Page 39 of Buttons

“I brought the proposal,” she continues, pulling documents from her portfolio and spreading them across my desk without permission. “I’ve added some notes on expanding their European markets. The merger potential is significant if we approach them correctly.”

We.As if we’re already a package deal.

Nah, forget training Virginia, Carmella needs to find another career field—one that doesn’t involve us working together so much.

It’s unbecoming, but I’ll admit I’m quite frustrated at the failed gala plan and am putting a lot of that failure onto Carmella. It was her idea, after all.

“Your assistant is trying,” Carmella says, glancing toward the outer office with barely disguised disdain. “But you need someone who understands your preferences.”

Ah, so maybe she’ll be agreeable in training Virginia, after all. But then I remember my wife’s face when she heard about the list.

“My business dealings aren’t your concern,” I say, not touching the coffee she brought. “And neither is my assistant.”

If she notices my coldness, she doesn’t acknowledge it. Instead, she perches on the edge of my desk and crosses her legs at the ankle.

“The charity board was thrilled with our appearance,” she says, changing tactics smoothly. “Donations are up twenty percent since the gala. They’re hoping we’ll attend the children’s art auction next month. I’m thinking Valentino for you, classic black. It photographs well against my red.”

I slowly blink. “There is no ‘our appearance.’ There is no ‘we.’ I’m not even sure if we should have a professional relationship anymore.”

Her smile doesn’t falter, but something cold flickers in her eyes. “Don’t be naïve, Julian. The press coverage is exactly what we both needed. Your company’s stock is up three points this morning, and my client list has already expanded. This partnership has tangible benefits.”

Ah, a partnership. A business-of-convenience of sorts. I’ve been an absolute fool.

“This isn’t going to work,” I say, finally seeing what everyone else has seen: Carmella’s attempt to step into Elowen’s life. “Whatever partnership you’re envisioning is most definitely not happening.”

Carmella’s expression doesn’t change, but her body tenses slightly. “You’re upset about Elowen’s reaction, and that’s understandable. But she’s made her choice, Julian.She left you.”

“I’m not interested in a business or personal relationship with you.”

“You don’t mean that. You’re blinded right now. The gala was just the beginning. We make sense together…everyone sees it.”

“Everyone sees what you want them to, and what I naively agreed to. But none of it is true.”

“Imageisreality, Julian. You know that better than anyone.” She gestures to the office around us. “Everything you’ve built is based on the perception of what you want the public to see. I’m simply helping you maintain your vision during this difficult time.”

“No,” I say, my voice stronger now. “You’re trying to capitalize on a ‘difficult’ time. There’s a difference.”

For the first time, her composure cracks in a flash of anger.

“I see.” She begins gathering her documents. “You’re not thinking clearly. We’ll discuss this when you’re rational.”

“We won’t be discussing it at all,” I say firmly. “Whatever you thought was happening between us isn’t happening. The charity gala was a mistake I won’t be repeating.”

She slides the papers back into her portfolio. “You’ll change your mind,” she says, not looking at me. “When you understand what I can offer that she couldn’t.”

“I already know exactly what I’ve lost,” I reply. “And it’s not something you can replace.”

Carmella stands, adjusting her suit jacket. Her expression is composed but cold, like water freezing over. “Call me when you’re ready. This emotional phase doesn’t suit you, Julian.”

As she’s opening the door, I get a helpful idea, “Carmella?”

She turns around and hope flashes across her features. “Hmm?”

“Perhaps try Tinder, yeah? Tell the algorithm you’re searching for a marriage-of-convenience.”

She huffs and storms out. I don’t know why, honestly. It was helpful advice. It’s not like I suggested Craigslist…not after the whole Craigslist Killer debacle.

Chapter 17