Begin Again: A Stay Novella

by Jennifer Probst

  Chloe tore off her black reading glasses and dropped them on the desk. Her thoughts whirled. “God, each time I think I’ve seen everything I’m schooled on my naivety. What’s the plan?”

  Vivian narrowed her gaze with a touch of ruthlessness. “Fight back, of course. We’re bringing a civil suit against her. I’ve got a lawyer coming in to join us. He’s been working with the Animal Defense Fund and has experience with neglect and hoarding cases. I want you to work with him specifically on this case. You’re my point person. Get him up to speed and provide anything he wants—I want to move quickly on this. I also got some kickback from some of the shelters who can’t take on anymore animals, so we need to circle back and place five more.”

  Chloe nodded, her mind already clicking through the endless tasks she needed to quickly finish or delegate. Working for an animal rescue organization full-time had always been her dream, and Advocates for Animals fulfilled a career goal. Ever since she began working for the Bishop horse rescue farm when she was nineteen, the need to help the voiceless animals had wormed its way in her blood. She’d been gifted to find her true path, but the deeper she got involved, she realized it was an emotionally draining, undercompensated, overworked career.

  She still couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

  Chloe focused on the wins, not the losses. Just like her father had taught her.

  They quickly discussed the mechanics of dispersing her current cases and brainstormed on some places that might take the last five dogs. “Keep me updated on any issues. I hope you didn’t have a social life scheduled or anything.”

  “I’ve found fun overrated lately,” she teased back, used to the time demands of the job.

  “I find that hard to believe for the newly crowned Bachelorette of New York City.”

  Chloe rolled her eyes. “That was the worst thing to happen to me. The press hounds me enough, now I’m on the radar for every social media paparazzi, too.” The popular online magazine, Females Today, was geared toward the twenty-something crowd and loved to create surveys and polls that quickly went viral. Unfortunately for her, the new issue featured not only her work, but her down-to-earth fashion, which boasted regular stores rather than high-priced designers. She wished the month would be over already, so the hype would finally die down and she could get a bit more privacy.

  “I think you’ve been holding out on me.” Her boss cocked her hip and regarded her with sly curiosity. That’s when Chloe knew they’d downshifted to gossip. “You still dating that Chris Evans lookalike?”

  She held her breath for a few precious seconds and hoped for the flock of butterfly wings. But as usual, her tummy was frustratingly silent. Pushing away the silly, adolescent thought, she nodded. “Yep. We’re supposed to go to dinner this week.”

  Vivian whistled. “Any action yet? I’m imagining that man knows how to wield his shield…well.”

  Chloe laughed. “Think it’s supposed to be a sword, but I like the imagery. God, no, we’re not at that point. We’re still getting to know each other.”

  Vivian wrinkled her nose. “Known him long enough to grab some action. You’re way too mature for me, Lake. And cautious. Most hot single women who are the darling of the press would be taking advantage of some serious bed hopping. Are you worried about scandals?”

  The question made her pause and think. Was she? She’d been in the spotlight since she was young, with a father who was once the NYC mayor, and now served as the current governor for the past two years. She’d struggled for a while in her early college years, acting out in spectacular fashion, resentful of being stuck under a microscope for her father’s career, but now it was just part of her everyday life. In fact, she’d found her social media status quite useful in soliciting funds for Advocates for Animals and helping change the law. Networking and connections were both a blessing and curse and could be used for good or evil. Her father had taught her that lesson early, and to never take a favor without knowing what it would cost the soul.

  “I don’t think so,” she said. “I just prefer going slow and getting to know a guy before I take him to bed. Drew seems amazing, but so did the last one. Learning he only wanted me to get to my father was a bit of a confidence killer.”

  Vivian shuddered. “Lake, you can’t compare Drew to that slimy weasel. And if he’d known anything about your father, he would’ve realized the governor doesn’t take lightly to his daughter getting played.”

