Page 14 of Lost Without You

Rachel rolled her eyes and made a gagging noise and Ethan couldn’t help the chuckle that escaped him.

“Not this woman. I mean, he could, in theory, be an okay guy. I shouldn’t stereotype, but he strikes me as cold and controlling. I didn’t like the way he sized me up when I first walked in.” She paused and met Ethan’s gaze. “I can tell you one thing—he wasn’t happy seeing us. His posture was rigid and defensive, despite his effortless words.”

Ethan nodded. “No one likes being questioned. It’s human nature. His reaction is very common.”

“Even the flinching?” Rachel asked.

“No, that was a tell. He’s hiding something,” Ethan murmured.

“They probably have corporate skeletons they don’t want us digging up. And let’s face it, you have to be ruthless to get to the top in this city.”

“True,” Ethan replied as they stepped out into the hallway.

The 74thfloor was done in the same design as the one above with white walls, black furniture, and lots of impressive art on the walls.

“Good afternoon, how may I direct you?” A young man with sandy colored hair greeted them from behind a sleek reception desk.

“Ethan Blackwell and Rachel Desoumas. We’re here to see Helen Iris, Zoe Clarke, and Lloyd June.”

“Yes, Mr. Harrison’s assistant called me. You can have a seat while you’re waiting,” he directed them. “Can I get you anything in the meantime?”

“A coffee, one cream, two sugars would be lovely thanks,” Rachel replied with a big smile and the young man returned it.

“I’ll have the same,” Ethan replied, but the receptionist was already on his way around the desk. “Or not…”

“Don’t worry, I’ll share mine.” Rachel winked at him, and his heart kicked up.

He gave his best smile in return. “I don’t know if that’s safe for me. What will happen if you miss out on your caffeine?”

Rachel laughed as they wandered over to the nearest sectional and sat down. The receptionist came back into the room and placed Rachel’s coffee on the table in front of them.

“Ms. Iris and Mr. June will be with you shortly. I’m Dean, please let me know if you need anything else.”

“We’re fine, thanks,” Ethan answered as Dean walked away.

“I heard from my brother this morning. They’ve booked a table at 8:00 PM at a restaurant called Caliças. Apparently it’s the latest hot spot. Does that work for you?” Rachel asked as she sipped her coffee.

“Sounds great. I look forward to meeting him. And seeing Wes.”

“Wes mentioned that you might collaborate on a book at some point.”

“It’s a possibility, but I’ll let him reach out when the timing is right. He’s got another book with Ryker in the works, so I don’t want to interrupt their flow,” Ethan murmured.

“I hope this case isn’t taking you away from your writing.”

Ethan shook his head. “I told you before that I was taking a break after my last release. I need a recharge. And helping you is not only my pleasure but my privilege.”

Rachel cheeks turned a beautiful shade of pink and he was helpless to do anything but stare at her.

“Ms. Iris and Mr. June will see you now,” Dean interrupted and motioned for them to follow him.

Ethan turned to Rachel, but before he could say anything she raised up her hand. “I know, Ethan, you lead the questions and I’ll jump in as needed. I trust your process.”

Ethan chuckled as they walked down the hallway behind the reception desk. “Actually, I was going to say that you’re the most intuitive partner I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. You read me very well.”

“Well, I … thank you. You’ve made the big discoveries so far. I haven’t done much of anything except tag along and give you my feedback. I mean, I’ve done research, too, but still… Fuck, I can’t believe I’m rambling. Good thing Ryker isn’t here, or he’d laugh his head off.”

“Don’t worry. You’re nervous. Interviewing people and asking the tough questions can be daunting. You’re doing great.”

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