Silver Lining by Aleatha Romig

Author:Aleatha Romig [Romig, Aleatha]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Romig Works

Chapter Twenty-Two

CJ

I couldn’t believe Lena was here, yet my senses told me this was real. Not only the sight of her and the sound of her voice, but also the scent of her perfume. Listening to her speak about Architech—our work—was surreal. Her knowledge and expertise were on full display. While I thought the woman I’d met in Cancún was beautiful and enticing, now, I watched as that same person blossomed into more. Despite Lena’s savvy, every now and then, her beautiful brown eyes would come my way, showing me a glimpse of the woman who let her guard down.

The business world beyond Architech was a mystery to Colton and me. Once we started getting offers for our technology, we knew we were unprepared for the future. That lack of knowledge was why we chose Venus. Jeremy promised a business model taking Architech beyond our wildest expectations.

Lena was the knowledge behind the model. Once we all sat, I’d quickly typed her full name into an internet search. There was no way to read it all. A few headlines was all it took to show me a glimpse of her success.

Listening and watching, I was in awe of her poise and understanding.

It was more than Lena’s confident attitude. Her appearance was different. She was still beautiful, but superficial in a way. Lena didn’t need the makeup she was wearing or the power clothes. Maybe to be this person, the one she said she wasn’t in Cancún, she did.

“I think we’re ready,” Jeremy said, standing and extending his hand to Colton and then to me. “Chandler, it would be reassuring to your employees if we could tell them definitively that you will remain.”

“It’s what I’ve wanted since the sale was finalized.” With my hand still shaking Jeremy’s, I stopped and turned to Lena. “I know we’re on a time crunch, but could I talk to you…alone?”

“We don’t have time,” she said matter-of-factly. “We have an over three-hour flight.”

“Lena.” I said her name with all the emotion I could muster.

The chocolate stare softened, bringing back my Lena, the lioness.

She looked at her watch and nodded. “Two minutes.”

“Do you want me to wait for you?” Jeremy asked Lena.

“No, go ahead. Kelsey and Adam will stay.”

Of course, they will.

As Colton and Jeremy filed from the room and Lena stood, I scanned this new version of the woman I had gotten to know. From her styled hair, white blouse, and all the way to her dark blue skirt and jacket, I saw the powerhouse she was. I knew every inch of what the clothes covered, and yet seeing her like this was a glimpse at the real-life Lena Montgomery. Silence prevailed as I held my tongue, waiting until the door closed and we were alone. Finally, I spoke, “Lena, talk to me.”

Lena’s head tilted to the side. “CJ, I only have one request.”

“You blocked my number.”

She straightened her neck and shoulders. “I implore you, don’t tell anyone that we…what happened. You have no idea how difficult it is to be taken seriously in this world when you’re a woman.

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