  She couldn’t help the laugh that escaped her lips at the memory. Dad had always been overprotective, especially after losing her mother so young. Even though Chloe was capable of fighting her own battles, she had to admit she got a bit of satisfaction after the weasel found himself frozen out from his high-society friends he’d been so proud of.

  She might work for the greater good, but she still loved a worthy payback.

  “True. How about you? Hot date this week?”

  Vivian snorted. “Of course. He’s cute, loves to cuddle, and adores me.”

  Chloe lifted a brow. “Rufus?”

  “Correct. My pup is better than another crushing disappointment. If you find another Chris Evans, do me a favor. Throw him my way. I know exactly how to work his shield.”

  A laugh bubbled from her lips. She loved how Vivian worked hard and played harder. “Got it. When is the suit coming?” she asked.

  Vivian glanced at her watch. “Tomorrow. Let’s get our crap together so we can dive right in when he arrives.”

  “Pizza, tacos, or sushi?” she called out.

  “Comfort food, Lake. Pizza all the way. With pepperoni.”

  Her boss disappeared down the hall. Chloe glanced at the lit-up phone lines, overloaded inbox, and endless piles of papers. Then she took a deep breath, trying to clear her mind so she could be her best for the fur babies who needed her. Most of the lawyers in animal welfare were good intentioned, smart individuals who took the job for the cause rather than the pay, but Chloe had come across many who seemed to own inflated egos and an entitled sense of power. Nothing pissed her off faster than a man who believed a law degree trumped all the other workers who tirelessly sacrificed their time.

  She’d do everything in her power to stop another abuser in this world.

  She hoped the suit held the same goal, because she’d be stuck with him for a while.

  Pushing the thought aside, Chloe got back to work.

  Chapter Two

  Owen Salt paused outside the door, his hand clenching into a death-grip around his briefcase.

  His life was about to change.

  He took a few moments to calm his thundering heart and hoped he hadn’t taken the ultimate gamble for nothing. All his hard work over the past few years to transform not only his career, but the man he was had been concentrated into a single goal.

  Chloe Lake.

  He squared his shoulders and knocked.

  “Come in!”

  This time, he didn’t hesitate. He walked into her office, set his briefcase down, and waited for her to tear her glance from the computer.

  His gaze swept over her cramped office, the finely organized chaos a staple of an overworked rescue agency, but it was the woman behind the desk who commanded his full attention.

  Time stopped, then raced backwards until he was once again that awkward, young kid, staring at the most beautiful girl he’d ever seen. Even now, prepared for the shock of emotion that punched through him, he was struck a bit dumb and mute as he greedily took in her appearance.

  Her hair was shorter now, barely touching her shoulders, a dark sable brown with deep hints of mahogany. He remembered running his fingers through the strands, the silky pull and dance of silk rising to meet him. Her face was turned toward her screen, red lips pursed as she silently read. A pair of trendy black glasses perched on her nose. He’d memorized every angle of her face until she haunted his dreams. Heart-shaped face. Sharp, angular cheekbones, rounded chin, and a pert nose she’d always groaned about. He remembered kissing it while sh
e fought to get away, her giggles rising to his ears like music. Remembered rolling in the green grass of the meadow, limbs entangled, lips pressed together, the haunting scent of sunshine and daisies permeating his senses and wrecking him for anyone after her.

  His throat tightened but he remained still and stoic. Waiting.

  She looked up.

  The naked flash of vulnerability and searing pain almost made him stumble back. Shock flared in those cobalt blue depths, but he dove beyond the surface, desperate for the other emotions that he could build on; desperate for any type of hope.

  There.

  One precious, fleeting moment of longing flared pure and bright. And he knew he’d do everything in his power to exploit that lingering feeling because it meant she hadn’t forgotten him.

  She pushed back in her chair and stumbled to her feet, eyes wide in her face. “Owen? Wh—what are you doing here?”

  He offered a small smile. “I’m back in New York. It’s been a long time.”

