I’d been propositioned by half a dozen employees. Some wanted the thrill of being with the boss, others just wanted money and power.

Lauren wanted even.

Sadly, I understood.

I didn’t know how to offer her any comfort.

God knew the man hadn’t given me any in his lifetime.

“My father was an asshole,” I said as the tears quieted, and the sniffling stopped. “He wanted everything under the sun without paying for it. He took without asking. Did without thinking. And the worst part is, he got away with most of it.

“For a long time, I thought I was exactly like him. I closed myself off from the world. Hell, I was even scared to have kids, for fear they’d end up like a warped version of him.”

Cara’s eyes met mine, and I felt the tenderness of her gaze.

“But someone recently reminded me that we remember history so that we can learn from it, grow from it, and not repeat the same mistakes. It’s time you and I stopped living in our parents’ shadows, which is exactly why I think you should leave.”

Lauren’s eyes widened. As well as Cara’s.

My hands defensively came up in front of me. “Sorry, that was worded poorly.”

I really am a walking HR disaster.

“You’re not fired; that’s not what I meant. And I’m not asking you to leave because of anything you said or did. What I’m trying to say is, maybe it’s a good time for you to cast your net and explore the world.”

Cara caught on to what I was trying to say, nodding. “You said it yourself; you’re a smart woman, Lauren. You could have had your pick of almost anywhere. And with a considerable severance package and an exceptional letter of recommendation that Roman will provide you with, you’ll have everything you need to find your dream job.”

More tears leaked out from the corners of Lauren’s eyes as Cara held her tightly.

I’d gone so long without the warmth of her body wrapped around mine that I was starting to become jealous of the crying woman.

“But I don’t want to leave this place,” she confessed. “I know it doesn’t make any sense, but you’re all I have left. My mom isn’t… well, we don’t talk much anymore. And, growing up, it was just her and me… and your dad for that short time.”