Chapter 35

Hayley POV

You could hear a pin drop when I walk into Blake Steel’s office. He’s sitting behind his large desk, lounging back in his imposing black leather chair, looking relaxed and as if he’s thoroughly enjoying himself.

Marcus, on the other hand, looks tense. More than tense, like he's about to explode. He’s sitting opposite Blake, hunched over, elbows resting on his knees, one of which is bouncing up and down at a frantic speed. There is a tumbler of amber liquid in the other hand and he’s holding it like it’s his lifeline. His grip is so tight, I’m worried the glass will shatter at any second.

Max leans against the wall to one side of the room, arms crossed across his broad chest, dark hair back in a man bun. He doesn’t smile as I walk in, just watches, which lets me know he is firmly in the ‘not happy with Hayley right now’ camp. I didn't lie to him exactly, I just neglected to tell him the whole truth.

I stop just inside the door and smooth out my cream dress, trying to calm m