  As if realizing she’d already shown him too much, a wall slammed down between them. She stiffened, her hands politely clasped in front of her like she faced a bored politician rather than the man who’d broken her heart. And he had. Badly. But if he was going to have a chance at redemption, he needed to focus on tiny steps. A flash of admiration tangled with disappointment as he watched her quickly compose herself and emanate a cool professionalism. Her voice was still husky, but tipped with ice. “I see. Well, to say this is a surprise is an understatement. Are you visiting your family?”

  He nodded. “This weekend. Will stop by the Bishop farm, too, of course. Have you seen them lately?”

  “Yes. Dad, Alyssa and I try to get out there regularly. They’re all doing well. Mia and Ethan’s daughter, Evie, will be turning one soon. Harper’s expansion has been a success and she’s able to rescue so many more horses.”

  He smiled, his heart full from the image of the beloved farm expanding with children and animals who took care of one another. The Bishops had changed his life, along with Chloe. He thought of them as his second family. “I stayed in touch,” he said, not wanting her to think he’d abandoned them when he moved away.

  Her lips pursed like she’d eaten something bad. “Glad you didn’t leave everyone behind for something bigger and better,” she said. Her light tone contradicted the hardness in her gaze.

  He winced, regretting his last comment. She’d wanted to stay in touch, asked if they could be friends, but he couldn’t. Chloe Lake wasn’t a woman to be kept neatly sidelined. He’d known if it wasn’t a clean break, he’d never be able to change into the man he’d needed to be. “I’m sorry, Chloe,” he said, struggling to find the right words. “It’s just that I—”

  She waved a hand in the air, cutting him off. “No, don’t. There’s nothing left to apologize for, or explain. God knows, too many years have passed for us to trot back down memory lane.” Her smile was stiff and her laugh forced. “I’m glad you stopped in, Owen. It was nice to see you and know you’re doing well. But I have a ton of work to do so now’s not a good time.”

  He cocked his head to study her. The black T-shirt pulled snugly across her breasts, the logo exclaiming Be Part of the Solution, Not the Problem, Adopt Don’t Shop! Her short black skirt emphasized the flare of her hips and long, bare legs. Once, every sweet inch of her body had belonged to him. Standing across the room, her face closed to his probing stare, she was now a stranger.

  He’d accept it. For now. Over the next few weeks, he’d have the opportunity to work with her on a cause they both believed in. He needed to use that small entryway to re-connect. “Okay. Should I introduce myself to the others? Or maybe you can direct me to my workspace while I’m here?”

  She blinked. “What are you talking about?”

  It took him a few beats to realize she didn’t know. Was it possible no one told her who she’d be partnering with? He cleared his throat. “I’m the lawyer from the Animal Defense team. We’re supposed to work together on the Spagarelli case.”

  Her jaw dropped. She quickly snapped it closed and shook her head. “No, that’s not possible. You live in California.”

  “I used to. I finished my internship in LA, then joined Animal Defense. Got my law degree under their tutelage and was recently certified to practice in New York.” He took in her slightly trembling hands as she lifted them to push back her bangs. Damnit, it wasn’t supposed to happen like this. He’d figured she had enough time to anticipate his arrival, but now, it was like facing a wounded warrior who refused to admit weakness. His voice softened. “I thought you knew.”

  “The lawyer was supposed to arrive tomorrow.”

  “I figured I’d start early.”

  “Why are you taking on a case here? Why now?”

  The truth spilled from his lips with ease. “It was time to come home.”

  She jerked, then lifted her chin. Defense lines carved into her face. “How convenient for you. My fault, I guess. I should have asked the suit’s name.”

  The tinge of bitterness made him flinch. He looked down at his slightly rumpled charcoal suit and conservative tie. He’d never be into designer stuff, and was more comfortable in jeans and a T-shirt, but he’d embraced his new career and dressed the part. “Never thought I’d be dubbed a suit.” He gave a lopsided smile, trying to lighten the mood. “Remember when Hei-Hei rushed me and I ended up falling into the mud pile? He clucked like a damn victory chant. Took me forever to get the stink out of my hair and skin.” Memories of them together on the rescue farm, falling in love under the hot summer sun, horseback riding through the vibrant green meadows, laughing and caring for the animals together, hit him full force. His gut clenched with the need to get closer, inhale her scent, touch her smooth cheek. But he no longer had that right.

