Sure.”
“Who else knows?”
“Luke, Travis, and Liz.”
“Liz?”
“Yes.”
She flashed me another smile, and this time, it was real.
