"Not about work. I'm asking about your wedding plans? Care to share them?" she snaps.
"Oh, sorry, my bad. Sonya wants us to finish the project first before we dive into any details regarding the wedding so that we'll be more focused on it," I explain.
Mother nods her head, but I know she's thinking about something.
"You know Grant, I think Sonya's a good find. I mean, the girl's got a good head on her shoulders, and she can really help you out with the company," she mentions.
I know there's a "but" right after that statement.
"But, I'm not comfortable with her having a child. How would you deal with a child who's not even yours?" she asks me.
"Lauralee is a great kid. I've spent some time with her already. Once Sonya and I get married, I'm adopting her as my own," I say.
"I don't think that's a very intelligent choice, Grant. You're just going to get stuck with someone who's using you so that her kid will have a father figure. Not to mention all the money that she'll have access to. Maybe it's time to rethink your plan," she points out.
"You don't know her," I protest. "I love Sonya, and I love everything that comes along with her."
Then it hits me, what I just said to my mother is true. I do love Sonya.
My mother shakes her head.
"Why would someone with your history and reputation want to do anything with the likes of her? That's crazy. Do you know what I think? I think you're trying to scam me. You're just doing this because you want me to give you the control of the company, then you'll use the money and resources for something that I won't approve of," she argues.
I'm silent for some moments. It's true that all that we did just a ploy in the beginning so that I'll be able to take the company. But right now, everything's changed.
"Well, I guess you don't know me, Mother," I start. "I'm not interested in money or even the company anymore. You can do whatever you want to do with it. I just want Sonya."
I excuse myself and stand up from the table, leaving my mother shocked.
Twenty-One
Sonya
I've come to a point where I'm feeling uncertain. It has been a dream of mine to work alongside Gloria Fields, but lately, I keep asking myself if it's still even worth it. It would have been alright if only I could keep things professional between Grant and me.
But as it turns out, keeping our hands off each other poses as a real challenge. Even then, if it were only about sex, I could probably still handle it, but stupid me just had to fall for Grant.
As heavenly as it makes me feel when he touches me, it makes me feel just as shitty whenever I'm reminded that this is all just a business arrangement. Just because he's attracted to me, it doesn't mean that he's caught actual feelings for me. Grant just wants the money.
He never even told me what he wanted to do with the money. It's probably to fund his playboy lifestyle since he's so hesitant to share his plans with me. That is, after all, his reputation.
'Grant doesn't want me.' Of course, he'll get physical with me. It doesn't mean anything to him. He's like that with whatever girl that strikes him as hot. I can't help the bitter laugh that escapes me.
I've known of his ways, yet I still fell hook line and sinker for his charming smiles and thoughtful gestures. I gave too much meaning in his actions, and I stupidly gave in. And now, the pain that I feel is suffocating me.
This whole arrangement was a bad idea. It has brought me nothing but grief and confusion. I was working my ass off before my deal with Grant came into play, but at least my goals back then were clear. Now, I'm questioning everything, and that includes my longtime dream. I hate it.
I have let him into my life. I have let him into my daughter's life, forgetting the simple fact that he was never going to be a permanent fixture in our lives. Staying with him will only make me fall harder, and it will only make Lauralee yearn more for a father. 'He doesn't want you.' the thought echoes yet again.
I try to fight the tears that are threatening to spill. I need to getaway. I need to think. I can't do any of that while I'm so close to my problem. I need to start reevaluating my life.
In my moment of distress, the one thought that seems to be the answer to my problems is Sasha, my sister. She lives in Hudson Valley. It's only a 90-minute train ride away. It's far enough that I may find some perspective of what I need to do.
With Sasha in mind, I immediately look for my phone. I call her, hoping that she'll pick up. After a couple of rings, she finally answers.
Hey, Sonya! It's been a while since you called. What's up?
The comforting voice of my sister has me teary-eyed in a second. It's good to hear her voice again. I've missed her.