Page 92 of Free to Run
Actually, it suits my purposes perfectly.
“That actually works just fine, Jared. I plan on leaving today,” I say.
Jared’s phone buzzes. He looks down at it. “That’s reception. Should I hazard a guess who’s down there?”
“I imagine it’s Keene,” I reply flatly. “That’s why I asked about the protection clause of the firm, Jared. I need to know if that kicks in immediately.”
“It does,” Jared says.
“Then please, ask security to have him removed from the premises, as I am in a conference. He’s not a client of mine, and he’s here to harass me.”
“Jesus, Ali. What did he do?” Jared’s clearly in shock.
“If you want to deliver that message in person, why don’t you see if he still has another woman’s lipstick all over him? They seemed to be enjoying themselves in his office this morning when I dropped by.” The cold in my voice could freeze an inferno.
Jared’s only outward reaction to what I just said is the mild flaring of his nostrils. “I’ll call down to security from my office. You have some files to review, and I’m sure you want to make some phone calls. You’re welcome to do both from here.” Jared gestures around the beautiful partners’ conference room.
Standing, I hold out my hand. “I also have a resignation letter to draft.”
He shakes my hand. “Not a leave of absence?”
I shake my head. “No. I’m confident my services are no longer needed at Amaryllis Events.” Especially after last night’s phone call with Cassidy.
His hand tightens over mine in compassion. “After your initial assignment, you’re welcome to stay on with us, Ali.”
Tears of gratitude well. “Thank you, Jared. For everything.”
“Ali, if you weren’t half the attorney you are, I wouldn’t be able to do this. Be proud of who you are and what you do.” His lips tip up sadly as he leaves the conference room, closing the door softly behind him.
Dropping back down into the soft leather chair around the table, I pull the legal pad closest to me to begin making a list longhand.
I don’t realize I’ve stopped until the tears hit the hand holding my pen, and pain from my clenched jaw radiates out. There’s no way this is going to be any easier waiting any longer.
I know I’m right. I can’t stay with Keene anywhere in the vicinity.
But the person who has stood beside me throughout is going to be brokenhearted when I ask her for the largest favor of a lifetime–to let me go. Slowly, I pick up the phone and dial the kitchen at Amaryllis Events.
One ring. Two.
“Please tell me it’s you calling, Ali, and not Jared.”
“It’s me,” I say. And on those two words, I break. The sobbing starts again harder than before.
How did I think I could hold on to my emotions once I heard Corinna’s voice?
“Thank the Lord you’re calling me. They’re going crazy looking for you. And I mean crazy.” Corinna’s drawl is exaggerated.
“Cori, I can’t talk long.”
“Sister, it doesn’t sound much like you can talk at all. If it’s that bad, he better not walk in my kitchen.” Her viciousness on my behalf sets me off on another round of crying.
“Cori, I have to go,” I manage to get out.
“I know, babe. What are you going to do?”
“No, Cori. I have togo.” My emphasis on the last word and silence penetrates.
Corinna’s soft reply is, “Oh, Ali. No…”
