“So...you’re my bodyguard and my tutor?”

“In a way. So, this one–write this down–is the balance sheet. This details assets, liability and equity so you can understand the financial health of Montgomery Group.”

Scribbling away, I was determined to truly learn the information. My mother left this to me, and I wanted to make sure her work didn’t go to waste. An entire company would be at my mercy and, as a result, employees who relied on the company to feed and clothe their families. It was a big responsibility to hold up when I was barely in my twenties and it was not the ideal situation. Everyone was doing their best.

My phone rang and I was oddly happy it was Evans taking me away from my brain turning into soup. “Hello, Evans. Yes, I am learning and reviewing and yes, I will comply with your demands.”

A pause filled the receiver before he responded. “Good to hear. We will be tackling your PR nightmare here, but you will need media training. Expect someone by to get you started and rely on James for now for guidance. He is your encyclopedia.” He paused again, leaving me nervous about what came next. “Do I need to tell you the obvious regarding the boy, or will you make good choices until you are in the boardroom this weekend?”

“When will I be needed?” I sighed.

“Sunday. Expect your Sundays to be booked from here on out. I am pleased to hear of your steps forward despite this dramatic scenario.” The line went dead.

“Fuck you too.”

James pursed his lips. “Are we okay to continue?”

“I need a snack first.”

Food wasn’t an option because as soon as I made it to the living room, someone knocked on the front door. I ripped it open, my patience for the day wearing thin. So much so that I was surprised I didn’t rip the door off its hinges.

Of course it was Garrett at my house. Awesome. He stood there, shocked that I was so aggressive. “Bad time?”

“Garrett,” I sighed. “Unfortunately, you cannot be here and right now, it’s best that we don’t speak to each other.” I caught James out of the corner of my eye entering the living room, back in bodyguard mode. “My company is having a PR nightmare. I have a lot of employees to think about right now.” I shooed him. “Please, maybe another time, but not right now.”

James was there behind me, ready for anything.

Garrett looked angry. His fists balled up and his jaw clenched. “Fine. I will have our much needed talk with you. You can’t say no forever and you need to hear what I have to say.”

My bodyguard stepped into his view and crossed his arms, silently telling him to get lost or get hurt. He got the hint because he went off, stomping through my front yard.