“There’s no ‘closer’ here,” Leanne said. “I’ll save you some time in offering random bennies to sweeten the pot. I’m done working for you because I’m planning to run for city council, and I need the time for my campaign.”

“You have family money to fall back on? That doesn’t pay a living wage,” Anderson said, like he was telling her anything she didn’t already know.

“I’m aware. I’ll work freelance in the interim and look for a suitable position once the election is over.”

Mayor Anderson smirked when she said “suitable position.” Damn I hate this asshole. Just one hex. He would never know it’s not a natural infection.

“You’re going after Dan Rutherford,” the mayor said then.

In all honesty, it surprised Leanne that he recalled where she lived well enough to place her in the correct district. She froze. “Yes, that’s why I’m resigning.”

Meaning she didn’t want Mayor Anderson poking around in her business, calling it “good” because she worked for him, and then passing on his insights to Rutherford. It would be an uphill battle as it was, without fighting the mayor and all his cronies at the same time. No, the way she had the battle planned, it would happen in stages, and it wasn’t time to take on Tom Anderson.

She had a list, she’d checked it twice, and Dan Rutherford was the first name on it.

No question whether he’s naughty or nice.

Suddenly, Anderson’s manner became jovial, and he sat forward in his seat. “Fair enough. If I can’t talk you out of this, then I’ll congratulate you on deciding to take such a momentous step. You’re a smart, capable woman. Dan will have his work cut out for him.”

Leanne could tell from his half smile that Anderson didn’t think she had a chance in hell of pulling this off. Her mouth compressed before she blurted something she’d regret. “Do you want to choose my successor? If you decide before my notice is up, I’ll do my best to prepare them and hand all the work over in the most efficient manner possible.”

“I’ll leave that up to you,” the mayor said.

Leanne blinked. “You want me to hire my own replacement?”

“That would be ideal. You know the job, as well as my expectations. Hopefully, it won’t prove too much of a challenge.”

In addition to my actual work. She couldn’t believe he was handing off this responsibility as well. Then again, it was par for the course, and maybe it was the final obstacle he could chuck in her path, all in solidarity with his deep-pocketed pal, Dan. But sure, whatever. This is the last time you get to screw me over, Mayor Asshat.

“I’ll get right on it.”