Page 9 of The Dis-Graced
Fuck him.
Usually, at this time, I’d be getting on my phone, checking emails, pulling up the latest headlines, but that is now something I dread with every fiber of my being as it’s like walking through a landmine of criticism. It’s not just the headlines, but the constant texts and messages I receive. I’ve shut down my social media platforms, but there’s no avoiding my email, and I can’t change my number because I can’t afford to lose any important connections.
The worst part is now the tabloids have been digging up my old assignments and openly questioning how I was able to land some of my past interviews. The people I’ve worked are denying that they’ve slept with me, thankfully, but they’re not exactly coming to my aid. They’re clearly trying to distance themselves from me and even ones I’ve got along well with are claiming they no longer have any association with me.
Ouch!
The one solace my phone actually gives me is the ability to communicate with Steph, the only friend in my circle that hasn’t deserted me. She’s been on assignment in Italy doing a piece on art from the Renaissance era, and, in her own words, doing a stallion roundup, so we haven’t been able to chat.
Yep, the only friend that hasn’t abandoned me is a horndog. Go figure.
My phone vibrates, forcing me to interact with it, and I pull it off my nightstand to see an incoming call from Luke, and I scramble to hit the answer button.
Luke was the first person I called when the story broke, even before Stephanie. It wasn’t so much that we were close, because we’re not, but he’s a smart man with a good head on his shoulders. If anyone could help me weather the storm, it’d be him.
I was hysterical, for so many reasons. There was the humiliation, then the whole losing the love of my life, and finally, realizing my career was essentially over. It was the first time I’ve ever asked Luke for help in my entire life. He responded exactly how I needed him to, telling me he’d do whatever he could to help me land an assignment. And he followed through on his promise, landing me a project working with Drake Dallanger.
Take a breath. Put on your mask. Greet him cheerfully.
Grace:Hey!
I try to make my voice sound as cheerful as possible to hide my pain. It hasn’t been easy handling the judgment and criticism, but knowing that I’ve disappointed my brother is the worst of this whole situation. Especially after he and Amanda just had their first baby. I feel like I sucked a part of his joy away.
Of course, my parents just kind of figured that sleeping for assignments was what I did. They seriously think I screwed my way into a career in journalism. I must admit, it’s far easier to bear their disappointment, though I can’t exactly say they’re disappointed.
Luke:How are you liking the city?
Grace:Is that some kind of joke? You know Drake has me on lockdown. I haven’t left the apartment in three days, and I’m going stir crazy.
Luke:Has it been that long? I’m sorry. My days and nights are screwed up with this new crib potato. I should have called sooner.
Grace:Crib potato? Did you just call my niece a crib potato?
Luke:::laughs:: That’s what Amanda and I have been calling her.
Grace:Why can’t you call her monkey or princess, or any of the other normal pet names people call their children.
Luke:Well, she just kind of lays there like a lumpy potato.
Grace:Oh-my-GOD—you guys are obviously sleep deprived. Why don’t you drop her off at my apartment today and catch up on some sleep with Amanda?
I’m not stupid enough to think that Amanda would ever allow Annabelle to be dropped off with me. She’s a nice enough woman, but she’s from an affluent family, and I can’t help but feel judged in her presence. Besides, she’s probably finalizing a nanny, and soon they’ll both be getting the sleep they need.
Luke:As much as I’d LOVE to take you up on your generous offer, your presence is needed.
My heart sinks to the pit of my stomach. This is supposed to be good news, but if it is, then why does it feel very, very bad?
Grace:Great, I’m excited.
The lie comes out easier than I expect, probably because I don’t want Luke to think I’m unappreciative of his efforts. Still, anyone who knows me would pick up on my distress, and Lucas clearly knows me.
Luke:You don’t sound excited.
Grace:Oh, it’s just that I still don’t know what I’m working on.
Luke:Get dressed. Your patience will be rewarded.
Chapter 4
