Page 103 of Only Forever

“Hey!” I slap the side of his head. “Behave.”

He sighs before sitting back. “I guess you want to know what happened.”

“Can you tell me?”

Board meetings are confidential. I should have considered this before I rushed over here intent on learning the truth. Academically, I know emotions can influence decision-making. I’ve just never experienced such an impact on my own decision-making until today.

He scoffs. “Of course, I’m going to tell you.”

“I didn’t ask if you were going to tell me. I asked if you’re allowed. If you’re not allowed, perhaps I should leave.” I attempt to stand but he holds tight to me.

“You’re not going anywhere,” he grumbles. “And I don’t give the first shit if I’m supposed to tell you or not. You are involved in this mess.”

Involved in this mess? His words don’t offer any comfort.

“Brandi told the Chairman of the Board we’re involved.”

I gasp. “What? I didn’t think she knew.”

“She must have walked in on us at some point.”

As much as I want to rush off to scold Brandi for intruding on a private moment, there are more important matters to discuss.

“And what did the board decide?”

“Leonard wanted to fire me, but I convinced him the shareholders won’t support his decision. We agreed I’ll take an unpaid leave of absence until he has a chance to consult with them.”

“And what happens when the shareholders agree with his decision?”

He squeezes my arms. “That won’t happen.”

I scowl. “You don’t know what will happen. Answer my question.”

“If the shareholders agree with Leonard, he’ll fire me.”

I gasp and push to my feet. I pace the room as I consider the situation. I don’t need to wait for the shareholders’ decision. It’s obvious what they’ll do. Beckett violated the company policy, and he will be punished for his actions.

While I remain unscathed. This doesn’t seem fair. I’m as much a participant in this affair as he is. And he’s the CEO. This will be a black mark on his record. Finding another CEO position under normal circumstances is difficult. With a black mark on his record, his search will be even more limited.

I, on the other hand, can procure another position as an environmental engineer at any number of firms. There’s only one thing to do.

“No,” Beckett grumbles.

“No what?”

“I can see the wheels turning in your humongous brain. No.”

“Brain sizes are—”

“Stop. You are not using your vast array of knowledge to throw me off the topic. I won’t be deterred.”

I frown. How does he know I use trivia as a way to change a topic I’m uncomfortable with? “What is the topic?”

“You are not quitting your job.”

“It’s the most logical course of action.”

“Why? Why is it the most logical course of action?”

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