Chapter Three — Callum
“I’m sorry, Mr. O’Leary. I just don’t think your company is the right fit for us.”
“I understand,” I say. “Thank you for your time.”
I hit end on the Zoom call and look at Trent. I told you so is written all over his face.
“I mean, maybe it has nothing to do with...” I start to say, but he interrupts me.
“He said he didn’t know if you were cutthroat enough.
If you had what it takes,” Trent continues.
“In all the years I’ve known you, Callum, nobody’s ever used any word even resembling soft to describe you.
You’re known for being ruthless. What other evidence could you want?
This girl is affecting you and you know it.
I mean, that’s fine if you’re willing to risk your entire fortune for her.
But just be honest with yourself about it.
Unless that’s something you don’t care about anymore, being honest with yourself. ”
Fuck. I groan, putting my head in my hands.
“You’re right,” I say. “Yeah. You’re right.”
“Well, what are you going to do about it?” he asks.
I have no idea.
Just then, my phone rings. I pick it up.
“Mr. O’Leary, there’s someone here to see you. She says her name is Alex.”
“What does she look like?” I ask my secretary.
“Brown hair. Very pretty. Early or mid twenties.”
“Emerald necklace?” I ask.
“Ah, hold on,” my secretary says. “Yep,” she says a second later.
“Tell her to wait in the waiting room. I’ll be out in a few minutes.”
“Got it.”
Trent looks at me. “You’re gonna let her interrupt your workday like that?”
“I haven’t decided yet,” I say. “I mean, I don’t even know why she’s here.”
“That’s fair,” Trent says. “Do you want to meet her?” I ask.
He nods. “I do, actually. I’ve never seen you like this over a woman. She must be something special.”
“Oh, she is,” I say. “Trust me. She is.”