Chapter 11
COOPER
The ringing of my phone startles me awake. I push my sleeping mask up, wincing as the daylight blinds me. God, what time is it? My hand fumbles for my phone on the nightstand, and I squint at the screen—Casey’s calling, and it’s almost 11:00 AM. I swipe to answer, my voice groggy. “Holy shit, sis. I’m just waking up.”
Casey laughs. “Oh my God. Isn’t it like eleven there? Are you hungover or something?”
“No. I had a couple of drinks last night, but only two. Ugh, I hate sleeping this late. Makes me feel tired all day.”
“Yeah, I hate that too.” Casey pauses. “Hey, did you book your flight out here yet? Or at least figure out the dates? I’m trying to plan some holiday stuff and I don’t want to overlap with your visit.”
“I haven’t booked it yet. I’m still waiting on Brad. But don’t plan around me. I’ll be there for at least a week, maybe longer. I’ll talk to him today and let you know.”
“Okay. So, did you go out with girlfriends last night?”
“No, I was working late.”
“But you said you had drinks,” she says, confused.
“Oh. Um, yeah. I had drinks with Ryan, at work, if you can believe that.” I laugh, trying to downplay it. “I actually drank margaritas at work, with my sort of boss, while working. How cool is my job?”
“What? Yeah, your job gets cooler every time I talk to you. But can we go back to you having drinks with Ryan? What’s that about?”
I laugh uncomfortably, feeling a weird knot forming in my stomach. “Well, we were working late, and he said he needed a break—asked if I wanted to go upstairs to the cocktail lounge for drinks. He said we could work there. So, we did, and it was productive and fun.”
“What do you mean by fun?” she presses, her tone full of curiosity.
I choose my words carefully. “I don’t know. We worked, we laughed, it wasn’t anything serious. That kind of fun.”
“Uh-huh. Sure. Are you slowly falling in love with your boss?”
“Okay, shut up.”
She laughs. “Relax. I’m joking. I just find it interesting that Ryan went from one-night stand, to boss, to hating him, to working with him, to now you’re having drinks together and enjoying his company. I mean, it’s confusing, sis.”
I roll my eyes as I get up to make coffee. “Yeah, I guess it is,” I mutter.
“Do you like him?”
“Casey, don’t ask me that. Why would you ask that when you know I love Brad?” I reach for the coffee grounds, my fingers fumbling as I try to sound casual. “I know you don’t like him, but…”
“But,” Casey cuts in, her voice dripping with teasing sarcasm, “it’s hard not to notice you’re having fun with your boss—oh wait, I mean the guy you had the most incredible sex of your life with.”
My heart skips a beat. I try to laugh it off, but the comment hits me like a ton of bricks—forcing me to look at it—the truth of it. I open my mouth to respond just as the front door unlocks and swings open. Brad walks in, his keys jangling as he steps inside.
“Oh, hey, Brad just got home. Can I call you back later?”
“Yeah, call me tomorrow. I’ll be busy the rest of the day.”
“Okay, great. Love you,” I say, keeping my voice steady as I glance toward Brad, who’s setting his things down on the countertop.
“Love you too, sis,” Casey replies.
I end the call, walking over to Brad. “Hey, I didn’t think you’d be home for another hour or so.”
“The flight landed early.” His eyes travel over me. “Did you just wake up?” he asks, chuckling.
I glance down at my oversized T-shirt and bare legs, trying not to laugh. “Yep,” I admit. I wrap my arms around his neck and kiss him, trying to shake off the lingering unease from my conversation with Casey. “How was your trip? Did you get everything done that you were hoping for?”
“Yeah. It was a very successful trip. I managed to satisfy our pain-in-the-ass client and close that deal.”
“Ah, that’s great, babe. Are you hungry? I can make us some brunch.” His hand slides under my shirt, his fingers tracing the bare skin of my waist.
“You don’t have any shorts on?” he says, raising an eyebrow.
“No, sir, I do not,” I reply seductively.
