Game On (Aeon Book 1)

by Wendy Smith

  This time, the laugh’s on me.

  They made a meme of me.

  They made a meme of me.

  I shriek with laughter, and I’m not sure whether to be touched or insulted.

  It’s not even an official company photo. It’s a photo of me announcing something at a convention. I’m dressed in a suit. At the top of the image it says:

  Didn’t want to take three days off.

  And at the bottom, it reads:

  Three weeks later? Missing in action.

  “You guys think you’re so funny,” I mutter.

  Worst employees ever.

  I can’t help but smile. At least it shows they’ve noticed my absence. And that they care. Has it really been three weeks already?

  “Everything okay, sweetheart?” Mom pokes her head into the living room.

  “Fine. Just my employees making fun of me.”

  She smiles. “From what you’ve said, it’s like you’ve got a little family of your own there.”

  I nod. “They really are like family. We’ve all been together for so long. It’s that kind of relationship.”

  There’s another email with a notification about a staff meeting. I knew this was coming up—we usually have a full one every month, and this time I’ll be logging into the video conference digitally.

  I make a mental note again to do something about Mom and Dad’s Internet. It’s useable, but nothing fancy, and if I’m going to be here more often, then I’ll need something better than this.

  What’s Brad’s Internet like?

  I double click the icon to load up the software and dial in to the meeting.

  When it connects, I smile. I’m well aware that my face is on the big screen in the boardroom, and it takes a second for the link to pop up the image of my staff looking at me.

  “Morning, everybody.” I wave. “I’m obviously still away, so Miranda will take the meeting this morning.”

  Miranda launches into our regular agenda, asking for developments and updates from each team leader.

  When she’s finished, I take over.

  “Some of you will have seen the news items about the kids playing the Devil’s Tribute beta. It was a huge success with them. I think we’ve got another big hit on our hands, and I just wanted to say how proud I am of all of you.”

  “Is it true you’re thinking about selling the company?” Claire, my administration manager, asks. I hate that she has to. If anyone would be involved in selling the company, it’d be her. And if she thinks I’m keeping secrets, so do the others.

  “No. It’s true that Darryn Phillips really wants to buy the company, but I’ve told him repeatedly that it’s not for sale. He’s just really slow to get the message. Mollab is my baby. Aeon is my platform.”

  She nods. “With you being away, we wondered.”

  “I’m just dealing with some personal stuff right now. I’m still around if you need me, but I just ask that you go to Miranda in the first instance because she usually has all the answers.”

  “When will you be back?”

  I swallow. “I’m not sure yet, but I’m just at the other end of the phone. And I have Internet, even if it’s like living in the nineties.”

  Laughter crackles from the speakers and I smile.

  “I think that’s all for today. Lunch has arrived and is in the kitchen if you’d like to grab some,” Miranda says.

  The admin staff wave as they leave, and I’m left with my developers and Miranda. We usually have a catch-up after the main meeting, and I’m glad for it. I have something to thank them for.

  “By the way, I got the email, Tom.”

  “What email?” He puts his hand to his heart and feigns concern.

  “The meme. Very funny guys.”

  “We thought you might like it,” Tom says.

  “It was great.”

  “What’s keeping you there?” Mark asks. “Are you okay?”

  “I’m fine.” My senses reel. Brad seems to appear out of nowhere, wraps his arms around me from behind, and nuzzles my neck.

  “Oh.” Mark laughs. “You’re definitely fine, then.”

  “Shit. Am I interrupting?” Brad murmurs in my ear.

  My cheeks heat up, and I laugh. “This is my programming team. Guys, this is Brad.”

  “I guess this is the reason you’re three weeks’ late for work.” Tom laughs.

  “Quit it. Talk to you later.”

  I shut the lid to my laptop and spin around. “What are you doing here?”

  “First of all, I’m sorry. If I’d known you were on a work thing, I wouldn’t have made that entrance.”

