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“Together.” For the first time this morning, Peter’s eyes fill with resolve. “Fuck. Yeah. I won’t let them use my guilt for one more day. I’m allowing them to hold this over my head and I haven’t done enough to stop it. I want to put an end to this. Once and for all.”
Running my thumbs over his knuckles, I decide to use this moment to also give Rose some grace. “For the record, consider what Rose had to say. It's not easy for a woman to climb up the corporate ladder in a male-dominated industry. You're such a progressive thinker, try expanding your mind into the possibilities of her taking a bigger role.”
For the rest of the day, Peter and I brainstorm possible ways to tackle the situation. We workshop everything from seeking legal advice to confronting Lance and the rest of his family. As we talk, a sense of cohesion solidifies between us.
Peter doesn't have to solve his problems on his own.
We can face everything as a team.
Chapter thirty-one
Peter
Later That Day
How the fuck did we get here?
Jordan and I sit with her parents in the Deveraux’s spacious living room overlooking Lake Washington.
The atmosphere is tense but not unfriendly.
Earlier today, I left Jordan sleeping in my bed and, honestly, things could have gone two ways.
She could have kicked me to the curb, and rightfully so. I promised her there’d be no more secrets, knowing this one is a fucking doozy. It’s no excuse, but I’ve been living with the shame of what I did for so long, I’m not sure if it even registered as a bonafide “secret.”
My fateful decision became part of me. Lord knows, if my dad hadn’t found out about it a decade ago, I wouldn't have told a soul. What does that say about me? Do I have a character flaw? Am I really any better than Lance?
Luckily, Jordan’s given me grace. Again. We talked all morning and came up with what I thought was our final plan—me confessing what happened to the selection committee and the university and trying to handle it quietly.
Somehow, we’re at her parents’ house. Jordan convinced me to run everything past Jason. I went along with it because I know this isn’t about seeking advice. For her, it’s about gaining the trust and support of her family.
For me? I feel like a goddamn child and I’m uncomfortable as hell. As much as I respect Jordan’s dad, I don’t need his fucking permission or advice. I’m my own man and I know how to do the right thing.
Do you?
“Peter, as you’ve probably surmised, I’ve been aware of your…situation for a while.” Jason’s eyes, as green as Jordan’s, pierce mine. “Your past doesn’t define you, but how you handle it does. Jordan mentioned you’ve come up with a game plan. Do you feel comfortable sharing?”
Goddamn him. Why does he have to be so…uh…perceptive and deferential. I nod, my throat tight with nerves. “Truthfully, until Jordan and I did some research today, I had no clue about the severe legal ramifications. Somehow, over the years, I’ve compartmentalized it. Figured out how to justify what I did for the greater good. It was selfish and I should have found another way.”
When I say the words, something miraculous happens. I feel lighter. Freer. Jordan sits beside me and notices. She smiles and her hand finds mine, offering silent support.
“Your track record in business speaks volumes about your character and your work ethic.” Jason leans forward on his elbows. “Unfortunately, when it comes to personal matters, especially with Jordan, you allow your ego to cloud your judgment.”
“Pops! Don’t say that.” Jordan’s angry. She drops my hand and crosses her arms over her chest.
I swallow hard. As much as it sucks to hear it, he’s nailed it. “It's okay, baby. He’s absolutely right. But I recognize it and I’m committed to doing the right thing. Especially with you, Jordan. I love you. Want a future with you. There’s nothing I won’t do. I…I don’t want to let you down.”
It feels like the air’s sucked out of the room at my admission.
Jordan has tears in her eyes. “I want a future with you too, baby. I know you’re uncomfortable, but I wanted you to know how it feels to be surrounded by a family who unconditionally supports you in times of trouble.” She looks at Jason. “Right, Pops?”
“Yes, sweetheart.” Jason leans back. His eyes fill with affection when he looks at his daughter. He flicks his eyes back to me and he’s all business again. “Actions speak louder than lip service. Only you can decide how you’re going to face the music. Jordan is a grown woman who can make her own decisions, but I’m counting on you to do the right thing. If you two have your own family one day, I’d expect you’d have this exact same discussion with your child’s partner as well.”
Grace leans on Jason’s shoulder. “Peter, to translate Jason’s gruff delivery, as long as you’re with Jordan, we claim you as one of our own. Sometimes, families have to close ranks and this, my dear, is one of those times.”
I feel the weight of their words. I look at Jordan, who is so beautiful and good. Long, blonde hair flowing over her little black t-shirt. She’s so strong and capable. It’s not like she needs her parents’ approval, she merely respects their opinion and counts on their guidance.
For the first time since we arrived, I’m able to understand this visit is a gift. Jordan knows I don’t have parents I can turn to so she’s loaning out Jason and Grace. “I give you my word. I’ll do whatever it takes to be the man Jordan deserves, to be someone you can trust as part of this family. I love your daughter and intend on doing her proud for the rest of our lives.”
