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The music plays, and Asher makes his way to the front. Hehasworked hard this past year. No one in this room can deny that. Many stop to shake his hand as he moves toward the stage. Eventually, he makes it to the front as the fanfare for him continues.
I’m disappointed I didn’t win, but I’m happy Josh isn’t the one accepting the award. Between Asher and Josh—as much as it pains me to say this—I’ll choose Asher any day of the week.
6
ASHER
Imake my way to the front of the beautiful auditorium. Everyone rises to their feet, offering me a standing ovation as the award is handed over. I’m overwhelmed with emotion as I adjust the microphone. Right now, I’m aware that I’m surrounded by the most successful entrepreneurs on the planet.
“Wow, I’m at a loss for words,” I say, choking up, knowing I’ve crossed an item off my sister’s dream-goal list.
The golden-plated cityscape is heavy in my hands. I hold it, and it glimmers in the light.
“It’s truly an honor to stand before some of the greatest. Many of you know I don’t do this for recognition or money, but to honor my sister, Eden. The firm wouldn’t exist today without her vision. She desperately dreamed of helping those who made a positive difference in the world. Eden was the embodiment ofpeople over profits. That’s now my mission. And I will honor her with everything I do, even if many of you don’t understand it at first. Eventually, you will. I’ve learned to trust the process and enjoy the journey because this might be all we have—this very moment in time.”
I meet Billie’s eyes across the room, and our gazes lock. I clearmy throat, almost losing my train of thought as I glance around the room at my peers.
“Each of us can make a positive impact, even just a small one. Being your Cityscape CEO of the year is something I will forever cherish, but we have more work to do. What imprint willyouleave when you’re gone? What’s your legacy? This is your moment of truth. We only get one chance at this, so make it count without regrets. If you want it, be willing to fight for it. Be willing to clap for yourself when no one else will. Work the long hours that no one recognizes but you. In the end, you are all you’veeverneeded. I believe in you.”
The music starts playing, and I know I’ve used up my time, but I continue, “I’d like to end this with one of my sister’s favorite quotes. ‘Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.’ Thank you all.” I hold the award in the air. I place my fingers on my lips, kiss them, then point up. “This is for you, sis. And yes, I’m going to keep being an Ash-hole,” I whisper, holding back the emotions that threaten to take over as I mention the nickname she always used for me.
My eyes scan across the room, and everyone smiles wide, clapping, until I get to Billie. I can’t read her expression as the room fades to nothing.
I lift the trophy toward her with a nod and a smirk. “I won.”
She rolls her eyes.
Typical.
After a few more seconds, I’m escorted off the stage, where I’m greeted with expensive champagne. Media waits in the hallway to get interviews for several business magazines. I stop for a few, being asked the same questions as usual. It’s almost as if these interviewers are pulling from the same script.
Instead of heading to the after-party, I text my brother.
Asher
I’m leaving.
Nick
No prob! Congrats. I saw you won! You did it.
Asher
We did it. Eden would be so happy!
Nick
She would. I’m proud of you, little brother. I know she is too.
Asher
Thanks. Means a lot.
I step outside and wait for the SUV to pull around. I get in, and as I buckle, the passenger door opens. My brows knit together when I look into Billie fucking Calloway’s cold blue eyes.
“I don’t want to deal with you privately,” I tell her, knowing she’s had too much to drink. I have too. “Get out.”
“Absolutely not,” she states. “Driver, please continue.”