Brad lifts me onto the countertop, his hand sliding up my thigh. “Then I know exactly what I want for brunch,” he whispers, his lips brushing mine. I inhale sharply, letting my legs spread to make room for him.
“I missed you,” he murmurs against my lips.
“I missed you too,” I whisper. His body feels good against mine, familiar. I melt into his kiss, his hands wandering higher, fingers brushing the edge of my underwear. A pulse beats between my thighs as his mouth trails down my neck.
“I want you,” I murmur, my hands caressing the back of his neck, desperate to forget my phone call with Casey.
“Patience,” he says with a chuckle, slipping his hand beneath the fabric. I gasp, letting go of everything but the way he makes me feel.
We don’t make it to the bedroom. We stay right there on the counter, lost in each other. Afterward, I clean up and make us some brunch.
“What time is that party tonight?” Brad asks, as he takes a bite of his burger.
“It starts at seven, so I was thinking we could get there around seven-thirty?” I sip my water. “I know you don’t love these things, but I appreciate you going.”
“I don’t mind going, baby. I’m actually looking forward to seeing where you work.”
I smile. “Well, that’s good then.”
* * * * * ? * * * * *
As I get ready for the party, my anxiety starts to get the best of me. I can’t stop thinking about last night—Ryan’s words echoing in my head: If things were different, I think you’d know exactly what I’m looking for…
What did he mean by that?
If things were different … I hate how much I care. It’s ridiculous. I just had incredible sex in the kitchen hours ago with my fiancé, the man I love. But somehow, when I’m with Ryan, I miss Brad less. And when I’m not with Ryan, I find myself missing him, too.
I’m nervous about Brad meeting Ryan. Brad’s not stupid, and he’s always been the jealous type. I haven’t been completely honest with him either—he thinks I’m working on this project with a whole team. I told him Ryan, Genevieve, and I are the leads, but I left out the part where it’s just been Ryan and me staying late. And I definitely didn’t mention that it’ll only be the two of us traveling to Austin.
Shit. I suddenly feel like bringing Brad into my work life is a terrible idea. I stare at myself in the mirror, taking a deep breath before slowly blowing it out. I can do this.
“ I am strong. I am brave. I am beautiful. I am enough, ” I whisper to my reflection, repeating the mantra I’ve told myself countless times when I’ve felt like I couldn’t keep going. These words have been whispered into this mirror hundreds of times—sometimes through smiles, but mostly through tears. I’ve got this.
I smooth down the rich burgundy fabric of the dress I bought, the one that hugs my curves perfectly. It fits like a glove, from the sweetheart neckline down to the hem that lands mid-thigh. Thin spaghetti straps leave my shoulders bare, and the corset-style top makes my boobs look incredible. Cinched tightly at the waist, it gives me that perfect hourglass shape.
I turn slightly, peeking at the back. Damn, it’s a pretty dress. The back laces up in a crisscross of thin straps, giving it just the right amount of playful edge. It feels sexy, the way it shows off so much of my back, but there’s something empowering about it, too. The deep color pops against my fair skin, making me feel bold and confident.
I finish putting soft waves in my hair and can’t wait to see Brad’s reaction when I step out. He’s always been a sucker for a sexy dress. But in the back of my mind, I hope Ryan notices me in it, too. And God, the guilt washes over me.
Is it normal to feel something like this when you love someone else? Is this what Brad feels when he cheats on me?
Brad walks in, eyes widening. “Holy shit, baby.”
“Agh, you’re not supposed to come in yet! I was going to make a dramatic entrance.”
He grins, looking me up and down. “I don’t need a show. I want you bent over somewhere, in this dress, now ,” he playfully demands.
“Well, you’re just going to have to wait.”
Brad steps closer, arms reaching for me, lust clear in his eyes.
“No, babe,” I say, swatting his hands away and pulling back. “No touchy. Not yet. Let it build.”
“Jesus. You’re killing me,” he groans, shaking his head.
I press a hand to his chest with a smile. “You’ll survive. Besides, look at you—you’re devilishly handsome tonight.” I plant a soft kiss on his lips before stepping back. “Come on, let’s go.”
