Page 55 of Silver Fox's Secret Baby

At five, Henry appeared again. He was pleasant on the ride toward the ocean where our dinner meeting was being held. But there was still a distance that I’d created with my remark at lunch that showed a lack of appreciation toward Henry. But at least he wasn’t cool like he’d been when I arrived back from my dinner with Lucas last week.

At the restaurant, Henry introduced me to Larry Stillson who was around Henry’s age, and like Henry, he wore his age well. He greeted me with a firm handshake, his eyes friendly and curious.

"I’ve been hearing good things about you from Henry and from Tyler Hawly,” Larry said as we sat. Tyler was the head of online content at the paper.

“I’m pleased they’re happy with my work.”

“I’ll admit, I have concerns with the Internet. One wrong move and it becomes a shitshow. I’m sure Alan has been telling you the same.”

I nodded and realized that as head of all marketing, Alan was a part of marketing decisions made for the paper as well. “Yes, but he’s offered his two cents as well. He’s cautiously onboard.”

“Let’s hear what you’ve got for us,” Larry said.

“Of course. First, I want to emphasize that this isn’t all me or what I’ve come up with. You and your team know your market and data better than I do. My job is to assess and give feedback and provide ideas or even guardrails. You have a really great team. They’re creative and enthusiastic.”

“Good to know.”

I went on to explain the ideas that we’d developed so far and what that would mean for the website and social media platforms. I also reviewed the content policy.

“Finally, I’ve been working with them on leveraging data analytics beyond what they’ve been doing so far so they can target better across the platforms.”

"Data-driven decisions. I like that. But how do you plan to balance creativity with the need for measurable results?"

I glanced at Henry who was sitting quietly. He gave me an imperceptible nod that felt like I’d just won the lottery. In that small gesture, he was telling me that I had this, that he trusted my work. I’d remembered times when I was his intern when he’d done something similar. I’d mentioned it to my mother, and she’d told me that Henry was like a surrogate father, giving me the accolades and encouragement that my father hadn’t. Once I started sleeping with Henry, that analogy got creepy, but perhaps there was something to the need for acknowledgement.

"Great question. Encouraging regular brainstorming sessions is key so everyone feels heard and valued. This fosters innovation while still keeping an eye on metrics to make informed choices,” I responded.

"Sounds promising. What about addressing potential negative feedback or controversial topics that might arise? Like I said, one little thing taken the wrong way can cause a lot of problems."

“Well, for one, we have the policy. Second, there is a review process. While news moves fast, editorials or opinions can be screened. Transparency and open communication are essential. We'll address any concerns head-on and learn from them, all while maintaining the brand’s integrity."

I caught Henry's eye, again noticing the hint of pride in his gaze. My chest swelled with emotion. This man meant so much to me not just professionally but personally. It was agonizingly frustrating that I couldn’t be with him.

"I must say, I'm impressed with your approach, Samantha.” Larry turned to Henry. “You were right. It’s too bad you’ll be losing her.”

I looked at Henry in surprise. While he’d told me Larry would be a good contact for my business, I hadn’t realized that he’d told Larry that I planned to start one.

“Not if we contract with her,” Henry said.

“We should probably get on her list now. I suspect she’ll be in high demand.”

I held up my wine glass. “I’ll drink to that.”

Henry and Larry clinked their glasses with mine.

After dinner,I settled into the rideshare next to Henry feeling on top of the world.

"Tonight was a triumph, Samantha. You've come so far in these last five years, and I couldn't be prouder."

I loved the praise and hated it too. Coming from Henry, it only made me feel like the worst person in the world. "Thank you. Your support means more than you know."

“I’m glad I could help.”

“I was surprised you mentioned my plans to Mr. Stillman.”

“As I said, he’s well-connected. He’ll be a good source of referrals.”

I remembered how I’d dismissed him as a mentor last night. While asking him to help me wouldn’t fix all the guilt I was feeling, maybe it could show him how much I appreciated his support.

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