Page 140 of Temporary Vows

I stare at my father, wondering what he’s going to say. We’ve been okay all these weeks. I hope that continues.

“You’re doing some really good work here,” he begins, much to my surprise. It’s been a while since he paid me that sort of compliment, even though I always deliver.

“You know I do my best.”

“Yes, but this is way above board. Business with the Hargroves will more doors for us in different industries.”

“Knox and I have been talking about expansion. He’s currently working on real estate, while I guess I did this.”

He nods. “And you handed it to England. A wise move, though I would have been tempted to keep it here.”

I can see why he thought that. But the best contracts are always handled here, because we’re here. Even though we operate under one umbrella, each branch has their own recognition for different reasons. I want a uniform of success across the board.

“England comes close to the work we do here. I want them on par with us.”

He raises his brows, and he seems at a loss for words.

“It will be a good thing. I just know it,” I add.

“I trust you. You’ve done a complete three-sixty. I don’t even recognize you.”

Now it’s time for me to look surprised. “I haven’t exactly done anything differently.”

He smiles at that. “Yes, you have. You just haven’t realized it yet. Your approach is different. I like it.”

If he likes it, then I love it. “Thanks.”

“Things okay at home?”

He’s referring to Elodie.

What should I say about her? “Everything’s great.” It sounds like a lie, but it’s the best answer I have.

“Good. Keep up the good work.”

There’s a knock at the door.

“Come in,” Dad calls out.

The door opens and Elena pokes her head in. “Sorry to interrupt, but Elodie is here to see you, Dorian.”

I straighten instantly.

Elodie. Here?

How did she even know I was going to be here today?

It doesn’t matter. She’s here.

“Thanks I’ll be a minute.”

Elena leaves and I glance back at my father who surprisingly smiling at me.

“Go, we can catch up later.”

“Alright.”

I get up and head to my office.