We Want Mommy Not You Daddy (Cedar) novel Chapter 28

Chapter 28

Oliver’s POV

I waited in Mr. Coleman’s spacious office, my legs swinging back and forth beneath the enormous leather chair that made me feel even smaller than I already was. The chair was butter–soft and probably cost more than all the furniture in Mommy’s apartment combined. Hunter sat beside me, both of us hunched over a complicated puzzle game on my tablet.

‘Your turn, Hunter whispered, sliding the device back to me,

I studied the colorful pattern of blocks, my finger hovering over the screen as I calculated my next move. But my mind wasn’t really on the game. Every few minutes, I’d glance toward the door, waiting for news about Mommy’s interview.

Do you think Mr. Coleman will actually make Mommy a director?” I asked.

Hunter replied with a big smile, “Mr. Coleman would do anything you ask. He’s been walking on eggshells around you ever since that ‘parrot incident‘ at last

year’s Christmas party.”

I grinned, remembering how the man’s face had paled when he came to visit us last time. My pet parrot had swooped down and landed right on his head, knocking off his toupee in front of everyone. Grown–ups were so easy to convince when you knew their secrets.

“Mommy deserves it,‘ I said firmly, tapping a green block that caused a satisfying cascade of matches. “She works harder than anyone and makes the prettiest designs. Did you see her portfolio? I promise even Aiden will think it was good, and he never likes anything.”

The office was quiet except for the soft hum of the air conditioning and the occasional ping from my game. Huge windows overlooked the Chicago skyline, the buildings shimmering in the morning light. It was the kind of view Mommy should have from her office, I decided.

The door opened, and I quickly straightened in my seat, putting on my serious expression as Mr. Coleman walked in. He entered with a slightly hunched posture, his eyes darting nervously as he approached, the way grown–ups do when they’re afraid of disappointing someone important.

“Young Master,” he began with a small bow of his head, “I hope you found everything to your liking while waiting. Can I offer you anything? A snack, perhaps? Or a different beverage?” He gestured to the untouched water glass on the side table.

“I’m fine,” I said, waving my hand dismissively just like Daddy does. “Tell me about Mommy’s interview.”

Coleman nodded quickly, almost too eagerly. “Yes, of course, right away. I’ve just finished speaking with Ms. Wright.” He straightened some papers on his

desk, his movements jittery. “She has been offered the position of Design Director at an annual salary of 100,000 dollars.

My heart soared for a moment, but then I frowned, doing quick calculations in my head. Daddy had taught us about money and living costs in Chicago–one

of the few useful things he’d bothered to teach us himself instead of hiring tutors.

“That’s not enough,‘ I declared, crossing my arms over my chest.

Coleman’s face immediately fell, and he raised his hands placatingly. “Oh! I–I’m terribly sorry, Young Master. Please understand, I thought he stammered, clearly flustered. ‘What figure did you have in mind?”

**200,000 dollars, and not a penny less,” I stated firmly.

Hunter coughed discreetly beside me, but I ignored him.

“Two hundred thousand?” Coleman clarified, his voice rising slightly before he caught himself. He tugged at his collar nervously. That’s… that’s certainly

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3:57 pm D M

Chapter 28

doable if that’s what you wish. I just worry that such a substantial offer might raise Ms. Wright’s suspicions. She might question why a new employee would

receive such generous compensation.”

I hadn’t thought of that. I didn’t want Mommy to know I was helping her she might feel bad or try to turn down the job out of pride. Grown–ups were

complicated that way.

“Fine,” I conceded after a moment of consideration, tapping my chin with my index finger like I’d seen Daddy do during negotiations. One hundred and fifty thousand, plus a nice office with windows, and she gets to pick her own team.”

“Very generous but prudent compromise, sir,‘ Coleman nodded vigorously, relief washing over his face. “One hundred and fifty thousand, corner office with a lake view, and team selection privileges. I’ll make the arrangements immediately.”

“And Mr. Coleman?” I added, my voice suddenly serious as I thought about Mommy’s tired eyes and how hard she worked. “Take care of my Mommy. Don’t

make her work too hard.”

Absolutely, Young Master,” he responded, his tone solemn and deferential. “Since you recognize Ms. Wright as your mom, she will receive only the most

respectful treatment. I’ll personally ensure her comfort and success at Nest Design.”

Just then, voices drifted in from the hallway outside.

“Good morning, Mr. Sterling and the younger Mr. Sterling! We’re delighted to have you visiting our office today.” A woman’s voice, crisp and professional.

My eyes widened in horror as I looked at Hunter, who looked equally panicked. They were coming this way!

“Quick!” I whispered urgently, grabbing Hunter’s sleeve and dragging him toward Mr. Coleman’s massive desk. My heart was hammering so hard I thought it

might burst right out of my chest.

Coleman’s face drained of color. “Oh my goodness,” he whispered, practically jumping from his chair. “This way, quickly!” He frantically gestured toward his

desk.

I dove under the desk, pulling Hunter with me. The space was cramped but just big enough for both of us if we hunched over. Coleman quickly pushed his

chair in, concealing us further, his movements frantic but precise.

My heart pounded so hard I was sure everyone could hear it. The door handle turned with a soft click that sounded like thunder to my terrified ears.

“Thomas, do you have a moment?” My father’s voice, cold and precise as always, filled the room.

“Mr. Sterling! And young Master. Aiden! What an unexpected honor,” Coleman replied, his voice pitching higher than normal before he steadied it. “Please, please come in, sir.”

I held my breath, pressing myself against the back panel of the desk. Hunter’s arm was around my shoulders, either to comfort me or to keep me from moving–probably both. The smell of wood polish and leather filled my nostrils, and dust tickled my nose, threatening to make me sneeze.

The desk was like a wooden cave, dark except for thin slices of light coming through the small gaps. I could see shiny black shoes moving across the floor as

he entered the room.

3:57 pm

We Want Mommy, Not You, Daddy!

Chapter 29