‘I’m talking about everyone.’ He rubs his eyes. ‘It’s going to turn into a land grab around here, and I’m not sure where people like us will end up. Even though we get paid shit, we’re still considered expensive.’

‘You’re the one having secret meetings with management,’ Oli says stiffly. ‘I just want to keep my head down and do my job. I’m not interested in the politics.’

‘Jesus, I’m not—’ He puffs out his cheeks and walks in a frustrated semicircle. ‘Look, you should consider what I’m saying. Things are different for you now, right? Dean will support you. Having a safety net will allow us a few months to find our feet, try a few things and work out the type of content we want to focus on.’

Heat floods her face. ‘That’s a bullshit thing to say. You have no idea what my personal circumstances are.’

His eyes dart to the Audi then back to her. ‘I’m just being practical. I’ve spoken to Angela. We have some money put aside that we can fall back on for a while. I just think you and I have a chance to say up yours to the fat cats and take a crack at creating something really special before we get swept up in a situation neither of us wants to be a part of—or before we’re screwed over.’

Charisma radiates off him, and Oli feels herself relenting. But then doubt flickers in her core. She’s seen him do this a thousand times: coaxing out a connection and getting the outcome he wants. She has a sinking feeling that she’s being played. Tested. That if she articulates her lack of commitment to the paper, it will somehow be used against her.

‘I appreciate the heads-up, TJ, but I’m sure everything will be fine. I’m not worried—it’s business as usual for me. I’ve got a great feature to write, and I’m determined to make this podcast as good as it can be.’

His expression loses some of its easy charm. ‘We should stay tight, is all I’m saying. I’m sorry if this isn’t coming out right.’

She gets into the car. ‘I’m not going behind your back, if that’s what you’re worried about. I can assure you that no one is having secret meetings with me.’

‘Cool, Oli, I get it,’ TJ says, backing away in defeat. ‘Just remember you can’t opt out of the politics. At some point you’re not going to have a choice.’

‘I’ll talk to you later, okay?’ She starts the car. Stares straight ahead.