Page 54 of Antagonist

He snort-laughs. “No, and not just because of that. Although I’m intrigued.”

“When do you need me?”

Harrison bites his lip and lets out a sigh. “Next Friday. Seven o’clock?”

I do a salute. “I’ll be ready for you in my best suit.”

“Come on, let’s get back to work,” he says.

“Wait. What did you want to talk to me about?”

“It’s not important.”

I’m not so sure about that, but I’ll take it for now. After all, we’re about to have a redo of the auction night. Minus the auction, of course.

Which means we can go straight to the good stuff.

I join the group with a smile, and I don’t even care about Melodie’s raised brows and inquisitive look.

16

HARRISON

“Thank you,everyone. This was a good meeting,” Mr. Jones says. He looks around the conference room before setting his eyes on me as he addresses the room. “As you know, I was born and raised in Stillwater. Harrison has recently brought forward a concept to support the local community. I believe Smith, Brown, and Jones could set an example for other local businesses and help bring the community together.”

Bradley raises his hand. “It’s great helping the community, but do we do it at the expense of paying clients? Or are we supposed to do it on our own time?”

Some around the room nod their agreement.

“I understand the challenges presented, which is why I have a further announcement to make.” He meets the eyes of his business partners, Mr. Smith and Mr. Brown. “There comes a time in our lives when as much as we love the job we do, and as worthwhile as that job is, we must take a step back and dedicate our time to new causes, or, as my wife says, finally put up those shelves in the garage before she divorces me and marries the maintenance worker.”

I laugh alongside most of the people in the room.

“Anyway, to cut a long story short, since we all need to get ready for tonight’s event, I want to announce my retirement from the firm. Over the next six months, I will start taking fewer clients and focus on finding a suitable replacement for my old worn shoes. I will also oversee the charitable arm of the firm, which I consider a legacy I’d like to leave behind.”

The other two partners hold their heads low, visibly heavyhearted with their partner’s decision. Mr. Jones is by far my favorite of the partners, so even though I’ve only been in the firm a short time, I’ll definitely miss him.

“But enough of the heavy stuff. I want you all to enjoy tonight. See you all later.”

One by one, everyone shakes Mr. Jones’ hand before leaving the room.

“Mr. Jones,” I say when I have a chance. “It’s a pleasure working with you. I’ll be sad to see you go. If you permit, it would be a pleasure to work with you on the community project. Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.”

“The pleasure is all mine, Harrison. Your work here hasn’t gone unnoticed, but no more business for today. Go home and get ready for the party. Are you bringing someone?”

I feel my face heat as I think of Fletcher. “Yes, sir. I’m bringing a friend.”

“Very well. I’m looking forward to meeting them.”

On my way back to my office, John frantically waves me over.

“What’s up?”

“Megan’s school called. There was an incident or something. They asked if you could pick her up. They said she’s okay, but it might be a good idea for her to go home early.”

“I’m on my way. Can you—”

“Leave everything with me, boss. Call if you need me to make an excuse for you for the party.”