Once again, I'm in the elevator on my way to the penthouse with Alex at my side. Tension is thick, and my breathing ramps the closer we get to the top. Alex called Jack from the car and let him know we need to meet with him.
The doors slide open, and Sarah peers at us. "Good morning, Mr. Stone, Kylie. Mr. Daniels is waiting for you in his office. Can I get coffee for either of you?"
"No, thank you," Alex responds politely.
I shake my head and step around the reception desk. "We'll head there now, Sarah. Thanks."
Jack's corner office is about four times larger than mine, with a spectacular view of the bay, and is the only one in the building that has built-in, floor-to-ceiling bookcases instead of interior glass walls.
Jack shakes Alex's hand, and he gives me a fatherly peck on the cheek. Alex and I sit on the couch as Jack lowers into one of the chairs, facing us.
"What can I do for you both?" He rests his elbows on the arms of the chair, his fingertips forming a steeple just below his chin.
I take a deep breath. I wish to God I didn't have to do this. I explain John's abuse—past and present—as unemotionally as possible.
Various shades of red color Jack's face until it's almost purple. His lips are pressed together so tightly they're a ghostly white.
Alex is no better. Every muscle in his body stiffens, and his knuckles are white from the death grip on his knees. Knowing Alex and his need to protect me, I’m sure it’s just as difficult for him to hear all of this for a second time. And I know he's blaming himself for not adequately protecting me.
He has protected me, though, and probably saved my life. If John had gotten me alone after he’d drugged me, he would've beaten and tortured me and left me for dead, just as he had threatened so many times.
I take a deep breath and reach for Alex's hand without looking at him. I know I'll lose the tenuous hold I have on my emotions if I see the hurt and pain in his eyes.
Jack is looking straight past me, out the windows. The room is deathly silent. I wait for a reaction, and he finally blinks a couple of times and runs his hands over his face before turning his gaze on me.
"John beat you so badly you have scars?"
I swallow harshly and steady my nerves. John can't hurt me anymore. I’m stronger now. "Yes."
"Why didn't you come to me, Kylie? I would've helped you."
The hurt in Jack's voice and the pain and caring in his eyes nearly bring me to tears. After everything he's done for me, he didn't deserve to find out this way.
I move around to the empty chair next to him and take hold of his hand. This man is the closest thing I've ever had to a devoted, supportive father, and I feel like I've failed him.
"I'm sorry, Jack. I wish I could've told you. It wasn't because I didn't want to. Please believe me. I went into shock that night, and I locked it all away. I never talked about it with anyone. I just tried to pretend it never happened. The first time I opened up about it was last week."
"What happened to bring it out now?"
"John's been lashing out since I started dating Alex." I quickly try to gauge his reaction to the confirmation that I'm in a romantic relationship with not only our top client at the firm but also a close family friend. "John threatened me, assaulted me at the gala, broke into my home, and hit me. On Friday, I think he drugged me, but I have no actual proof of it."
Jack rubs his chin. "Kylie, why haven't you reported any of this—the recent events?"
"Jack, you know my career is everything to me. I was scared John would follow through on his threats to take it all away. And I've been so ashamed."
Jack releases an exasperated breath.
"I know it's hard to understand, but I just wanted it all to go away."
"Well, you'll get your wish, at least in part. This ends today, okay? Nothing will happen to your career. I won't let it."
"Thanks, Jack."
We all stand, and Jack gives me a big hug before glancing at Alex, who moves in behind me and places his hand on my lower back. Jack's gaze switches from loving father to overprotective parent in the blink of an eye.
"I'm trusting you with my girl, Alex. She's very dear to Annabelle and me, and I expect you to treat her properly."
My heart melts. A silly grin crosses my face.
Alex smiles and extends his hand. "I intend to, Jack. You have my word. There is nothing more important to me than making sure she's taken care of. She's very special to me, as well."
A lump forms in my throat, and I look down, hoping neither of them has noticed the intense flush in my cheeks. It's a little overwhelming to have this much love and attention directed at me. It feels wonderful and new but also daunting. I'm not sure if I want to wrap my arms around them in a group hug or run from the room and get some air. After a lifetime of people leaving me and taking all their love with them, I'm not used to the outpouring.
"All right, back to work." Jack walks with Alex and me down the hall and stops at the reception desk to speak to Sarah.
I walk behind my desk and turn on my computer. Alex checks his watch and grimaces. Dealing with my career and personal issues means he's neglecting his business.
He glances at me. "You'll be all right here?"
"Yeah, I'm good."
He walks behind my desk and grabs my waist. "Okay. I need to get to this meeting. I'll check on you later." He kisses me and runs his fingers through my hair.
The rumor mill will be buzzing with the news that Alex and I are still together. Maybe my odds will improve in the office pool.
But what worries me right now—how is John going to react to the news, and how do I protect myself and Alex from the fallout?