What an idiot.
The so–called “evidence” Nicolas posted didn’t prove anything about me cheating with Aaron.
The public outcry?
Half of it was just people reveling in the scandal surrounding a high–profile figure like Aaron.
The other half, though? That was orchestrated–clearly a paid smear campaign to stir the pot.
Someone was definitely out to undermine Ford Enterprises and had found the perfect pawn in Nicolas. When the dust settled, if Aaron decided to hold him accountable, Nicolas wouldn’t stand a chance.
Still…
I couldn’t help but worry. This mess could be cleaned up eventually, but the current media frenzy might harm Aaron’s reputation or that of Ford Enterprises.
My phone rang.
It was Aaron.
“Claire?”
His voice sounded a little tired, and a pang of guilt twisted in my chest.
“I’m sorry, Mr. Ford, I…”
“You’ve seen the trending news?” he interrupted.
“Yes,” I replied quietly.
Y
“Don’t blame yourself. This is being pushed by someone with an agenda. It’s not your fault.”
Of course, I understood that. But no matter how I looked at it, this whole mess had started because of me.
“I’m sorry, Mr. Ford. I’ll post a clarification online and confront Nicolas directly.”
At the very least, I wanted to do something–anything–to help minimize the damage.
“Don’t contact him,” Aaron said, his voice suddenly sharper.
I froze, surprised.
“What?”
“I mean, you don’t need to,” he added, his tone softening slightly.
“But-
“”
Before I could finish, he cut me off again.
“Just come downstairs.”
“Downstairs?” I blinked, completely thrown. “What do you
