Page 136 of Brighter Together

“I drew the entire proposal.”

“Then finish the job.”

“I told you I won’t manipulate him.”

Lee steps closer again.

My back is already against the wall.

“You’ll make him sign.”

“No.”

His eyes narrow.

Fear squeezes my chest.

But the word is out now.

I said it.

For once, I don’t take it back.

“You have until the end of the week,” he says and steps back. “Do you fucking understand?”

The door opens.

Everything stops.

Tommy stands in the doorway holding a bottle of milk.

His gaze moves from Lee to me.

Then to the wall behind me.

“What’s going on?” he asks.

Lee immediately steps further back.

“Thomas.” His voice changes completely.

Calm.

Professional.

He might as well be back in the Manchester boardroom.

“I was nearby, so I thought I’d call in and see my sister.”

Tommy doesn’t answer.

His eyes stay on me for a second longer.

Lee crosses his arms.

“We still haven’t heard anything about the proposal.”

“We’ll notify everyone once we’ve made a decision.” Tommy’s voice is polite.