* * * * * ? * * * * *
We’ve been here for thirty minutes, and I’ve somehow managed to avoid bumping into Ryan. I’m postponing that meeting for as long as possible, guzzling my drink like a twenty-one-year-old at their first bar. I’ve caught Ryan’s eye from across the room a couple of times. It felt like he was checking me out, but I can’t be sure—there are a lot of people here.
The entire floor is decked out with classy holiday decor, from garlands and bouquets to sparkling centerpieces on every table. The bar area is dimly lit, creating a warm, moody ambiance, while a live piano player in the corner fills the room with soothing renditions of classic Christmas music. Whoever planned this party nailed it—everything feels elegant yet inviting. I’ve introduced Brad to a few people on my team, but we’ve spent most of the night chatting with Genevieve.
“So, Genevieve,” Brad says, swirling his drink, “Cooper mentioned you’re working on this expansion with her?”
Genevieve looks at me, clearly confused. I shoot her a pleading look, silently begging her to cover for me.
“Oh, yeah,” she says, smiling smoothly at Brad. “It’s been really busy, but exciting. Cooper does most of the heavy lifting, though. She’s great at her job.”
I mouth a silent thank you to her, and she gives a subtle nod.
Then Genevieve’s eyes light up as she spots someone behind me. “Oh hey, there’s Leo and Vivian. Have you met them yet, Cooper?”
“No, I haven’t had the chance.”
“Well, let me introduce you both. They’re with Ryan—come on,” Genevieve says, leading the way. I hesitate for a split second, but reluctantly follow.
“Ryan?” Brad asks, his curiosity piqued. “Isn’t that the guy you and Genevieve are working with on the expansion?”
“Yeah… I’ll introduce you.” I send a silent prayer up that this stays normal.
“Ryan!” Genevieve calls out. Ryan turns toward us, his gaze landing on me before shifting to Brad, then back to me.
“Hey, Cooper,” he says, flashing a smile that feels both too warm and too knowing. Then, turning to Brad, he offers his hand. “Hi, I’m Ryan. You must be Brad. I’ve heard so much about you.”
Brad shakes his hand, but his smile doesn’t quite reach his eyes. “Nice to meet you, Ryan. Funny thing—I’ve heard almost nothing about you,” he says, his gaze sliding over to me. “Except that you’re on this expansion project with Cooper and Genevieve.”
Oh. My. God. I feel my stomach drop.
Ryan gives me a knowing look. “Well, there’s not much to tell about me. Just a guy who works a lot—like you, I’ve been told.”
Genevieve jumps in, thank God . “Ryan, Cooper hasn’t met the Westons yet. I thought you could introduce them since they’re your friends.”
“Oh, sure.” He turns and taps a man on the shoulder, who turns around. And holy hell—hello Mr. Weston . Genevieve wasn’t exaggerating—Leo is incredibly attractive. He taps the woman next to him on her shoulder, and when she turns, I realize this must be Vivian. She’s just as stunning as Leo, a real Hollywood red-carpet-worthy couple.
“Leo, this is Cooper, the new Project Manager for Nexlytic, and her fiancé, Brad. Cooper, this is Leo and Vivian—they own Elemental Hub and are the hosts of tonight’s party.”
“Nice to meet you, mate,” Leo says, shaking Brad’s hand first, then extending his hand to me. “Cooper, it’s great to finally put a face to the name. I’ve heard great things about you,” he says. There’s a brief pause before he adds, “and your work,” as if catching himself.
Brad raises an eyebrow. “Leo Weston? As in the Leo Weston—big-time real estate investor, Leo Weston?”
Leo gives a small, self-deprecating smile. “I dabble here and there, but yeah, I’ve done a bit of real estate.”
“More than a bit,” Brad says, grinning. “You’re practically a legend. I’ve followed some of your projects—you’ve built quite a portfolio.”
Leo nods modestly. “That’s kind of you to say. What line of work are you in that has you following my projects?”
