Page 204 of Pure Recklessness

‘I thought we weren’t getting revenge?’ I cocked a curious brow.

‘I didn’t say we won’t get revenge. I said we shouldn’t focus on getting revenge right now. At the moment, our priority is SatisFya. But once that’s launched and is a huge success, I’ve got something in mind to make sure that cow gets what she deserves. And the best part is, she’ll never see it coming…’ A devious glint flashed in her eyes.

‘I like the sound of that very much.’ I grinned.

Geoff pulled up outside the office, which just like last night was packed with paps.

‘Remember not to look at them or engage in any questions,’ I reminded Ellie, who’d already been briefed by Calista.

‘Yep. And as soon as we’re inside, I’ll go straight to Melissa’s office for the HR interview. After that, I’ll wait in the meeting room on your floor with Dana until you’re ready to address the team.’

‘Yes.’ I nodded. ‘Ready?’

‘As I’ll ever be.’

I pressed a kiss on her lips before we both stepped out of the car.

Once I took Ellie’s hand, we strode into the building ignoring the cameras flashing around us.

Whilst a security guard escorted Ellie to meet Melissa, I headed to my office.

When I arrived, my brothers were already sprawled across the sofa.

‘Morning.’ I sat at my desk, wondering if this would still be my office in a few hours.

‘Hi,’ they said solemnly.

‘I know the board are meeting this afternoon, but I’d like to apologise again for not telling you. This relationship wasn’t something I entered into lightly. I tried so fucking hard not to get involved, but in the end, the pull was too strong. If that makes me a weak man or a cliché, then so be it. But like I said yesterday, I don’t regret it, because Ellie’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I know you’re angry at me for putting the company at risk and rightly so. It’s business and I fucked up. But as my brothers, I hope you can be happy for me.’

The silence stretched for what felt like hours, but there was nothing more I could say. Instead, I clasped my hands together, leant forward and waited for their reaction.

Seb rose to his feet and came over. I stood up, ready for whatever happened next.

‘I’m happy for you.’ He wrapped his arms around me then patted me on the back. ‘You’ve been a different man these past few months. Good different. Ellie’s good for you.’

‘Yeah, bro,’ Oscar agreed, coming over to join the hug.

When we all pulled away, our gaze went to Heath who blew out a frustrated breath.

‘I want to be happy for you.’ He sighed, still firmly seated. ‘But once bitten, twice shy. Even though you fucked up, I still love you, big brother, but I’m going to need time. I need to know that this isn’t some kind of mid-life crisis infatuation where a younger woman flutters her lashes at you and you drop your boxers. I need to be sure that it doesn’t cause the company problems if you get bored of each other. Surely you can understand that?’

‘I understand your concerns. In your position I’d probably think the same. But this is different. Trust me.’

Heath nodded then got up.

‘Move over, fuckers,’ he said to Seb and Oscar. ‘You’ve had your hugs. It’s my turn.’ Heath snaked his arm around my back then slapped it so hard he almost winded me. Better than a punch in the face though, so I’d take it. ‘Sorry I caused a scene last night.’

‘So you should be, you fucking drama queen.’ I gave him a tight hug.

‘Awww,’ Oscar said. ‘Come on, you two lovebirds, bring it in. You too, Seb.’

Oscar opened his arms for a group hug and we all dove in, almost suffocating him in the process.

‘I love you, arseholes,’ I said. ‘Thanks for having my back.’

‘Always,’ they chorused.

‘Now we’ve all kissed and made up and you’re going to be addressing the team, what are we going to do about that Pandora problem?’ Heath said.