Page 16 of Marry Lies
“We’ve had several offers already, and we’re still sorting through everything,” the third man says, humoring us a bit more than the others. “If it weren’t for the history behind your name, it might be something we’d consider more readily.”
I sit up, jaw tight, and Chase gives me a warning look.
“Of course. And may I ask what kind of reputation youarelooking for? I know what you don’t want, but it may be easier to present our case if I know what you are looking for. Maybe we can surprise you.”
Wendy gives me a gentle smile. “Well, we’d love to work with someone who has notoriety in the nonprofit sector. A philanthropist. Someone with the backing of Barbara Streisand or Lance Armstrong. Estelle Deveraux is on our board, for example, and she’s wonderful,” she finishes. “But everyone knows that.”
The pen I was fumbling with drops with a heavy thud on the legal pad in front of me.
“Estelle Deveraux?” I ask tentatively.
The man—I believe his name is Garret—nods. “Yes. She’s in California this week helping us with a few press events.”
Wheels begin to spin in my mind. Wheels thatshould notbe spinning. And maybe it’s because we’ve had three cancellations today, or perhaps it’s the insinuation that, yet again, our family name is fucked, but an idea forms in my mind.
What-if I can kill two birds with one stone?
The idea is insane. I can’t believe I’m about to lie to this extent. I know I can be deceptive and cynical, but this is an entirely different ball game.
However…I have no other choice. We need these clients. I need for people to start taking me seriously, and working with a non-profit of this size would be huge for our image.
It could make or break the next couple of months for us.
The scheming part of my brain has already made up his mind by the time I open my mouth.
“I see. Well, Estelle Deveraux can be quite captivating,” I add, keeping my expression neutral.
Garret narrows his eyes. “You know her personally?”
Chase’s eyes are on me when I nod, not bothering to hide the genuine smile that breaks out on my face. “I do. She’s my fiancée.”
I can practically see the realization hit them. Garret looks over at the other man before turning to Wendy, who is watching me with something akin to admiration.
Their countenance changes completely. Before, their expressions were closed off. But right now, I can practicallyfeeltheir new opinions clicking into place. The looks they share—what it would mean to do business with Estelle’s future husband…
I should hate myself for lying. Really, I should. And I already know Chase is going to reprimand me like no other. But, I don’t care.
It feelsfuckingincredible to be wanted.
“I had no idea Stella was engaged,” she says slowly, her smile growing. “How wonderful. It seems I owe you a belated congratulations.”
I smile and nod my head. “Thank you. It’s a very recent development, and we’re excited.”
When I lean back in my chair, I once again feel the weight of Chase’s stare.
“I know I may be out of line speaking for all of us, but…” Wendy trails off. “We absolutely adore Stella, and anyone associated with the Deveraux family is practically family to us.”
That’s all it takes.
After a few minutes of pleasantries, they sign the contract. Wendy asks about Estelle, the wedding, the proposal…it’s scary how easily the lies keep coming to me.
Maybe I’m more like my father than I think.
That thought makes my stomach churn.
“It was spur-of-the-moment,” I tell them as I walk them to the elevators. “We had lunch in Paris last week, and the next thing I knew, I was down on one knee.”
Wendy swoons. “Paris! How romantic. Have you set a date yet?”
