Page 84 of Seductive Scoundrel

“So,” I end, letting that one word hang between us.

“So,” Bianca repeats, wrapping me in a warm hug. “That’s a lot to digest. How much of this does Dean know?”

“The photo, the dog, the mistaken identity, and now, the audit.”

“Ah, yes, our Wally boy. He’s such a sweetheart.”

A smile forms on my lips even though I still feel like throwing up. Wally is a ray of sunshine on a very dark day. I wish there was a way that I could adopt him because I’m going to be devastated when someone else does. “Think I can stop by the shelter tomorrow after work? If I even have a job tomorrow.”

Bianca’s eyebrows lift. “Why wouldn’t you have a job?”

I shrug, thinking the reason is obvious. “I’m sure Dex and Dean are going to tell Jane about this mess – not that I blame them,” I rush to add because I would never ask her to intervene, “and then request another auditor. That will set TBA way behind schedule because the next auditor will have to redo everything I did and, of course, I’ll be sent on my merry way.”

“But you told your supervisor. She said there’s no conflict of interest.”

A humorless laugh leaves my lips. “You don’t know Jane. She’ll throw me under the bus without a second thought. She has a big promotion riding on this audit. There’s no way she’ll let anything get in the way.”

“Just a moment,” Bianca says. “I’ll be right back.”

I watch her head down a hallway and as soon as she disappears into a room, I pull out my cell. Nothing from Dean – not even a hate text. But that’s not his style. He’s calm and collected while I’m a basket case. I could probably burn down his building and he still wouldn’t say a nasty word to me.

God, I love him.

And I’m a complete idiot for messing things up – again.

Although there isn’t a single text from the man I love, there is one from the man I loathe.

Kyle: I have some bad news. My team can’t find who leaked that video of us. The opposing candidate is denying any knowledge of it, which means there’s a chance – a very, slight chance – that it might see the light of day. I’m so sorry, babe. I’ll find a way to make it up to you. Promise.

Mia: You already promised me it would be taken care of! WTF Senator?!?! How will you make up for ruining my life?

Kyle: My team is still working on it. I’ll keep you in the loop.

Mia: Fuck the loop and do something yourself for a change.

Kyle: M, please don’t be that way. You know I love you and would do anything for you.

Mia: Like fuck my best friend? Like lie about deleting those pictures and videos? Text me once you’ve handled this situation you caused, and then never again!

Kyle: Don’t be like that, babe.

“Good thing I’m not in Kansas anymore, Senator, or I’d punch you square in that pretty face,” I mutter to the evil rectangle in my hand. Damn technology makes everything so easy, yet so difficult. But it’s Dean’s domain. He could help me, probably would help me even now – but I’d never ask.

“Mia?”

Bianca’s voice makes me jump. “Sorry, I didn’t realize you were standing there.” Or that Dex had joined us. More witnesses to my humiliation – perfect.

“Everything okay?” he asks.

In for a penny, in for a pound as my granny always said. So what the hell?

“Not really. The senator just texted me. His team,” I say, using my fingers to make air quotes, “can’t figure out who leaked the video, and his opponent is denying any involvement.”

Bianca’s mouth drops open. “So the video will be released?”

I nod. “Yup. Well, at least it won’t affect Dean now. That’s one saving grace. Good thing he dumped me.”

Dex looks at his wife and the expression on his face tells me she never said a word about my predicament. The lady is a true friend.

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