The Forbidden Throb (Emma and Daniel) novel Chapter 68

68

The thought of walking back into that building and meeting James Hayes made my stomach clench, but I forced myself to move Get dressed. One step at a time.

I could do this. I would do this.

aded downstairs. And stopped short.

island, still in casual clothes–dark gray henley and Jeans–a cup of coffee beside his laptop.

ap as I entered, his expression carefully neutral.

home,” I said stupidly. “I thought you’d be at the hospital.”

“I cleared my morning schedule.” He closed the laptop with a quiet click. “Wanted to make sure you were all right.

Something warm and uncomfortable twisted in my chest. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“I know. Just I want.” He studied m

It wasn’t a quest Talk to Jane

in my work attire, the bag clutched in my hand. “You’re going in.”

Even if I…” I swallowed. “Even if I decide not to go back, I need to get my thing

pproval, maybe, or respect.

hing for his car keys on the counter. “You’re braver than you give yourself credit for. Come on, Fll d

was gentle but firm. “I know you can handle this.” He paused, holding my gaze. “But you don’t have to handle it ald

as settled over me like a blanket–warm, solid, steadying.

y,” I whispered.

ilding.

Whatever you decide in there–stay or leave–I support you. Completely.”

Chapter 68

I turned to look at him. His expression was steady, certain in a way that made something in my chest loosen.

“Thank you.” I managed.

ll pick you up when you’re done. Text me.”

I nodded, taking

The

able.

for the door handle.

doors showed a woman who looked far more composed than she felt.

e seventh floor. I stepped out, shoulders back, chin up.

xactly as it always did–rows of desks bathed in fluorescent light, the constant clatter of keyboards, the smell of burned er ink. Normal. Mundane.

thing felt normal anymore.

ed to find Lily rushing toward me

my god, Emma, I’m s

stomach

She grabbed my arm, pulling me aside from the main corridor.

ambled out in a rush.

around nervously. “He’s gone. Fired. They escorted him out first thing this morning.”

1. t. “What?”

ased, her expression twisting with disgust and disbelief. “He’s been harassing people for years. Interns, nally reported him to HR and they found–god, Emma, I can’t even-”

ghtly. “I thought he was brilliant. I recommended him to you. I told you that dinner would be good for your career,

e turned out to be…” She spat the next words. “A predator. A creep who abused his position.”

hy hand tightly, her eyes

nothing happened

You left that dinner early. Nothing happened, right?

3/4

pter 68

hadn’t that busen

penbiem all along? Too many people saying stent, brotantia rupi dions instead of ex

ally.” I said ganer Comething did happen. Thats why I left

Lace went white Whhe

her ever steadily And 11 Maybe stop putting people on pedestals just because 17 by re excessful. Credentials and 50 do someone a good person.

hodded slowly, tears spillinger Boure right.

not your fault,‘ I said, though part of messa small, angry part–wanted to blame someone, 8, anvenes You didn’t know.

re Lily could respond, a voice called out behind us.

ma Johnson?”

oth turned. One of Jane’s assistants stoodch a dew feet away, tablet in hand, professional smite in place

e wants to see you in her office. Now, ifiygourge available.”

ago

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