Addicted After All(151)

“You should talk to her and start pitching names for the clothing line,” Daniel says as he finishes off his wine.

Irene nods. “It’s a strong concept, and most women like Rose.”

Another guy asks, “Are you prepared to work with her?” He wears a bemused smile like he understands Rose’s reputation for being a handful.

“I am. And if we don’t kill each other, I’ll call it a success.”

They all laugh. I understand that they’re used to someone like me. I pretty much share the same humor as my dad, so it doesn’t fall on deaf ears. I’ve fit in more easily with them than I ever thought I would.

“Hey.” My brother’s voice sounds behind me. He sets a hand on my shoulder. “Can I talk to you for a second?”

“Yeah.” I nod to Daniel. “I’ll talk to you all later.”

“Maybe the wine will grow on you by then,” Daniel jokes.

“If only,” I banter back, my brother’s fingertips digging into my shoulder. I turn around quickly and head over to an empty high-top table by the wall.

He starts, “You’re not drinking—”

“No,” I retort. “It was just a joke.” One I can f*cking handle. My clutch on my glass tightens, especially as I scrutinize his wardrobe again.

He’s wearing a business suit, something my dad loved seeing him in. Navy blue, tailored, wide-tie. He even shaved this morning, an attempt to try harder and be something he’s not.

“You look stupid,” I tell him.

Ryke glares. “I heard you the first four f*cking times.”

I feel my jaw jut out as I clench my teeth. I hate that he’s taking this route to win. He’s cursed out too many of the board members to be a real option anyway. He can try to change his appearance, but he can’t change a lot of things that make him who he is.

And honestly, I thank God for that.

“What did you want?” I ask.

He runs an anxious hand through his hair. I notice dark circles under his eyes, like he hasn’t slept much. “Have you seen Dad’s text?” I realize he’s grasping his cellphone in a fist.

My brows knot in confusion, and I pull my cell from my pocket. I set it on silent for the event. With one click, I scroll through all the missed messages.

New standings. Maybe this will put a fire under your asses tonight. – Dad

I skim all four texts, sent almost at the same time.

Lily Calloway: the board thinks you’re still too quiet. And since Maximoff’s birth, you’ve become aloof and disinterested. 4 out of 14 board members approve. – Dad

I look over my shoulder. Lingering by the chocolate fountain, Lily snacks on cheese cubes with a toothpick. I’d feel guiltier by leaving her alone if she didn’t have this silly grin on her face. She’s absorbed in her new smart phone—social media, I’m pretty damn sure.

I’m happy that it’s making her happy and not the inverse for once.

I try to let out a breath. She’s out of the running. She won’t go out of her way to try either. It’s less pressure on me. It makes this easier.

I swallow hard and continue reading.

Loren Hale: everyone is overall impressed (as they should be). They find you charming, likeable and tough. The few that had problems with me are still hesitant on committing to you. 11 out of 14 love you. – Dad

How do I even convince these last three to like me? I’m so much like my dad. I internally grimace as I contemplate different avenues. I try to block them out before I read on.

Ryke Meadows: you’ve vastly improved. You’re approachable and show willingness to change. The majority believe you’d be a strong leader for the company. 11 out of 14 love you. – Dad

My stomach sinks and cold bites my neck. I’d counted my brother out for the past month. I go rigid, not able to say anything. My eyes hit the screen again.

Daisy Calloway: you’ve shown maturity and seem genuinely interested in the company. You’re also beyond personable with great energy and enthusiasm. 13 of the 14 love you. Irene hesitates to have you as CEO. She thinks you’re too wild and young. Find a way to please her, and the company is yours. Congratulations. – Dad

Now I understand why Ryke rushed over to me. A worse outcome than Ryke taking over the company would be Daisy. My brother’s features are hard as rock.

“This can’t f*cking happen.” He points at my phone.