I draw in a deep breath. “She’s mine. I have zero doubts.”

He shrugs. “Well, if you’re prepared to take that risk.”

“The only thing I have doubts about is you.”

Straightening up in his chair, the icy look he fixes on me would have stopped me in my tracks early on in my career. But Reece is right. It’s time to cut myself loose from Mac.

“I’ve just spoken to my lawyers, and I won’t be renewing my contract with you.”

In all the time I’ve known him, Mac’s never been angry with me, and now I know for sure why. I’m his meal ticket, and he’s trying to plant a seed that that’s how Delaney sees me.

But I know better. I have faith in what Delaney and I have.

“Josh, I know you’re pissed with me. But …”

“I’ve already found new representation. The way you treated Delaney crossed a line, Mac.”

He hesitates. “You’re really going to cut your most important business relationship for a piece of pussy?”

I fist my hands, but I won’t be taunted into punching him. I’m sure that’s exactly what he wants. “If that’s the way you’re going to refer to Delaney, then all you’re doing is confirming my decision for me. Get the fuck out, Mac. My lawyers will be in touch.”

“You’d better believe I’ll be consulting my lawyers.”

“Go for it. Just get the fuck out of my face. And you need to find a new job for Mindy too. I can’t have her working for me anymore.”

Six years ago, Mac had seemed like a god to me. But now, when he stands before me, he’s a mere mortal. But he made a big mistake thinking he could get rid of Delaney.

She’s the one woman I’ll never let go of.

Thirty-Four

Delaney

Leilani fussed when I left.

She wanted the driver to take me, but I wanted to walk.

The directions she gives me are easy to follow, and I set off. The guard lets me out the gate, and I walk down a long road that leads toward the markets. The road is lined with trees in parts, that give way to show the impressive houses on either side.

Warm sun on my face makes me smile. While the weather is changing back home, it’s nothing like this. Despite what happened this morning, I’m glad I came.

Josh and I will survive this. I know it. But he needs time to process what I’ve told him, and I need some fresh air after that plane trip and then dealing with Mac.

Mac’s bullshit won’t tear us apart.

Leilani said the walk would be about half an hour, and the sun makes me glad I lathered myself in sunscreen before I left.