Part 6: The Reality of the Situation
Gavin took a small step toward me.
“Whatever personal feelings you still have about me, you cannot let them influence Mercer Capital’s business decision,” he demanded quietly.
I met his frantic eyes steadily.
“My personal feelings have not influenced anything,” I said truthfully.
“Then you will support the investment deal?” he asked, hope flashing in his eyes.
“No, I will not,” I replied directly.
Brenda inhaled sharply at my answer.
Gavin’s jaw tightened in anger.
“Why?” he demanded.
I glanced toward little Chloe, who was watching us curiously.
Douglas understood immediately and gently led Chloe toward the dessert table across the room.
When they were safely out of earshot, I gave Gavin my final answer.
“Because your numbers do not support the glowing story you have been telling investors,” I said quietly.
The remaining color drained from Gavin’s face entirely.
“I do not know what you are talking about,” he stuttered.
“Then your legal counsel can explain it to you in detail,” I suggested smoothly.
“Nora, please,” he pleaded under his breath.
“Not tonight, Gavin,” I said firmly.
I turned away from him.
He caught himself just before reaching out to grab my arm in public.
“Are you trying to ruin my life because of what happened with Brenda?” he hissed softly.
I looked back at him one last time.
That pathetic question told me how little he had actually changed over five years.
He still believed every action in the world revolved around him.
“Gavin, I stopped making decisions about my life based on you many years ago,” I said softly.
