Chapter 37
thirty-seven
. . .
WYATT
Fuck. I knew it was a bad idea to meet Lance near the TWA offices. When we sat down at our table, I spotted Blair across the street with Jess, and it looked like Stella and Brandon, too. There’s no way she didn’t see us walk in. My insides are twisting with nerves because even though I told her Lance had rescheduled, I intentionally misled her to think there were no meetings today and I would be nowhere near her offices.
I met Lance to talk through the details needed to wrap up the work around this merger. I wanted to confirm the specifics of the decisions TWA was moving forward with, like timing, impacts on employees, and next steps. The rest of the deal is mostly regulatory process, and I’ve set up the in-house legal team to manage it. They can reach out for any unique concerns or needs on an ad hoc basis.
I also wanted to let Lance know I wouldn’t be coming back to the TWA offices. As much as I want to see Blair, working with her leadership on decisions that impact her directly has become a conflict of interest.
I’ve spent so many years avoiding relationships and intimacy. But I’ve always loved Blair. The realization hit me like a wave, powerful and undeniable. It’s a truth I’ve buried deep, hidden behind career ambitions and family expectations, and now it’s risen to the surface with a clarity I can’t ignore. I want to pursue her, to be with her fully, and I’m willing to make the necessary changes in my life to do so. The connection we share now feels as deep as it was in high school, a bond that time and distance couldn’t diminish. I hope she feels the same, that she sees the potential for us to be something more again.
Lance spent most of the lunch reminding me of my obligation to the NDA and my role of privilege. He knows damn well I’m going to tell Blair. I expect he’ll reach out to my father about the whole thing. I’m not looking forward to that conversation, but it’s going to have to wait. I have one more stop to make.
ME
Headed your way.
JAKE
Sounds good. We’re all ready for you.
When I arrive at the Hays and Cole law firm, I’m greeted by an open reception area and a cheerful woman who’s expecting me. She ushers me down the hall to one of the private conference rooms, letting me know there are refreshments inside.
I sit at the polished mahogany table. The rich scent of leather-bound books and freshly brewed coffee fills the air. Ryan Cole and Matt Hays, the formidable duo behind one of the city’s most prestigious entertainment law firms, sit across from me.
“We’ve been looking forward to this, Wyatt,” Ryan begins, leaning forward with a smile that crinkles the corners of his eyes. “Jake’s been singing your praises for years, and your reputation in the legal community speaks for itself.”
Matt nods in agreement, his hands steepled in front of him. “Absolutely. We’ve wanted you to join us for a long time. Your expertise, particularly in contract negotiations and intellectual property, is exactly what we need to take Hays and Cole to the next level.”
My heart pounds in my chest as a mixture of excitement and trepidation washes through me. This is my dream: to work with the best in the industry and carve out my legacy. Yet, the shadow of my father’s expectations looms large.
“I can’t tell you how much this means to me,” I say, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside. “Joining your firm has always been a goal of mine, but I have to be upfront about the potential blowback. You know my father.”
Ryan nods, and his gaze is sympathetic. “We understand, Wyatt. Family dynamics can be complicated. But we believe in you, and we’re prepared to navigate any challenges that come our way.”
Matt leans in and says in a reassuring tone, “Your father’s firm is well respected, and we have no intention of causing any friction. We can keep this agreement confidential until you’ve had a chance to speak with him. The last thing we want is to put you in a difficult position.”
I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding. “Thank you. That means a lot. I just want to be sure that I’m worth the effort and potential risk for you.”
Ryan smiles warmly. “We have no doubt about that, Wyatt. You’ve already proven your worth. Jake’s endorsement alone speaks volumes, and we trust his judgment implicitly.”
I nod, feeling a swell of gratitude and anticipation. “I appreciate your confidence in me. I promise to give this my all.”
Ryan rises and extends his hand. “Welcome to Hays and Cole, Wyatt. We’re thrilled to have you on board.”
I stand and shake his hand and then Matt’s. “Thank you. I won’t let you down.”
As I leave the office, my mind races with the possibilities ahead—as well as the challenges, the triumphs, and the conversation I need to have with my father. For the first time in a long while, I feel like I’m taking a step toward my future on my own terms, and it feels right.