Page 86 of Claimed By The Other Brother

"She's the best person for this job," I say evenly.

"That's all that matters."

"But after what happened with Miles—" Mark starts.

"What happened with Miles is between Miles and Scarlett." I keep my tone neutral, professional.

"This is business. She has the expertise we need, and she accepted the position."

Mark studies me for a long moment.

"Just business?"

"Just business."

The server returns with my whiskey, and I take a long drink. The burn is familiar, grounding.

"Have you talked to Miles at all?" Jeff asks carefully.

"No."

"Does he know you're hiring her?"

"It's not his concern." I set my glass down.

“He gave up any say in Scarlett's life when he left her at that altar."

Mark and Jeff exchange another glance, but they don't push further. The conversation shifts to safer topics—market trends, acquisition opportunities, mutual contacts making moves.

I participate enough to be present, but my thoughts drift occasionally. The apartment is ready. The team is briefed. Everything is in place.

"You're distracted," Mark observes after Jeff excuses himself to take a call.

"Just thinking about the week ahead."

"Or thinking about Scarlett Bradford." Mark's expression is knowing.

"Just be careful, Dax. This could blow up in a lot of different ways."

"I'm aware."

"Are you?" He leans forward.

"Because from where I'm sitting, bringing your brother's ex-fiancée to New York to work directly with you seems like you're playing with fire."

"Maybe I am." I finish my whiskey.

"But I know what I'm doing."

Mark doesn't look convinced, but he doesn't argue.

"Just don't let it compromise the business. That's all I'm saying."

"It won't."

We stay another hour, the conversation flowing easily. When I finally leave Haven's Club and step out into the cool night air, I pull out my phone briefly, then pocket it again. I flag down my driver and slide into the back seat.

"Home."