Page 52 of Capturing Love

“Why you lied to me?”

“I didn’t lie. I don’t lie.”

I crossed my arms and lifted my brow. “Sorry. I meant deliberately withhold information.”

“Listen, I never thought my father would go ahead with it, so there was no point in telling you.”

Pursing my lips, I looked away and remained silent.

Grayson rubbed the back of his neck. “After Hank and Sabrina’s wedding, I was desperate to talk to you, so I found out what magazine you work for. I did a little research on the company, with the sole intention of finding your contact details, when I discovered it was for sale. I did my due-diligence and it was an amazing deal, exactly the sort of business I’ve been looking for. My father isn’t keen on these types of magazines, so I didn’t think anything would come of it.”

“You could have at least given me a heads up,” I said, still fuming.

“Trust me, I tried. When I got back to LA to find out Adam had already left to finalise the sale, I wanted to call you, but your number was in my cell. I tried calling your office yesterday, but you never answered.”

I shook my head and stood to leave.

“Josie, I had no prior intention of pursuing this business. Only you.”

My breath hitched and I turned back to him.

His eyes bled honesty. “But this is a big deal for me. It’s the first time my father has ever supported one of my ventures.”

The door swung open and Adam marched into the room.

Grayson stood up and his expression instantly changed. “Consider this a formal warning. Be late again and you’re done here,” he said sternly.

I blinked a few times like I’d been slapped. Adam’s eyebrows rose and he flicked his head to the door. With a scowl, I stormed out of the room, hearing Adam chuckle as I slammed the door behind me.

* * *

Luci enjoyed an extra-long walk that night. I strolled around the park numerous times until the sun had set and only darkness remained. I never had to worry too much with Luci by my side. Even in the daylight, no one ever seemed to bother me.

As I turned the last corner to my apartment, Luci let out a low growl. Shadowing his foggy senses, I discovered Grayson sitting at the top of the stairs that led to the entrance of my building. He lifted his eyes at the sound and met my narrowing gaze.

Luci continued his menacing rumble and I let him.

Grayson rose and slid his hands into his pockets, warily walking down to meet me. His blazer was gone and his tie hung loose from his buttoned-down shirt. As his foot left the last step, Luci’s growl grew louder and he froze.

“Take your hands out of your pockets,” I ordered.

His eyebrows pulled together. “What?”

“Just do it.”

He pulled out his hands and Luci moved closer. He sniffed the air and whimpered before sitting and lifting his paw to shake hands. Traitor.

Grayson laughed and shook his giant paw. “Hey, Luci.”

“What are you doing here, Grayson? Or do I have to call you William now? Or is it Mr. Harlow?”

He lowered his gaze. “Grayson is fine.”

“And at work?” I asked, looking away.

He sighed. “The latter is preferable.”

I chuckled and pushed past him to climb the stairs.