Page 141 of Dirty Rival
“That’s a good idea. And for a proposal, that’s perfect. I’m so happy for you.”
I shut the box and stick it in the bag and then in my desk in case Carrie comes in. “Cat.”
“Yes?”
“There are reasons I was like I was to you.”
She holds up a hand. “You don’t have to do this.”
“I just want you to know that I regret a lot with you.”
“Don’t do anything to regret anymore. That’s all that matters. Okay?”
“Deal.”
She walks around the desk and kisses my cheek. “Later, big brother.”
“Later, little sis.”
I watch her leave and I know that this new bond with Cat might have begun before Carrie, but Carrie is why it took root. My family is closer because of her, but I still battle with the secret between us. And yet, there is nothing I can do about it. If I tell her, we both lose everything, including each other.
Carrie
Two days before Reid and I leave for Japan, I’m planning details for the Bennett takeover of the facility with Sallie when my father calls. “I need to take this alone,” I say.
She nods and leaves, shutting my door. “Hello,” I say.
“How are you?”
“I’m well, very well.”
“And still with Reid, I hear.”
“That’s not going to change. What’s happening in Montana?”
“I proposed to Stella. We’re getting married in January. I’m taking over the ranch management and I’ve convinced her to drill on limited portions of the property. You should have your money back and increased thirty percent by summer.”
“That’s all great,” I say, trying to sound sincere, when it’s hard to be sincere with someone who doesn’t offer that in return.
“I want you at the wedding, but not him. He doesn’t get to come.”
“He’s a part of me now.”
“No. You just don’t see him for what he is and—”
“Stop,” I bite out. “Stop talking. I need to go. I’m leaving for Japan in two days.”
“What about Christmas?”
“I’m spending it with Reid and you’re spending it with Stella. I love you, dad. I really hope we can get by this. I hope we can find each other again, but that’s going to mean you get over the hate for the man I love. He’s not his father.”
“He’s worse.”
“Goodbye, father.”
I hang up and I’m shaking. I don’t know why this got to me so badly but when my door opens and Reid stands there, he knows immediately. “What’s wrong?”
“My father called.”