Page 106 of Before Dawn

After the speeches, we worked the room. Sapphire handled investors, Morison engaged with the media, and I made sure to be everywhere, shaking hands, answering questions, and solidifying connections.

Sapphire smirked as she approached. “Did you catch that reporter’s eye? She seemed very interested in our tech features.”

I let out a short laugh. “Good. Let’s keep the momentum going.”

As the evening wore on, I slipped away for a few minutes to check in on Abigail before returning to the mix. That’s when Damon Ashford, one of the most skeptical investors, approached me.

“I’ll admit, Suarez, I had my doubts. Big ones.” He gestured to the crowd, his smirk just this side of impressed. “But after seeing all this? Let’s just say, I wouldn’t bet against you. This kind of vision would do well in Seattle.”

“This is just the beginning,” I said, matching his energy. “Good. Let’s keep them talking.”

Sapphire joined us, eyes sharp with satisfaction. “We’ve already had new investors express interest.”

Ashford nodded, his skepticism fading. “Nowthat’sthe kind of talk I want to hear. Looking forward to more business with you, Suarez.”

The night ended with a toast—glasses raised, deals secured, the promise of something bigger taking root.

Then we were off, rushing to catch a flight to Seattle for an acquisition meeting before heading home. Exhaustion clung to me like a second skin, but there was no time to dwell on it. By the time we landed in New York, I’d texted Abigail, stolen three hours of sleep, and thrown myself right back into the grind. No rest for the relentless.

“Good morning, everyone,” I said, stepping into my office. My team straightened as I walked in, their attention snapping to me. “Sapphire, do we have the final itinerary for the Dupont event tonight?”

“Yes, it’s all set,” she replied, handing me a neatly organized folder. “Drivers are briefed, and the cars are ready to go.”

“Excellent.” I flipped through the documents. “David, any updates on the maintenance checks for the fleet?”

“Just finished up. All vehicles are in top shape.”

“Good. We have a new client meeting at three. Let’s make sure everything is seamless.”

My phone buzzed, Abigail’s name flashing across the screen. My chest warmed instantly. “Excuse me for a moment.” Stepping into my office, I shut the door behind me and answered.

“Hey, Red.” My voice softened automatically. “Are you okay?”

“I’m good.” She sounded gentle, but there was something underneath—something quieter, harder to read.

“Miss me?”

“I do.” There was a pause.

I exhaled, leaning against my desk. “I’m sorry for the lack of communication today. I got in late this morning, and I’m at the office now. Things have been hectic with the expansion. I’ve got a client meeting soon, then I need to sign off on some paperwork with Sapphire.”

“Sapphire?” Her tone shifted. It wasn’t obvious—just a small flicker, like a note played off-key.

I frowned slightly. “She’s the operations manager.”

“Right,” she murmured. A little cooler now. Not cold, but careful.

“What’s wrong?”

Silence. Not long, but just enough. And when she finally spoke, her voice was quieter, hesitant.

“It’s nothing.” Too quick.

I stayed quiet, waiting her out.

She sighed. “It’s just… I’m not a fan of hearing about other women.” Her words were soft but certain. “I’ve been through some things, and it’s hard not to feel a little uneasy when I hear that.”

“I get it, Red,” I murmured, my voice steady. “But listen to me, there’s no one else. There won’t be. You’re it.”

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