Page 180 of Contentious

“Just pretty good? I need to do a better job.”

“You’re doing just fine.”

“Stay strong. You don’t need me or anyone else to prop you up.”

“You’re right. I don’t, but it’s very nice to have your support.”

“And it’s very nice to have yours. Let’s go slay this day.”

“Commence slaying.”

As she followed him out of the bathroom, she felt calmer and more prepared to face the storm. Was this what it was like to have a real partner who was there for you in the good times and the bad? If so, she could get used to having him around. Who was she kidding? She was already used to having him around and hoped he was planning to stay forever.

Despite his assurances, she was still concerned that he might wake up one day and wonder what’d become of his well-ordered life since he’d signed on with her and gotten himself stabbed and kidnapped and now engulfed in scandal. What man wouldn’t run for his life from that kind of drama, especially one who’d never wanted a relationship in the first place?

The thought of him walking away was profoundly depressing, but she had enough to deal with today without worrying about that as she took a call from Teagan.

“Thank goodness you finally picked up, Cresley. I assume you’ve seen the TMZ story?”

“I have.”

“Why do you sound so calm?”

“Because it’s been pointed out to me that this is a much bigger story than how it affects me, and far more powerful people than I’ll ever be will handle it for all of us.”

“Hmm, that’s true, but you need to make a statement about this and the kidnapping.”

“No, I don’t. What else can I say about Marlon and his vindictiveness that I haven’t already said? The charges against him speak for themselves, and I’m not giving his latest volley any oxygen to feed the fire.”

“While I admire your poise and determination to rise above it, it’s already taken on a life of its own.”

“With Flynn, Hayden, Marlowe and Team Quantum involved, I have no doubt it’s blowing up into the story of the year. But I have full faith in their ability to manage it on behalf of everyone involved.”

“Wow, I thought you’d be losing your shit.”

“I was. I’m better now.”

“I’d like some of whatever you’re taking.”

“You can’t have him.”

“Oh, I see how it is,” Teagan said with a chuckle. “I’m glad you’re being well supported, and I have to say… I agree about not giving this one any oxygen. Let’s sit on it for now and see how it plays out. I’ll keep you posted.”

“Only as needed. I’m protecting my peace right now.”

“Understood. We’ve got your back.”

“Thanks, Teagan.”

“You got it.”

“Proud of you, kid,” Carson said when she ended the call.

“Aw, thanks. I’m proud of me, too. Not that long ago, I would’ve been in a full-blown meltdown over my reputation being attacked this way, but you’re right about who I am and what I’ve built and how one little weasel can’t undo the goodwill I’ve collected over the years.”

“That’s right. Isla texted to tell me she’s on the way with your stuff and dinner.”

“She’s a gem.”