Page 10 of Inevitable

Good point.

I’d never liked the fact that my mom included personal anecdotes about her family, me especially, in her books. But I’d never felt comfortable telling her that. Which was why I often found it easier to avoid her.

“I’ll consider it,” I said, ready to end discussion on the matter. I’d barely returned, and already it felt as if I were being pulled in a million different directions. I couldn’t win. I couldn’t please everyone. And I was sick of trying.

Dad dried his hands on the towel and patted me on the shoulder. “Good. And if you want me to talk to your mom, just say the word.”

I was about to tell him I could handle it when my phone buzzed. I pulled it out of my pocket to see a new text message from Piper.

“Let me guess,” Dad teased. “Your fellow troublemaker?”

I laughed, not surprised he’d guessed who it was from. “Yeah. She wants to meet up.”

I debated deferring to another night. I’d just gotten back in town, and I knew my dad wanted to spend time with me.

“You should go.” Dad pushed off the counter. “Apart from family, there’s nothing more important than your friends.” He padded through to the living room.

I shot off a quick text, promising to meet her in an hour. I showered and got dressed, picking through my suitcase before selecting an olive dress that clung to my curves. I curled my black hair in loose waves, swiping some mascara over my lashes before finishing off with a coat of lip gloss.

Lea was in the kitchen when I headed out, letting out a loud wolf-whistle. “Lookin’ good.”

I laughed with a shake of my head, thinking she often felt more like a friend or a big sister than a stepmom. It was one of the things I loved about her.

“I’m glad you’re getting back out there.” She gave me a hug.

I’d long stopped being sad about what had happened with Nico, that feeling quickly replaced by regret and embarrassment. The fact that I’d been so blind when it came to him made me second-guess my ability to coach others. As well as doubt my competence to run a business. And while I didn’t want to admit it, that was a big part of the reason I hadn’t fought my dad harder when he’d pushed me to intern with Jonathan.

“Be safe,” Lea said. “And call if you need a ride.”

I smiled. “Thanks, Lea.”

“Now, go.” She shooed me toward the door. “Before your dad sees you and has a heart attack.”

I rolled my eyes. My dress wasn’tthatscandalous. But sometimes my dad—cool as he was—struggled to see me as an adult.

When I arrived at the rooftop bar, Piper was waiting, drink in hand. Half the men stared at her as she snapped a few selfies and then typed on her phone.

“Hey!” She hopped up from her stool, giving me a hug. “You’re here!” she squealed.

“I am!” I squeezed her.

“Mm, girl. Lookin’ good.”

“You too. Love that dress. And your new haircut is gorgeous.”

“Thanks. And thanks for your latest tips for batching my tasks. It’s been huge.”

“Right?” I was pleased that she’d not only taken my advice, but it was helping. “It’s so much more efficient.” I ordered a lemon drop, thanking the bartender when he delivered it.

“Yes, and I’ve noticed an improvement in my focus too.”

“That’s great!” I swiveled on the stool to face her, and she mirrored my movements.

“So…how does it feel—being home?”

“Fine.” I lifted a shoulder. “Good. Dad wants me to stay with him and Lea.”

“Surprise. Surprise.” She grinned. “What doyouwant to do?”