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The fire in her eyes is my answer. It’s time to wrap this up.
“The bricks for the mailbox had to be specially ordered, and they arrived this week. Maya and I will be rebuilding the mailbox this weekend. I probably know the answer, but I’ll throw it out there anyway. You are welcome to stop by and help. It will be a good step toward proving to the kids we can be civilized.”
“Are you kidding me? You own a construction company and can easily have one of your crews do that job. Why is she doing manual labor?”
“Because she’s learning there are consequences to her actions.”
“You’re punishing her.”
“No, I’m teaching her a lesson.”
She rolls her eyes. “Fucking ridiculous.”
“Suit yourself. One last thing. I’d like to take the kids out of town during their Christmas break.”
“Let me guess? Aspen?”
“Yes.”
“The answer is hell no. Their first time on a plane is not going to be to fly across the country to see her.”
“I think we’re done for today,” John speaks up. “We’ll discuss any plans for travel at a future date.”
He and I stand, him shaking the other lawyer’s hand before going. John waits until we are at my truck before speaking.
“I hope your generosity over the years doesn’t come back to bite you in the ass.”
“Me too.”
“It’s none of my business, but humor me. Why did you decide to give her all that extra money?”
“Out of guilt and obligation to Maya and Cole. I guess it was my way of compensating for not loving their mom.”
“You know that you aren’t going to have to pay for the damages to that kid’s car. He was at fault.”
“I know, but Connie needed to see how serious this is. You heard her. She can’t see past my relationship with Darby and understand I’m focused on the wellbeing of our kids. She’s always been cunning and conniving; hell, she even made a play to move into my house. It can’t go on.”
“I’m going to piss you off here, but it’s my job to be objective. You’ve been dormant in parenting with Connie for a long time, so the boundary lines were blurred. Now, you’re speeding at full throttle to establish what should have been happening all along. Darby reentering your life lit a fire under your ass. It’s important to keep your attention on the welfare of Maya and Cole and steer clear of any references to your personal life when it comes to Connie—no matter how hard it is—because that woman sitting across from you today is the epitome of a woman scorned. She’s pissed, and she’s likely to keep lashing out. You’re going to need to get a grip on that Kendrick temper you’re known for. Stay on the straight and narrow and find an outlet for your anger. If this goes back to a judge, we need everything solid.”
I nod, hearing him loud and clear. Lose the attitude.
“Call me if you need me, which will probably be soon.” He slaps me on the shoulder and leaves.
I hope he’s wrong and that I won’t need him soon. But it’s highly unlikely.
Chapter 31
Darby
“Let’s head home. I’m beat.” Runner sits dutifully at my feet while I strap his leash to his collar. He trots his way through the park while I wave to a few familiar faces and call out my greetings.
This has become our routine. Several afternoons a week, we come here so he can release some energy. He’s used to having space. My place only has a small yard, but he’s adapted well.
In the five weeks we’ve been here, my world has shifted on its axis. Being a part of Brasher is nothing short of spectacular. Everyone from management to my team has made me feel welcome. I thought it would be hard, working with a large crew and managing the demands, but it isn’t. There was a small period of adjustment, not handling all the financials, but since I’m included in all managerial meetings, the reports are given to me weekly. And that suits me because I can concentrate on running my kitchen.
Three days after Pierce left, I couldn’t stand the boredom and threw myself into work. They were happy to have me start earlier than expected. They already have a full-time baker, and everyone knew I was brought in for my specialties. So far, it’s been a hit. Technically, it’s not tourist season in Aspen. Between the festivals and outdoor enthusiasts, Brasher keeps a packed resort, which has been great because I’ve been able to stay busy.
Evin did come for a long weekend, and I cut back my schedule to spend time with him. We were invited to go hiking, and I stupidly thought it would be fun. He had a great time. It took me days to recover from abusing my muscles.
