“You don’t understand. Our firm is built on generations of stuffy old men with rules and expectations, and it might not seem like a big deal, but it is. It’s pretty much a miracle he was able to get the partners to agree to let me and Carina restart the family law part of the business. They’re kind of snobby and old school, and they don’t do well with change.”
“I’m sorry. What can I do?”
“I don’t know. Our firm is up for the International Licensing Law Firm of Virginia award this year. It’s a big deal for us, and this mess could ruin it. He’ll never forgive me if this makes the news. It might seem funny and harmless, but it’s not. This is my life. It’s serious to my family.”
“I hear you. I understand.” Matthew placed his hands on her shoulders. “Hey, look at me. First, I kind of doubt your dad could ever get that mad at you.”
She slowly shook her head. “You don’t know my father.”
“Maybe you should check in with the station and inquire about the the story. See exactly what the angle is. You have a right to know.”
“I wouldn’t know where to begin.” She sighed.
“Maybe you weren’t invited for that segment because they know what a far-fetched premise the whole thing is. Doesn’t Kally Whats-her-name have a new book out? She’s probably working some media coverage. It may have nothing to do withyou, except for the part where she thoughtlessly added you into the frenzy by tossing your name into the video.”
“There’s that. I wish. It’s like this just won’t go away.”
“I get it.” He pressed his hand to her arm. “No one is going to think you’re some kind of modern day matchmaker. You’re an attorney handling a divorce. It’s a process, and then people move on. You’re not doing weird marriage voodoo and handing out a secret potion.”
“Who would’ve believed ten years ago that people would be making drunken videos and posting for the world to see? It’s anyone’s guess what they’ll believe, or remember.”
“Good point, and that could work in your favor. It’s name recognition, even if they don’t remember why or where they heard your name.”
She nodded, trying to smile, but the worried look on her face was hard to hide.
“I know one of the anchors at that affiliate,” Matthew said. “Let me call him. Maybe he can give you some advice.”
“What would I say? Hello, I’m Whitney Winters, and I was a trending hashtag. Can we chat?”
“That actually sounds way sexier than it is.” He stepped closer. “I don’t know what else to suggest. The way I see it, I sort of owe you. That’s the second outfit of yours I’ve ruined since we met.”
She relaxed, looking a little less panicked.
“Start dialing,” she said.
With no hesitation, he pulled out his phone and placed the call. “Hey, Daniel. It’s Matthew McMahon. Yeah, I’ve been good. I need a favor…”
Chapter
Twenty-Four
Whitney couldn’t shake the dull ache in her chest knowing the rest of the family was headed to Arlington for the awards ceremony, and she wouldn’t be with them. It was a big deal to earn the National Licensing Law Firm award.
She was sad that she’d miss the event.
Concentrating on work was nearly impossible. She slogged along at a snail’s pace.
Later that afternoon, William texted pictures from the luncheon.
It looked like the typical pretentious soiree, rubber chicken and all. Chocolate desserts with shimmering edible gold logos, that probably cost more than the meal, were at each place setting.
Her brother texted:
I’m totally bringing one of these home for you, even if I have to steal Grant’s!
Whitney sent a thumbs-up icon and pushed the phone aside, slouching back in her chair.
Olivia tapped at Whitney’s door. “You got a minute?”
