Miller has the grace to look apologetic, though I doubt he feels it. "Ah, yes. They weren't at liberty to discuss our negotiations. But don't worry—we intend to honor all existing contracts, for now."
For now.The threat isn't subtle.
This asshole.
I can sense Kasen tensing and I glance at him. His hand grips the chair arm so hard I'm surprised it doesn't splinter. "And you felt the need to deliver this news in person because...?"
"Like I said, professional courtesy," Miller repeats, straightening his immaculate tie. "And to let you know my offers for both your companies still stand. In fact, given recent developments..." His gaze drops to my stomach. "I'm prepared to improve them."
"What developments would those be, exactly?" Yeah, I’m going to deny everything until I’m forced to admit it.
"Come on, Miss Callan. You know, in a sense, Portland’s like a small town." His smile turns condescending. "Your situation with Mr. James has become a hot topic of discussion."
Kasen's on his feet before I can blink. "Our situation is none of your fucking business."
"Isn't it?" Miller doesn't even flinch. "Two competitors suddenly involved? A baby on the way? It changes the landscape of this business considerably, I’d say."
The casual way he discusses my pregnancy like it's a business merger makes my blood boil. I rise to stand beside Kasen. "Get out."
"I'm simply pointing out that my offer takes your new circumstances into account. A generous maternity package. Flexibility for family needs." He produces a business card like a magic trick. "When you're ready to discuss terms that work for everyone, call me."
The implication that pregnancy makes me weak, that I need his "family-friendly" accommodations, has me gripping my desk to keep from lunging at him.
"Goodbye, Nolan."
He nods, that infuriating smile never wavering, and leaves without another word.
The second the door closes, I deflate and sink back into my chair. "Fuck."
"He's playing dirty." Kasen runs a hand through his hair, dislodging his beanie. "Using your pregnancy against you."
"Against us," I correct, then freeze. When did I start thinking of us as a unit?
"He knows everything." I look through my glass walls at my employees, several of whom quickly look away. "And if he knows, everyone knows."
"Then we stop hiding," Kasen says simply. "Make an announcement. Control the narrative."
He's right. I hate that he's right, but he is. "I need to talk to my staff."
"Want me to stay?"
I consider it. Having him here would make a statement. But it might also undermine my authority or make it look like I need a man to prop me up.
"No. This is something I need to do alone."
He nods, understanding in his eyes. "I'll head out. But Wren?" He waits until I meet his gaze. "We're going to bury that fucker."
"Damn right we are."
He gathers his things, but pauses at the door. "Remember, dinner’s at six. We'll talk about Eastside after. Figure out a strategy."
"I remember."
He leaves after extracting a promise that I'll eat the lunch he brought. I watch him cross the warehouse floor, several of my employees tracking his progress, then turning to look back up to me.
Kieran appears as if by magic. "Want me to assemble the troops?"
Ah, so now he’s not only appearing out of thin air but also a mind reader.
