SEVENTEEN - DEREK

Derek Exactly one week after David had presented me with his ultimatum, Friday had arrived. I couldn't bring myself to meet him at that dingy, outdated diner; it felt beneath me, like I was conceding to his demands. Instead, that morning, I emailed David and invited him to join me for brunch at the Love House. I knew he'd feel out of place there ever since I had dismissed him from the firm. If he was going to try to blackmail me, he would feel just as uncomfortable as I could make him. To ease my nerves as I waited, I ordered a Bloody Mary and a cup of coffee. I was clear on what needed to be done. Even in the face of such a dire situation, I was determined to ensure Skye's happiness and well-being above all else. When David entered, I glanced up and motioned for him to join me at the table. He looked around warily, uncertain of who might be watching. Luckily for him, most people were at work on a Friday morning rather than lounging at the Love House, mingling with someone like him. He