Chapter 9: CHAPTER 9

MILES

I realize I shouldn't have spoken to her that way, but any discussion involving my family stirs up deep emotions within me, leaving me raw and on edge. The fact that she bears the name Brandwith only makes it more agonizing to talk about. Countless times, I've tried to remind myself that she, too, is a victim of circumstances beyond her control.

Last night, I didn't hear from her, nor did I reach out. I was too upset, too tense, to engage with anyone—not even Jay. 

"Good morning, boss," he said as he entered the dining area, casually dressed in loose pants and shirtless.

I shifted my gaze away from the New York magazine in front of me, fixing my eyes on him without blinking. "Take a seat, Jay."