“But we have different areas, and surely our being able to work together helps our partnership chances,” she said. “I’ve never worked with her before, though.”

“She definitely views you as the competition. She thinks they’ll only make one woman partner, if any. But, hey, I’m friends with both of you, so I don’t want to get in the middle,” Tim said. “But her having defensive discovery—that’s not good for you. If she’s responsible for preparing all the client’s witnesses and pulling all their documents, she could establish a relationship with the client such that they prefer her.”

“Are you trying to cheer me up or scare me?” Her stomach was tensing.

“I’m trying to weigh the pros and cons with you.”

“I have to work with her. I’m sure we can work together.” Audrey didn’t want to share her doubts, if Tim didn’t want to “get in the middle.” So, he wasn’t on her side, he was staying neutral. She looked down, her throat feeling tight, and swallowed. The competition for partner was feeling more direct, more personal. She looked back at Tim. Was that a pitying look from him?

He leaned forward. He ran his hand through his hair, staring at the floor, seeming to consider what to say. “Audrey, Colette is determined to make partner. She’s not going to play nice in the sandbox. You’ve got to be prepared.”

“What do you mean?”

“Just be on your guard. Don’t assume you’re both on the same side.”

She made a face. “We’re on the same side: representing the client. This is a big case for our firm.”

“You’re on opposite sides competing for partner.”

“Is that how you view us too?” The office felt small, tight.

He paused. “She may be right that they’ll only make one woman partner.”

“But what am I supposed to guard against?”

“I don’t know.”

“Hunter likes teamwork. It’s not going to win her any points with him to screw me over.”

“If he realizes …” He raised an eyebrow.

“I feel like I’ve stepped into an episode of Survivor.” She bit her nail. And Winnie had told her not to be intimidated by Colette. Tim was making her out to be formidable, as the French would say. She doubted he could be dating her if he really thought this way about her.

“I may be wrong. You’re such a hard worker, but you also need to promote yourself. You can’t assume your hard effort will be recognized.” He leaned forward.

“I don’t have time to get all this work done and promote myself.” She hadn’t had the time with two cases, let alone three. Tim had only one. And Colette was volunteering for more work. No wonder they had time to wander around politicking.