Page 80 of You, Me, and Forever

“Yeah. I think I made it before she left, but I was too scared to do anything about it. And it doesn’t have anything to do with Dad at this point, if I’m being honest.”

“What is your hesitation?”

“I made it, you know? It’s one of the most brutal career paths, and I just don’t want to let anyone down. People will think I’m insane. Who suffers this long through medical school and residency, only to quit and go play with LEGOs?” He chuckled.

“Samuel fucking St. James. That’s who. Who gives a shit what anyone thinks? It’s about what you want out of your life. Come build things with me, brother. And go get your girl back.”

“Working on it. Just wanted to make sure you were ready for me. I’ll be in touch soon.”

“Sounds like a plan.” I paused. “Hey, Samuel.”

“Yep.”

“If you need me, I’m here. You know that, right?”

“I’ve always known it, Myles. Your heart’s much bigger than you think it is. You’re the guy I’ve always leaned on. Best big brother I could ask for.”

My fucking chest squeezed.

“Right back at you.”

“All right, my pager is going off. I’ve got a patient. Talk soon.”

He ended the call, and I mulled over his words as a text message came through. I was disappointed that it wasn’t Montana, but I opened the text from my assistant.

Connor: Montana sent the contract back unsigned.

Me: What? Why didn’t she sign it?

Connor: She sent a counter offer.

Me: How the fuck do you send a counter offer when it isn’t a negotiation? We offered her company 50 percent ownership of the venue with a payment of $1 a month and sweat equity. It doesn’t get any sweeter than that.

Connor: Well, she doesn’t like the offer. She asked for 25 percent ownership of the venue and land and $1000 a month payment. You offended her by making the payment too low.

Me: Because we don’t need her money. It was a formality that she was contributing, but we don’t need a financial contribution. She’d be investing her time and energy.

Connor: She attached a personal note to you. Would you like me to give you the message?

Me: I can’t wait to hear it.

Connor: Thanks for the generous offer, Moneybags. But if you want a partner, then I suggest you treat me like one. And if we invest in this business, you will need to get on board with what we’re selling, or I’ll have to pass on the partnership.

Me: I offer her the deal of a lifetime and she counters with this bullshit?

Connor: I kind of love it. You found the only woman on the planet who doesn’t give a shit how rich you are, Moneybags.

Me: Call me that again and I’m canceling your bonus..

Connor: I’m guessing you two are in a fight of sorts seeing as she didn’t send this counter to you? This is saying a lot for you, considering you don’t usually stick around long enough for the first lover’s quarrel.

Me: It’s not a lover’s quarrel, asshole. She’s always pissed at me, but this time she seems a little angrier than usual. Probably for the better. I’m out of here in a week, so there’s no sense dragging it out. The demo at the inn is nearly done. I’ll be heading home when they start construction in the city.

Connor: You brought her home and exposed her to the madness of your father. And then you brought her to the office. I think you like this girl, Myles. Don’t be a stubborn ass. You must have done something to piss her off.

Me: And you just assume that I’m the one who fucked up?

Connor: Not a doubt in my mind. I know you well. And Samuel told me she put your father in his place. I like this girl.

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