Brad leans in, his interest evident. “I’m in mergers and acquisitions. I’ve handled a few deals involving property development and investment portfolios, so your name comes up quite a bit. It’s impressive.”
The two of them dive into conversation, leaving me to wonder why Leo Weston would know anything about me. Heard great things about me? Why? My mind spins, and as I glance at Leo and Ryan, now fully engaged in a conversation with Brad, it hits me—they’re friends.
And then it dawns on me. Ryan might have told him about me—about Newport.
And that is not ideal.
Vivian gasps. “Cooper, I love your dress. It’s gorgeous.”
“Thank you. That’s so nice of you. I love yours as well,” I say.
“Thank you. So, how are you liking it here?” Vivian asks me.
“I’m really liking it… It’s been good for me.”
“That’s great. And you’ve got such a solid team. I heard you and Ryan are working on a project together?” she asks, glancing over at him.
“Yeah, we are. It’s a lot of work, but it’s coming together,” I reply, trying to keep my tone casual.
“That’s good. Well, Ryan’s a great guy. I’m sure he’s easy to work with.”
“Yeah, he is a good guy,” I say, though what I really want is to pull Vivian aside and ask all the things Ryan won’t tell me.
“Oh! Vivian, I’ve been meaning to ask,” Genevieve says, lowering her voice slightly. “Have you heard anything about Beth recently?”
Vivian shifts, casting a quick glance at the guys. “I have… but I’m not sure if I should be the one to talk about it. You’ll have to ask Ryan.”
Genevieve sighs, clearly disappointed. “Yeah, okay. That makes sense.”
I frown, feeling suddenly out of the loop. “Who’s Beth?” I ask, trying to mask the unease rising inside me.
Genevieve turns to me with a quick glance at Vivian before her voice drops to almost a whisper. “Beth is Ryan’s wife.”
Wife?
I freeze, my heart sinking into my stomach. I can feel my pulse quicken as my mind scrambles to process what she just said.
“Wait, what? Ryan’s married?” What the fuck?
Genevieve turns to me, eyebrows raised. “Yeah, you don’t know about Beth? I figured, with how much time you two spend together, it would’ve come up.”
My mind reels. Married? After everything he’s said to me about Brad? The anger boils up inside me, a knot of betrayal tightening in my gut.
Vivian looks uncomfortable, her brows knitting together. “I don’t think we should talk about Beth here. It’s Ryan’s life, and I don’t feel right discussing it.”
I force a smile, my throat tightening. “Will you excuse me?” I say, my voice strained. “I’m going to grab another drink. Do you ladies want anything?” They both tell me they're good, and I’m beelining it to the open bar before I really process their answers.
Ryan’s married. I let that fact sink in. The nerve of him—the audacity—to confront me that first week of work, accusing me of being dishonest about my relationship with Brad. Ugh . He made me question myself, made me feel like a cheater, like a shitty person. And all along, he had a wife ?
“Can I get a shot of tequila, please?” I ask the bartender. The glass appears, and I kick it back with ease. I need more than a buzz to numb the thoughts that are spinning in my head.
I turn to find Brad, to drag him out of here, but then I see Ryan approaching the bar. His eyes lock onto mine, and that cocky grin of his surfaces, as if he hasn’t been lying to me for months now.
“Can I get a Blue Moon, a Guinness, and a tequila neat?” he asks the bartender before his attention flicks back to me.
He chuckles. “Did you just take a shot by yourself?”
“Yup. Sometimes you just need to take the edge off.” I pause, asking myself if being a total bitch is necessary—and yeah, it is. I turn to him. “You ever think you know someone and then”—I smack my hands together, the sound sharp—”bam, surprise, you didn’t know shit?” My tone drips with sarcasm as I stare him down.
Ryan’s eyes narrow slightly, but he plays it cool. “Alright, subtle. Are you talking about me? If you’ve got something to say, just say it.”
I let out a dry, humorless laugh, shaking my head. “Why would I have something to say to you? It’s not like you tell me shit.”
