Page 148 of Brighter Together

An older man rises from the table.

He looks enough like Lee that I don’t need an introduction.

Same build.

Same mouth.

Same confidence that the room belongs to him.

Nothing about him reminds me of Ella.

I’m glad.

“Thomas, David Grange.”

He holds out his hand.

I shake it because I came here to behave like a professional, even if they never extended Ella the same courtesy.

“Mr Grange.”

His attention moves to Nick.

“And your associate?”

“This is my friend Nick. He’s joining me for the meeting.”

Nick gives him a brief nod.

Nobody asks why he is here.

Perhaps something in my expression discourages unnecessary questions.

Lee gestures towards the table.

“We’ve got the team together, so if you’d like to sit down, we can go through the outstanding points in the contract.”

Several people are already waiting with folders open in front of them.

I recognise two from the presentation.

They have clearly prepared for a negotiation.

They aren’t getting one.

“There’s no need.”

Lee’s hand stops on the back of his chair.

“I’m sorry?”

“I’m not here to negotiate the contract. Greenview Manor will not be appointing your firm.”

For a moment, nobody moves.

Then Lee’s expression hardens.

“Can I ask why?”