Chapter 9 - THE KISS THEY COULDN'T AFFORD
Lucian met Harper at a public café two days later.
She had agreed only after confirming that the meeting would not interfere with any investigative restrictions.
He looked tired.
The familiar smile was gone.
Harper sat opposite him.
“Explain the payments.”
Lucian nodded.
“Harbor Crest used several of my warehouses.”
“For what?”
“Storage contracts.”
“Legitimate?”
“Some.”
Harper stared.
He continued.
“When I discovered irregularities, I began documenting them.”
“Why didn't you report them?”
Lucian looked down.
“Because I was involved in things I wasn't proud of.”
Harper's expression hardened.
“That's not an answer.”
He nodded.
“No.”
He took a breath.
“I was afraid of what the investigation would uncover about me.”
Harper looked away.
Lucian continued.
“I can't change that.”
He met her eyes.
“But I can stop hiding.”
For several seconds, neither spoke.
Then Harper asked, “Are you willing to cooperate?”
“Yes.”
“Fully?”
He hesitated.
Then nodded.
“Yes.”
Harper studied him.
She wanted to believe him.
But wanting wasn't enough.
She stood.
“Then do it.”
Lucian rose.
“Harper.”
She turned.
He stepped closer.
Stopped.
Waiting.
For a moment, she wanted to close the distance.
Instead, she shook her head.
“Not yet.”
Lucian nodded.
“I understand.”
May you like
She walked away.
And hated how much it hurt.
