Page 131 of Rival Hearts

I picked up the remote and turned on the television. A reporter stood at the harbor with a mic, her hair blowing in the wind.

“—Blackwood Inc., a leading name in luxury yacht manufacturing, never fails to surprise us.”

“Why am I watching this?” I asked with a groan.

“Just keep watching.”

“As if their inn is proud to announce a significant shift in its business strategy toward environmental sustainability. We’vewatched closely as the company has navigated one difficult decision after the other, and it seems like they’re serious about taking the plunge.”

I frowned at the screen. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“I don’t know, but since she’s throwing around words likesustainability, it can only be good for your campaign.”

I snorted. “As if the campaign is the reason you’re calling.”

“Just listen,” Maya urged.

“Under the visionary leadership of CEO Alexander Blackwood,” the reporter continued, “the company is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to develop an eco-friendly line of yachts that prioritize environmental responsibility without compromising on luxury or performance.”

“I thought he wasn’t going to do that anymore,” I said to Maya.

Alex appeared on the screen, and my heart skipped a beat as he addressed a group of reporters.

“We recognize our responsibility to the planet and future generations,” he said. “Today, we’re taking a bold step toward a more sustainable future by committing to the development and production of eco-friendly yachts that minimize our environmental footprint while delivering the unparalleled luxury and craftsmanship our clients have come to expect.”

“Alex,” one of the reporters asked, “what about those who don’t agree with your move? Rumor has it that some of your investors aren’t happy with the change in direction.”

“As companies change and grow, our visions align with different people. Seasons change, and so does business. It’s important to recognize when it’s time to work together, and when it’s time to part as friends and go in our own directions, knowing we created something good, but recognizing that change is not our enemy.”

A few other reporters asked questions, but the camera panned back to the reporter delivering the news bulletin.

“The eco-friendly yachts will feature state-of-the-art tech, innovative design, and sustainable materials to reduce carbon emissions, minimize waste, and protect marine ecosystems, according to a press release earlier today by Christopher Blackwood, yacht designer at the company. It seems that the family is determined to make this new direction work. The decision to prioritize environmental sustainability reflects Blackwood Incorporated’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to making a positive impact on the world. The company aims to inspire change within the yacht industry and contribute to the preservation of our planet’s precious natural resources.”

“Oh, shit,” I breathed into the phone.

“He’s doing it, Lottie,” Maya said. “He’s making the change for you.”

I shook my head even though Maya couldn’t see me, trying to gather my thoughts and calm my emotions that were suddenly all over the place.

“He’s not doing anything for me. We’re not together anymore.”

“But you know what… you should be,” Maya said firmly. “I know you have your reasons for telling him off, but the truth is that he’s not doing the thing you were angry about anymore, and you’re so good together. Charlotte, you’re having his baby. But not just that. Youlovehim.”

“I have to go,” I said. “I can’t… I have to go.”

I ended the call before Maya could argue with me and covered my face with my hands. This was too much all at once.

Because Alexhaddone exactly what I’d wanted him to do. And that should have meant the reason for me leaving him would be gone, right? But it wasn’t that simple.

I was still pregnant with his baby, and being with him when I knew being a father wasn’t what he wanted would be wrong.

It was better this way.

It had to be.

I tried to keep myself busy the rest of the day, focusing on anything but what I’d seen on television. When I couldn’t distract myself from thinking about Alex anymore, I showered, got dressed into pajamas, and got into bed.

I was exhausted. These days, it felt like everything was hard work. I was nauseous all the time, and the few things I could eat that didn’t come back up were getting boring.