  “I remember. But now you’re a suit.” Her blue eyes lit up like a lightning strike. “This case is important to us. I’ll work with you to stop those SOBs from hurting any more animals. I’ll be polite and respect the relationship we had. What I won’t do is pretend we can ever go back or fall into some convenient friendship, talking about the good times we experienced. I just…can’t.” She turned on her heel and headed back to the safety of her desk. “You’ll be working in here with me. I’ll tell Jack to bring in your desk and you can set up in that corner. I need to finish up a few leftover projects first. I can be ready to attack this fresh tomorrow. Agreed?”

  It was the tiny break in her voice that made him nod. This was hard for her. What she didn’t realize was how much worse it was for him, because she didn’t know he’d come back to New York for her.

  For a second chance. A chance to love her the way he’d always imagined. As a man who’d made his own way and could finally give himself fully. But she wasn’t ready to hear his explanations or excuses. Not yet.

  “Understood.”

  “Vivian is down the hall, last room on the right. She’ll get you anything you need.”

  With those final words, she sat back down, focused on her screen, and resumed typing.

  Owen shut the door gently behind him.

  For years, he’d wondered if he could still feel the same. Wondered if too much time had passed and too many changes occurred to experience the strong pull of rightness he’d always felt around her. The sense of knowing he’d found his soul mate, even at nineteen years old.

  But looking into those deep blue eyes was like the first time all over again.

  Nothing had changed. His heart still belonged to her.

  Now he just had to prove he’d left for a loftier reason and that they were meant to be together.

  It was a good thing he liked a challenge.

  * * * *

  The door clicked.

  Chloe stopped typing and tangled her shaking fingers together.

  Oh, God, he was back.

  Not only in New York. Here. In her second home, the place she poured her heart and soul into. He’d be working in her space, physically close. Late
nights. Sharing take-out. Trapped. It was like a nightmare unveiling in gruesome slow motion, and no way to wake up.

  What was she going to do?

  Jumping to her feet, she grabbed her hot pink stress ball from her desk, squeezing madly as she paced. Her mother had once told her there was no such thing as coincidence, and everything happened in the universe to lead people to their destiny. She’d always loved the theory, holding it close to her heart when things seemed hopeless.

  Now? She wanted to scream for her mother to explain what the hell this could possibly mean. Had she done something wrong to deserve punishment? Was this payback for a deeper crime in her past? Or was the universe just a big jokester, like the Greek gods of mythology moving humans around for their humorous entertainment?

  Chloe groaned and squeezed harder. The mushy texture had just enough give to satisfy her. Out of all the cases, in all the world, why did he have to push into hers? She briefly considered telling Vivian she wanted out, but the idea of quitting and allowing him to win pissed her off. After all, he’d left her. He’d been the one who calmly told her they shouldn’t be friends and the break should be complete. He was the one who decided to show up in her office, talking about beloved memories, like everything was fine and they could easily become beer buddies.

  Jerk. She fumed and paced, trying to follow the wild threads of her emotions. Had she been cool and calm enough? Had he glimpsed she’d wanted to fall to her knees in agony when she’d looked up to see him standing in front of her, broad shoulders framing the doorway, his thick, curly hair now tamed neatly back, dressed in a proper suit like a grown-up instead of a rebellious young guy who wanted to laugh, have fun, and tackle life as it came rather than make plans?

  God, he’d changed. He seemed taller, more fit. Calm, as if he’d found his center and confidence over the years. He’d grown a goatee, the sexy scruff hugging his lush lips and framing his jaw. But it was his eyes that did her in. The palest summer sky blue. Always filled with laughter, a bit of mischief, and a naked admiration that made her feel like the most beautiful woman on the planet. She’d found his crush sweet at first. He was two years younger, a freshman in college, and she’d never imagined seeing him as more than a friend or little brother type. Until that fateful dance at a wedding that changed everything.