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“Peter, I know this is a big moment for you.” Rose’s voice scares the living shit out of me. “I’ve seen your dedication to this project, your passion. I also see the conflict it’s causing you.”
I turn to see her approach me tentatively. In her eyes, I see the same ambition that once fueled my every decision. “It’s not about the project, Rose. It’s what it means for my life—all of our lives.”
“I understand.” Rose sits next to me. “I want to offer my help. I believe in this project, in its potential. I’d like to take on the role of managing it. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I’m ready for the challenge.”
It’s funny. A few months ago her offer would have pissed me off. Now, her words offer a glimmer of possibility. Could this be the solution? Could her leadership give me the space to balance my professional and personal life? “Rose, what a generous offer. I promise to think about it. Thank you. Truly.”
“Of course.” She nods, stops as if she’s going to say something, then departs with a wave.
Huh. The possibility of allowing Rose to take a leadership role under my guidance is tempting. It’s definitely something I’m going to consider should we land this appointment. At the end of the day, we’re so close to the finish line and the investment I’ve made will be wasted if we don’t see it through. Besides, there’s really no going backward at this point.
It’s time to get some sleep.
Luckily, the hotel is two blocks away and it’s only about ten minutes before I dial Jordan’s number.
My heart thrums with apprehension as the phone rings.
This call could change everything.
Chapter twenty-six
Jordan
A Few Minutes Later
I’m so fucking nervous.
At least I’m no longer confused.
Or scared.
Well, that’s not true. I’m petrified I’ve stiff-armed Peter for too long and he’s given up on me.
I’m wearing out a patch of the plush carpeted hallway waiting for Peter to call me. Pacing. Kicking the floor with my toe. Pacing some more. It’s been hours since I tried him. Now, it’s past midnight in London and he hasn’t responded, which is surprising. I thought he’d call right away.
When he didn’t, it called for drastic measures with a dash of stalker. Maybe he’s—
As if I’ve conjured him out of the ether, Peter’s name flashes on my screen.
I let it buzz twice before answering to gather my wits. “Hey.”
“I’m sorry it took me so long to call.” He sounds tired. Beaten down. “Today’s been a bitch. I’ve been swamped with meetings and finally got to the hotel about ten minutes ago. How are you?”
I suppress a giggle as I watch a room service attendant knock on his door. “I’m good, just thought I’d check in. Is everything going alright?”
He opens the door barefooted wearing a tight black T-shirt and a pair of charcoal joggers. He turns and gestures for the staffer to follow him in but he’s laser focused on his phone and doesn’t notice me shuffling in behind the food cart. “Yeah… extremely hectic. This project is such a massive undertaking. I’ve been meaning to talk to you about it.”
“Oh?” I step out from behind the cart and look at him, knowing he could hear my voice through the phone and in person. My heart pounds in my chest.
He turns, phone still to his ear, and his eyes widen in shock. “Jordan? Wait. What…how are you in London?”
“Surprise! I thought I’d drop by. Can I come in?” I step closer. Judging by his stunned expression, I’m the last person he expected to see.
Peter shuts off his phone and tosses it on the bed. “You’re already in. I can’t believe… This is amazing.”
He signs the check and the delivery gal takes off and I close the door behind her.
In the quiet of Peter’s hotel room, the air is charged. Standing a few feet apart gazing into each other’s eyes, we’re caught in a moment of uncertainty. My surprise arrival leaves us both unmoored. I’m present but can't figure out how to bridge the gap between us.