His gaze sharpens, but he still doesn’t push. Is he confused? Does he know why I’m pissed, or is he just too arrogant to care? Either way, I’m done.
I grab the Blue Moon that I know is for Brad and walk off to find him.
“Hey, babe, I brought you your beer,” I say, handing it to him.
Brad takes it, eyeing me. “Thanks. Were you just taking shots with Ryan?” His tone is casual, but the question catches me off guard.
“No. I took one by myself, and then Ryan came over to get drinks for you guys.”
Brad raises an eyebrow. “You never take shots. What’s up?”
I shrug, playing it cool. “I don’t know, just felt like one.”
“Is something wrong?”
Great. Now I have Brad up my ass with suspicion. “No. You know I’m just more of an introvert. I’m feeling anxious, I guess.”
“Why do you feel anxious?” he asks, his tone cautious, probing but not aggressive.
“Brad, don’t quiz me right now, okay? I just wanted to loosen up. I wasn’t really feeling my drink, so I took a shot to get a little buzz going quicker.” I flash him a flirty smile, rubbing his arm. “Besides, you’ve never complained about me getting drunk before.”
He smiles for a moment but then his expression hardens. “That Ryan guy wants to fuck you.”
I laugh it off, shaking my head. “What? No, he doesn’t.”
Brad’s chuckle is humorless, his voice dropping. “You’re too trusting. I know when a guy is into someone, and he’s definitely into you. I’m not thrilled about you going out of town with him next week.”
“God, Brad. That’s ridiculous. For one, Ryan’s married. And two, I’m with you—I love you and would never cheat on you. This is my job, and I like it. And while I appreciate your concern, your suspicions don’t get to dictate whether I go out of town or not for a project I’m leading.”
Brad’s expression tightens, but his voice is calm. “I’m not trying to control you, baby. But I’ve got valid concerns here. I don’t know this guy, and I don’t trust him. And honestly, I’m not sure you do either.”
I grab his arm, pulling him farther from the crowd, my heart racing as I glance around to make sure no one’s listening. “You don’t need to trust him, Brad. You need to trust me.”
His jaw clenches, and he gives me a long look. “It’s not about you. I trust you. But you’re being naive. Guys like Ryan… when they’re interested, they find a way. Married or not, they’ll push until you’re right where they want you to be. I’ve seen how this goes down. I’m just trying to keep you from making a mistake you’ll regret.”
I take a step closer, my voice dropping to a near whisper, eyes locked on his. “Oh, speaking from experience, are we? You’d know all about guys who can’t keep it in their pants, wouldn’t you?”
Brad’s face goes cold, the color draining from his cheeks. For a moment, he’s speechless, and I relish the silence.
“Don’t throw that in my face, Cooper.”
“Oh, I’ll throw it in your face every time you act like a hypocrite,” I snap back, my voice shaking with anger.
What am I doing? Normally, I’d never push back like this—especially not in public. I hate scenes, hate the fallout that comes later. But tonight? Tonight, I can’t help myself. Is it because I know there’s truth to his accusation—that I want it to be true? Dammit, I don’t know.
Brad’s jaw clenches. “Alright, let’s be done here. I’m ready to fucking go.”
I take a deep breath. “No, Brad. If you want to go, go. But I’m staying. I’m here with my colleagues, and I’m going to enjoy myself.”
Brad takes a breath. I know he’s pissed, but I also know he won’t make a scene. “Fine. If that’s what you want, we’ll stay. I’ll deal with your problems like I always do.”
There it is. He always manages to twist things so I’m the problem, the difficult one. Even when he’s the one who cheated, somehow it’s still about him—how he’s not getting what he needs from me. God, I’m getting so sick of it. I’m exhausted with this whole situation. For a moment, I let myself flirt with Ryan, indulge in the idea of something more—but turns out, Ryan’s just like Brad. Hell, just like all men. They want one thing, and that’s it. Fine. I’m here for it—I like good sex as much as anyone—but let’s not pretend it’s anything more.