Page 136 of Midnights
“Well,” I begin, returning his sharp smile with one of my own, “what you see is pretty much what you get with us. Steven keeps a close eye on his internal team, making sure everyone is aligned and working toward the same goals. Communication is key with him.”
I pause, letting the silence stretch just enough to get his attention. “I do have one question, though,” I lean in slightly. “What’s one decision you’ve made as a CEO that keeps you up at night, and how do you justify it to yourself?”
For a fraction of a second, his mask slips.
He leans back slightly, tapping his fingers against his empty wine glass like he’s considering his next move carefully.
“I don't lose sleep, Raven. Every move I make is accounted for. I don't second guess. I execute.”
He continues, keeping his voice steady. “Every major decision comes with its share of sleepless nights. The key is making sure the wins outweigh the losses.”
Classic. A non-answer wrapped up in a pretty bow.
I mirror his smooth smile, clearing my throat. “Well, as long as you’re confident you can keep up, I guess I’ll just have to take your word for it.”
He lifts his water, taking a drink.
“Well, as you know, true success comes from addressing the root of any problem,” he says smoothly. “Once you eliminate that, and build from a solid foundation, you can achieve anything.”
“Interesting,” I nod, absorbing his words. They’re polished, but there’s something about them that I can’t quite put my finger on.
I pop another tomato in my mouth, closing my eyes and savoring the fresh, tangy burst of flavor. When I open them, he’s watching me.
“If you’ll excuse me, I need to use the restroom.” he mutters, standing up with a tight smile before heading off.
I nod, waiting until he’s out of sight before immediately looking down at my phone. I quickly try to schedule a ride, but there's nothing but the dreaded spinning wheel.Fantastic.
If there's no drivers now, what are the odds I'll find one when we’re actually done? The idea of being stuck here after we wrap up doesn't exactlysound appealing. Not that Mike’s giving off serial killer vibes, but I’d rather not test my luck.
A quick glance down the hallway confirms I've still got a minute.
With a sigh, I decide it’s time to swallow my pride. Kane said I could call if I needed anything, and while this isn’t exactly an emergency, it feels like a solid enough reason.
Sure, I might regret this later, but waiting around isn’t an option.
Me: You busy?
I hesitate, wondering if I sound too casual. Or worse, needy. But I hit send before I can overthink it.
A beat passes with no response, so I add another message.
Me: No worries if you are! I’m at this diner, and my phone is being weird. I’d rather not wait around with Magic Mike after the meeting.
With a groan, I start to type again, trying to backpedal.
Me: Never mind.
I lock my phone and slide it onto the table, determined not to obsess over Kane’s response. My nerves are already frayed, and the last thing I need is to spiral over a text.
I’m a big girl. I can check the app later.
I barely finish the thought, when my phone buzzes.
Kane : Does this diner have a name?
My heart skips a beat. No hesitation, no questions. Typical Kane.Thank God.
I look up just in time to see Mike heading back toward the table. I quickly send my location, locking my phone and setting it down before he slides back into his seat.
