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Before I can protest that I wasn’t in charge of the guest list, Alistair jumps in. “No. He wasn’t. How’s your drink, Victoria? Can I get you another?” He looks at her with annoyance, and I almost choke on my piquette. It’s the first time I’ve ever seen him openly upset with her.
“No, thank you. I’m fine.” She spins around and walks out of the kitchen, onto the patio.
“Well, that certainly didn’t endear me to her.”
Alistair grips my shoulder. “It’s not you. She’s like that with everyone. She’s just a miserable, bitter person.” He looks out the French doors. “One of these days, she’ll actually let us buy her out of the business.” He turns back to me, utterly serious. “When that day comes, we’re having the biggest damned party in the history of parties.”
I sip my drink to mask my surprise as well as my satisfied grin. Alistair is some actor because up to this point, I’d never imagined he disliked Victoria so much.
“You’ve been doing great work for us, Jocelin. I want you to know I appreciate the effort you put in. Your contracts are always sound. That’s why I put you on the Hansley case. I knew you could handle the magnitude of the project, and that it would be in good hands.”
I’m a bit dizzy from the praise. “Thank you, Alistair. That means a great deal.”
“I wouldn’t say it if I didn’t mean it. And Nando is equally impressed with you. We have our eye on you and expect great things.” A wave of laughter drifts in from the patio, drawing our attention. Alistair claps me on the shoulder. “I should probably spend some time with the rest of my guests. But I’m very glad you made it tonight. Have something to eat, mingle. Make yourself at home. I’m sure we’ll chat again later.” He toasts me with his drink and wanders off.
I pour myself another piquette and go in search of Gunnar. After wandering through a few rooms, I find him leaning against a grand piano, laughing about something with Selina. When I approach, he throws his arm over my shoulder and pulls me against his side. “And where have you been? Chatting with Alistair all this time?”
“Yes, as a matter of fact.” I lean in so only he will hear. “It was very enlightening. I’ll tell you about it later.”
Gunnar raises one eyebrow. “Hmmm. That sounds intriguing. I look forward to it.”
Selina rises from the piano bench, leans in to squeeze Gunnar’s hand quickly, and pats my shoulder. “I’ve monopolized your boyfriend for long enough. It was such a nice surprise finding someone who appreciates the architecture of the house like I do. We’ll definitely all have to chat more at the next gathering. But I should go find Alistair and say hello to a few more of our guests.”
I gesture toward the backyard. “He was headed to the patio.”
She smiles and picks up her empty glass. “Thanks. See you guys later.”
Gunnar turns toward me, pulling me into his arms, and I go eagerly. “Joce, I can feel the excitement pouring off you. What’s up?”
I lean close so I won’t be overheard. “Alistair just admitted he can’t stand Victoria! I had no idea.”
Gunnar snorts. “Did you think they liked her?”
“No, but I didn’t think theydislikedher.” I look around, making sure no one is eavesdropping. “Let’s just say Alistair is not a fan. But he did tell me he and Nando love the job I’m doing.”
Gunnar grins and hugs me tightly. “Joce, that’s great news. I’m happy for you.”
“Thanks.” I lean into him, enjoying the press of his body against mine. “We should probably mingle with others, though. Make the most of this opportunity.” We head back to the kitchen and then out to the patio, where several people are sitting in padded chairs around a fire pit. There are outdoor heaters placed along the length of the house and lawn torches throughout the yard. I spot Nando speaking to one of the lawyers from the financial division, and we head that way.
“Good evening, Jocelin! Glad you could make it tonight.” Nando stands and offers his hand. I shake it and then gesture to Gunnar. “Nando, this is my boyfriend Gunnar Osouf. Gunnar, this is Fernando Santori, one of the partners at my firm.”
Nando extends his hand, and Gunnar takes it. “Please, call me Nando. Everyone does. And it’s very nice to meet you, Gunnar. Have you two been enjoying your evening so far?”
“Yes, it’s been lovely. Gunnar got a tour of the house, and I had a chance to chat with Alistair for a bit.”
“Good. I hope he mentioned we think you’re doing an outstanding job and appreciate how well you handle all your clients. You’re an asset to our organization, Jocelin, and you have a bright future with us.”
I try to wrap my head around the unexpected compliments he and Alistair have given me tonight. In the back of my mind, I suppose I knew they viewed me as competent and reliable, but hearing them both tell me I’m valued is unexpected praise, and it fills my chest with a warm pressure that makes it a little difficult to breathe. Before I can get too full of myself, Nando bursts that bubble. “I hear you had a run-in with Victoria.”
I groan. “Does everyone know?” Thankfully, it’s too dark to see the flush on my cheeks.
“Probably.” The laughter in his voice is clear, and I’m grateful.
“I’m sorry I didn’t have the forethought to move the discussion into her office instead of having it in the middle of the main floor.”
Nando shrugs. “She can be quite… challenging. Sometimes people can force the situation, and we are not at our best. It happens. But not letting someone else bully you is a very valuable skill to have, especially for anyone in a law firm. Alistair and I are pleased to see that you have no problem standing up for yourself.” His white teeth gleam in the firelight. “Even if it is in the middle of the office.”
“Thank you. Hopefully, there won’t be a next time, but I appreciate your understanding.” Gunnar squeezes my hand, and it’s exactly the reassurance I need. “But we won’t take up any more of your time. We didn’t mean to interrupt your conversation.”