  I laugh. “They’ll cope. So will I. Luckily you weren’t here a few minutes earlier to meet all my staff.”

  He grins. “Your mom let me in. I just stopped by to see how you were. You know, after finding that letter at Lane’s.”

  I nod. “I’m okay. Still a bit rattled, but I’ll be fine.”

  “I’m glad. I wanted to see you. Mom has Grace for the night on Friday, and I wondered if you’d come and spend some time with me.” He links his fingers with mine, and brings my hand up to his lips.

  “I’d like that.”

  “I figured we could spend the whole night together if you wanted. We don’t have to sleep in the same bed.” His lips graze the tips of my fingers.

  As if sleeping in separate beds is ever going to happen.

  “I’d like to accept your invitation, Mr. Matheson.” I smile. “Let’s see how things go.”

  “Bradley, it’s so good to see you.” Dad appears in the doorway. He and Brad always got on well.

  Brad looks up and grins. “How are you, Mr. Beckham?”

  Dad beams. “I’m well. Please, call me John. You’re not exactly a boy anymore.”

  Brad nods. “John it is.”

  “Do you want a coffee, son? I’m just about to make one.”

  Brad shakes his head. “Thanks for the offer, but I’m on my way to work. Just wanted to stop in to see Molly.”

  “Well, like I said, it’s good to see you around here. Don’t be a stranger when Molly goes home. We’d love you and your girl to visit.”

  Brad stiffens when Dad mentions me going home. We haven’t talked about what will happen then. It feels so far in advance and yet so soon, even though I have no idea when I’ll be leaving town. I haven’t felt the urge to leave.

  “I’d like that too.” Brad smiles. “Walk me to my truck?”

  I nod, rising from the table, my hand still in his.

  The warmth of the sun hits me as I step out the back door. I need to be outside more instead of stuck behind a computer.

  I lean on him as we approach the truck.

  “I’ll bring Grace around to see your parents soon.”

  I squeeze his hand. “They’ll love it. You know I’m staying for a while longer, right?”

  He nods. “Yeah, but you’ll go home eventually. We both know it.”

  “Does that mean you’re withdrawing your invitation for Friday night?”

  Brad’s eyes search mine. “Never. I want you in my life. Whatever form that takes.” He drops his gaze. “I know there are a ton of things we need to work out.”

  I nod. “There are. I’m glad it’s not scaring you off.”

  “You got away from me once, Molly Beckham. Don’t think I’ll make the same mistake twice.”

  Before I can catch a breath, his warm lips are on mine. His kiss is tender, maybe even loving. It leaves me wanting and a little flustered.

  “Brad,” I whisper.

  “Talk to you soon.” He presses a kiss just below my ear, and my eyes roll. That’s the spot, and he knows it.

  “You’re a tease.” I laugh.

  “I just want you to see how good things between us can be.” He lets go of my hand and pulls open the door to this truck.

  “I know how good things can be.” I lick my lips. “And I want them to be that way again.”

  He climbs in the truck, gets i
n his seat, and closes the door behind him. “We’re on the same page. Let’s stay that way.”

  I can’t help but grin as he gives me a nod, starts the truck, and backs down the driveway. I’m like that love-crazed teenager I was with him all those years ago, and I heave a big sigh as he pulls out and into the street.

  With a wave, he’s gone, and for a moment, I watch him drive away.

  Being with him leaves my heart full.

  I’m not sure how I can leave town this time.

  17

  Brad

  I never dreamed that Molly and I could be together again. I love her.

  I can’t help it.

  She and I were always two sides of the same coin. Meant to be together. At odds at times, but always soul mates.

  When she left, my heart was ripped out. Now she’s back, that same heart beats only for her.

  Maybe I shouldn’t fall again so fast, but then again, I never really fell out of love with her. I just fell in love with Lane too.

  The letter Lane left hit me hard. She knew Molly would come back.

  The loss of her still tears me apart in its unfairness. But I’m not sure I could have moved on when she was alive, even with our divorce.

