Page 55 of My Real Love Affair

“It’s accurate.” He turned back to me. “You want your career back? Your community’s trust? That doesn’t come from a check. It comes from the truth.”

“You’re really good at this.”

“At what?”

“Being a Bancroft. The negotiating, the strategy.”

“I’ve been watching my family do business deals my whole life. Guess I picked up a few things.”

“More than a few.”

“They’re going to accept our terms,” Austin said. “They don’t have a choice. Going to court would be worse for them than a public apology.”

“How do you know?”

“Because that’s what I’d do if I were in their position. Cut my losses. Control the narrative as much as possible. Move on.”

The Femme Curve delegation returned, looking resigned and defeated. And when they agreed to all of Austin’s terms, I watched Austin negotiate the final details with total confidence. It was honestly really hot watching him work.

My fake boyfriend was starting to feel a little too real.

CHAPTER 17

AUSTIN

Ifelt fucking invincible walking out of that conference room. Femme Curve had folded exactly like I’d predicted. Public apology drafted and approved. Timeline set for release. Legal team scrambling to cover their asses. And Melody was looking at me like I’d hung the moon, the stars, and all the other planets.

I held her hand as I led her to the elevators. I pushed the button and glanced over at her. She’d been awful quiet. I had a feeling she was in a little bit of shock.

Melody had gotten exactly what she deserved. Justice, vindication, and a chance to set the record straight. And I made it happen.

“You’re smirking,” she said as the elevator descended.

“I’m victorious. There’s a difference.”

“You look like a cat who just caught a very expensive canary.”

“That’s because I did.” I loosened my tie, riding the high of a successful negotiation. “Did you see their faces when Margaret pulled out the contract clause? I thought he was going to have a stroke.”

“You enjoyed that way too much.”

“I enjoyed it exactly the right amount.” The elevator reached the lobby, and I guided her out with a hand in the small of her back. “Come on. We’re celebrating.”

“Celebrating? Austin, it’s barely four in the afternoon.”

“Perfect time for drinks.” I pulled out my phone, already texting my driver. “I know a place. Great cocktails, better food, huge windows facing the street.”

She caught the last part. “Windows facing the street?”

“Where we can be seen. Together. Looking like we’re celebrating something important.” I gave her my best charming smile. “Come on, Melody. Live a little.”

“I have work tonight. Content to edit. Posts to write.”

“Which you can do after one drink. One drink to toast our victory over the evil corporation that wronged you.” I stepped closer, lowering my voice. “Besides, we should be seen together. Building the narrative. Making this look real.”

She bit her lip, considering, then sighed. “One drink.”

“That’s my girl.”