Chapter 25
Chapter twenty-five
Suit Up
Sophia
Today’s the big day, the first time I will step into Princi this should be one of the proudest moments of my life.
Yet all I can think is that I wish he was here.
“Sophia?” I look up to see my dad staring at me, his eyebrows pinched together. “Did you hear what I said?”
“Sorry, Dad. I zoned out. Just trying out some meditation tips Stella suggested to keep the nerves contained.” Lies. I keep my fingers crossed and hidden inside the sleeve of my coat, just like I did when I was younger. Old habits die hard. His expression softens.
“There’s nothing to be nervous about. You earned this and you’re going to learn from the best. Raf is one of the most impressive lawyers I know.
And I’m not just saying that because he’s my son and he’s married to his job.
” Dad chuckles at his own joke. “Besides, you’ll meet colleagues in the industry in no time.
In fact, Arty mentioned you’re meeting for drinks this week. ”
Part of me can’t wait to just get it over with so I can tick the box and we can move onto talking about something else—anything—else!
Except the upcoming Law Gala ensures there’s plenty of reasons to keep thrusting Arty into conversation.
I don’t answer and my dad continues with his second-favorite topic.
“You know, Princess, you made the right decision to keep Marco at arms-length.”
The term of endearment doesn’t have the same glow it once did, and particularly not when he says it with a scowl twisting his features. “I’m concerned the man he’s become is not the boy you remember. He’s making some decisions he’ll regret, and I don’t want you anywhere near it.”
I grind my teeth. What he’s really saying is he doesn’t want me anywhere near him.
I really need to expedite the apartment hunt.
Between temporarily living at home and now working with my dad, talk of Arty and Marco scratches in my ears like a broken record.
Questions about why my dad is so vehemently against me being with Marco romantically gnaw at me.
But it’s not a conversation for today, so instead I sweep it under the rug to lie in wait with the other unanswered questions, like what did they talk about in his office that summer six years ago, and what fueled their standoff on New Year’s Eve.
I nod to somewhat placate him, but don’t hesitate to add, “Whatever he may be, Marco is best friends with your sons, so he will always be in my life as a friend, too. And just in case you forgot, he’s your best friend’s son.
Please try to remember your manners before you throw accusations out.
” Then to lighten the mood, I joke, “Kinda think that’s 101 for a lawyer, Boss.
” My dad scoffs, his attention now on his phone.
Nevertheless, he takes the light ribbing as it’s intended without pressing his “good-for-nothing-Marco” spiel any further.
The ding of the elevator arriving on our level reminds me exactly why I’m here and the significance of taking this next step.
I straighten my shoulders, lift my head high and officially step over the threshold into the Princi I damn well did it.
I reached the pinnacle of success expected of me.
The only thing that would have made it sweeter would have been celebrating it with the one person I want but don’t trust myself to have.