Scandalous Engagement

Sam shrugged. “I honestly don’t care if he ever finds out about me, but I’ll stand with you guys as a united front.”

Reese could understand and respect that. They were all at different places in their lives, but ultimately the deathbed confession of one woman had brought t

hem all here. He also understood why Nick’s mother had sent those letters. She hadn’t wanted her son to have no family once she was gone.

“Let’s get this over with,” Nick stated. “I don’t like spending any more time with this bastard than necessary.”

Reese had dealt with some shady jerks in business before, but he hadn’t imagined someone could be as terrible as Rusty was rumored to be. Clearly, he was getting ready to find out.

Sam reached up and pressed the intercom button next to the side door of the offices. Seconds later the door clicked and Nick reached for it.

He opened and gestured. “After you guys.”

Reese stepped inside and the mixed scents of leather and alcohol hit him. The atmosphere was quite different from Sam’s distillery. Here things seemed older, definitely a vibe from twenty years ago, where Sam’s distillery seemed fresh and cutting-edge with the older themes complementing the decor.

“Gentlemen.”

Reese turned toward the staircase and stared up at the landing, at Rusty Lockwood. He seemed older, heavier, in person than the photos Reese had seen online. Or maybe Rusty was just tired and run-down after being arrested and investigated regarding some serious charges.

Having your life and company on the brink of collapse would certainly wreak havoc.

Rusty’s eyes scanned the guys, but ultimately landed on Reese.

“Recruiting new allies?” he asked. “I don’t even know him, so I doubt he wants to see my demise.”

Sam snorted. “You’re about to know him. Are you coming down or standing there lording over us?”

“Are you staying long or will this meeting be short?” Rusty asked as he started to descend the steps.

Reese’s first impression was that the man didn’t like that he was being overrun. He didn’t even bother with an introduction, as most people would when meeting someone new. He clearly didn’t have any positive feelings toward Sam or Nick.

“Trust us, we don’t want to be here any longer than necessary,” Nick stated. “But there are some things we need to discuss.”

Rusty came to the bottom of the steps and crossed his arms over his chest.

Reese couldn’t stand it another second. “I’m Reese Conrad,” he said, extending his hand.

Rusty stared for a second before giving a firm shake. “I’ve heard your name. You own those restaurants.”

Those restaurants, like there was something wrong with being a restaurateur. Like people didn’t have to book reservations at least a month in advance for a table, and even longer for the private lounge.

Rusty clearly had the mentality that he was above everyone else.

“I own eight restaurants and I’m opening my ninth in New York this coming weekend,” Reese amended.

Rusty grunted and turned to Nick. “So what’s this all about?”

“You recall my mother left me a letter about you being my biological father.”

Rusty nodded. “And?”

“She sent letters to two of my brothers as well,” Nick added.

Reese watched as Rusty processed that statement, then the man turned toward Sam, then Reese. His eyes showed absolutely no emotion. Nick might as well have told him the sky was blue for the lack of surprise on his face.

“So is this a family reunion?” Rusty asked. “And how do I know any of this is true?”

Sam took a step forward. “I don’t give a damn if you believe us or not. We’re just letting you know that you do have children. We want to clear the air and you can decide what to do from here. I don’t believe any of us are looking for fatherly advice or holiday invites.”