  Now, I have hope. And not just for me, but for Grace.

  I don’t expect Molly to pick up where Lane left off, but the growing relationship between Molly and Grace makes me happy. Part of me, however, is still waiting for the axe to fall.

  Maybe I should have more faith.

  “As of today, we’ve reached the halfway stage of the project,” Bridget says as she walks through the office, clipboard in hand. “Didn’t you say we should go for drinks when that happened?”

  I grin. This is the biggest construction we’ve ever undertaken in Nettle Downs. It’s the new place to retire, and these units are being sold as fast as we’re building them. “I believe I did.”

  “I’ll get numbers and call Jackson to let him know we’re coming.” Becky smiles.

  “Make sure you include Grace in that.”

  “And Molly …?”

  I shake my head. “She’s on some video conference this evening.”

  Becky rubs my shoulder. “It’s awesome she’s still here. Must be love.”

  I shrug. “Maybe.”

  “So, drinks at Jackson’s after work. I’ll spread the word.” Bridget turns and leaves the office.

  “I love we’re at the halfway stage. It’s nice to be ahead of schedule,” I say.

  Becky nods. “Anyway, boss. I need to get back to work, but Stu and I will definitely be there. I’ll get that booking done.”

  My heart’s light as I step out and onto the building site. Everything seems to be going my way right now.

  When Jackson’s Bar still belonged to Jackson’s dad, it was rough, and not a place for children. We weren’t allowed in there, which only made it more tempting to try and sneak into when we grew older.

  Once Jackson got his hands on it, he opened it up and expanded it to include a restaurant. Grace loves eating here. It’s a rare treat, but Jackson has both a children’s menu, and huge arms for her to climb up like a monkey.

  When we go for work drinks, it’s here. It’s a relief not to have to worry about a babysitter for Grace. Jackson spoils the shit out of her, and she ends up with a huge plate of fish bites and fries, and the biggest chocolate milkshake I’ve ever seen.

  “Thanks, dude,” I say as he puts the food down. We got the largest table in the place and filled it. Grace is sitting on the opposite side to me. She sat next to me until Bridget arrived, and then abandoned all pretense of wanting to hang out with her father.

  “You’re welcome.” He lowers his voice and leans in. “How’s she doing?”

  I nod. “Okay.”

  “And you?”

  I smile. “We’re both doing alright. It’s not easy. I think that clearing out Lane’s house will take months at the rate we’re going, but we’ll get there.”

  “If you ever need help with anything, just call. I’m happy to babysit, or help you throw shit out when you can’t. I remember what it was like when Dad died. Sentimentality gets in the way a lot.”

  “It does. I appreciate the offer.”

  “You have the whole town behind you, Brad.” He grips my shoulder. “It’s good to see you and Grace out for dinner. Come ’round more often.”

  “I will. Thanks.”

  Looking up, I smile as Stu and Becky approach. I love these two. Stu was one of those guys in high school who had a ton of female friends, but rarely had a girlfriend. When Becky arrived in town, it was love at first sight.

  I couldn’t run my business without either of them, and they’re such lovely people.

  Becky sits on the other side of Grace, while Stu walks around and sits next to me.

  “Where did you guys get to?” I ask.

  Stu gives me a sheepish smile. “Well, Becky’s got this kit that tells her when she’s ovulating, and …”

  “I don’t need any more details than that.” I chuckle.

  “I’ll get you a beer, Stu,” Jackson says.

  “Thanks.”

  “Becky?”

  Becky nods. “Just a lemonade, thanks, Jackson.”

  “You got it.”

  He walks away, and I take a look around the table. Most of the team made it down here, and the bill will be a bit crazy, but I like to celebrate the great work they all do. It’s the least I can manage for the effort they put in.

  “So, how’s Molly?” Stu asks.

  I nod. “Yeah, she’s good. Maybe I should have invited her down here in case her video conference finishes early.”

  “It’s not too late to call her.” He nudges my arm.

