Page 83 of Broken Daddy

I just can’t shut up. But talking more only makes it worse. “You live this weird mix of fairy tale and struggling artist. You broke off your engagement. Got fired, then had your brother find you a job. You have an apartment, but you’re not living there because some weirdo is stalking you, and I needed to put an entire security system in my home because of it. You lack a sense of responsibility.”

Her face crumples.

“I just don’t see how you think you’re going to make anything work, Gen. You have no regard for others. You make bad choices. And this—” I gesture at her belly, at the baby. Our baby. “You’re setting yourself and this kid up for failure. You think you can make it out there pregnant and alone? With no source of income? Lying to your own brother?”

My pulse is pounding in my ears by the time it’s all out. Regret leaves a bitter taste in my mouth, but at the same time, everything I said feels like the truth.

Or at least, the things I’ve been afraid of since she stepped foot in my life.

Blindly, Gen reaches out and takes hold of the tray. She clutches it like a lifeline. Uses it to create even more space between us when it already feels like an insurmountable distance.

“I didn’t know you felt that way.” Her response is calm and even. And terrifying.

In this moment, I can see the woman she was at The Black Fig—a leader. A source of calm in the chaos of a busy kitchen.

Pressing my lips together, I try to explain. “I just want what’s best for everyone.”

She nods curtly, walking to the far end of the kitchen island so she doesn’t have to pass me. “Yes, it sounds like it. You’re just looking out for the people who matter to you the most.”

Yes,I want to agree, but the words are stuck in my throat. She’s already out of the kitchen, anyway, stepping into the dining room like it’s another world.

Yes, I’m worried about the people I care about. The people I love.

And that includes you.

Chapter33

Genevieve

The call comes early in the morning, although it’s probably late afternoon in Germany.

I recognize the international number from having stared at their website for hours on end. Picking it up, a wave of nausea and lightheadedness hits me.

“Hello?”

“Hello, is this Genevieve Walker?”

“Yes, this is her.” Somehow, my voice is firm and professional.

“Genevieve, my name is Otto Koch. I’m the general manager atUntertasse—Saucer. I’m calling in regard to your application for our executive chef position.”

“Oh, it’s good to hear from you, Otto.” Unless this is bad news… “How can I help?”

The momentary silence on the other end of the line makes my heart pick up its pace. Any second now, I’m going to hear the words.We’re sorry to inform you, but…

“I’m calling to ask you about the accusation that you are having an inappropriate relationship with your current employer.”

It’s like hitting a brick wall going eighty miles an hour.

“Wh-what?”

Silence again. Then Otto speaks firmly. “Ms. Walker, normally I do not concern myself with rumors. But the individual reached out directly to the restaurant’s marketing manager, so there is some concern on their part. Given your otherwise impeccable reputation, your resume, and the preliminary menu you sent to us, I wanted to give you a chance to explain or defend yourself.”

Cold fury floods my body from head to toe. I sit at the desk in my room, clutching the phone to my ear in a death grip.

“Mr. Koch, I don’t know who called you, but I feel that I should make you aware of a situation I’m currently dealing with. Involving the New York City police.”

“Polizei?” Otto repeats sharply. I can hear the rustle of papers, as if he’s taking notes. “Is this something that would affect the possibility of you working with us, Genevieve?”

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