I guess it was good to experience first hand how Giles handled conflict. This was the first rough patch of our very short relationship. We would have to have a talk about this. I didn’t like that he just left without cluing me in to his feelings at all. It made me feel like I didn’t matter nearly as much to him as I thought I did.
That thought caused a small pang in my heart. I tried to brush it off. He did care. Staying was the right decision.
“Whatever,” I muttered under my breath and put on my parka.
Before I could head down the stairs, my phone rang. I was surprised to see Mike’s name on the screen since we usually just corresponded through e-mail.
“What’s up?” I asked, picking it up.
“Hey, Mattie. Happy holidays.”
The tone of his voice immediately had me on high alert. He sounded disappointed. Like he was ready to deliver bad news.
“What is it?” I cut right to the chase.
“A bit of bad news…”
I held my breath.
“You won’t be able to stay in Key Ridge after all.”
“What are you talking about? We worked it all out. I told you not to hire the replacement.”
“It isn’t that. I totally support your decision.”
“Then what?”
“This feels unfair since I know what a killer job you’ve done out there, but I have to tell you I just got a call this morning letting me know that they will not be moving forward with us.”
My mouth hung open in shock.
“Wha-what are you talking about?”
“I’m so sorry, Mattie. I know how disappointed you must be. And I know there’s still a few days left in the trial, but since we aren’t contracted with them, you’re free to head back to Florida whenever it’s convenient for you.”
My mouth felt dry, and my throat started to constrict as I processed what he was saying. Then it clicked. Bev. This must be what she was discussing with Giles last night. This was why he was so upset.
“This doesn’t make any sense, Mike. Let me just talk to Bev. I’m sure I can sort this out.”
“The call didn’t come from Bev.”
“Then who?” My stomach dropped.
“It was her nephew, Giles. He called this morning. Bit of an ass that one. Not sure how you’ve managed to work out there with him these past few weeks.”
I slumped against the wall in shock. How could this be happening? Why would he do this? He must have known he was doing this last night if he had called Mike first thing in the morning. My shock turned into sadness.
That sadness was quickly replaced by anger.
I needed to speak with Giles.
Now.
“I’ve got to go, Mike.” I hung up before waiting to hear what else he had to say.
I made it down the stairs as fast as my bad ankle would allow me and turned toward the lodge, hoping to find him there.
Tears pricked at my eyes, and I sniffed aggressively to try to hold them back. I could not break down before I confronted him. He had to have some sort of explanation for this abrupt turn of events.