  I shrug. “I don’t want to push her too hard. You know? We have plans for Friday night.”

  “I’m kinda surprised she’s still in town. You must be worth it.”

  I lean my head on his shoulder. “I really am.”

  He chuckles, pushing me away. “I hope you two work out this time,” he says quietly.

  Letting out a long breath, I smile. “I’m trying not to count my chickens. But it’s just so good to have her back in my life. She’s good for Grace too.”

  “I’m sure she is. It’s good to see Grace doing okay. She’s chatting up a storm with Bridget and Becky over there.”

  I look over at my daughter. Stu’s right.

  Grace is laughing, and I love seeing it. I worried so much that she’d struggle more than she has, and while there have been times when it’s not been easy, having the support of friends and family has made all the difference.

  “Did you want something to eat?” Jackson rounds the table again and asks.

  “The usual.” I grin.

  “Prime rib, medium rare, it is. Stu?”

  Stu nods toward me. “Same as him. He’s paying.”

  I chuckle as Jackson walks around the table and takes orders

  When Stu disappears to go to the bathroom, Bridget stands and walks around the table, taking his seat.

  “Enjoying yourself?” I ask.

  “Grace is keeping us entertained.”

  “I’m sure she is.” I take a sip of my beer.

  “So, I was thinking …”

  “About?”

  “I wondered if you and Grace were doing anything on Friday night. I thought I might come over and cook dinner for you. “

  I hesitate. “Look, I really appreciate your offer, but I have plans on Friday. I’m seeing someone now.”

  “Molly? Doesn’t she live in California?”

  I nod. “She does. Right now, at least.”

  Her mouth forms an almost straight line. I knew this could turn into an issue, and I never addressed it. Instead, I focused on her work abilities and ignored that she liked me. Now I’ve had to let her down and risk losing her at work.

  “But Lane …”

  “I loved Lane. I worshipped the ground my wife walked on, and we were happy. But since the
divorce, no one’s woken up my feelings again. Until Molly. I’m not going to discuss this with you any further, as it’s really none of your business.”

  She gulps, her nostrils flaring as she breathes hard. I’m not sure if it’s because she’s angry or upset, but I can’t comfort her and send her mixed messages. “I can’t believe you’d take her back. Not after she—”

  “You have no idea what went on. She makes me and Grace happy, and that’s it as far as I’m concerned.”

  Bridget blinks a bunch of times.

  “I’m sorry, Bridget. I’m not interested in you in that way, and I apologize if I ever did anything to make you think I was.”

  She shakes her head. “No, you never did.”

  I pause for a moment. “We’re good, right? The last thing I want is to lose your respect. For what it’s worth, I have a ton for you.”

  “We’re good.” She gives me a small smile. “Jackson’s on his way with food, so I’ll go and sit back with Grace.”

  I nod.

  “I caught about half of that. You handled it well.” Stu pats me on the back as he takes his seat back

  “Did I? Why do I feel so crappy?”

  “Because you hate letting people down, and I bet you feel like you let her down. It’s obvious how you feel about Molly. We all saw it that day on-site.”

  I nod. “I’m fucking crazy about her. It’s almost like the past ten years didn’t happen as far as my feelings go.”

  “Then that’s your answer.”

  “She’s coming over on Friday to hang out.”

  Stu grins. “Hang out?”

  “Well, who knows what will happen?” I take a sip of beer. “All I know is that it’s good to spend time with her again.”

  With tomorrow being a working day, one by one, people peel off to go home. We’ve all had something to eat, a couple of drinks, and will hit work tomorrow with a new zeal to get everything wrapped up.

  Once Bridget, Becky, and Stu are gone, Grace comes around the table and sits on my lap.

  “Jackson said next time he’s gonna make me a burger. Without all the yucky stuff I don’t like.”

  I chuckle. “Is that right?”

  She nods, her eyes as big as saucers. “No tomato. No lettuce. Just cheese and sauce and meat.”