I walked into my dad’s hotel gala and heard my stepmother snap, “Security, remove her.” I left without saying a word, then quietly

to stay involved with the hotel. I don’t want Celeste or Preston involved. I’ll sign whatever restrictions Elliot wants. Salary freeze. Oversight. No unilateral approvals.”

I studied him.

“Are you leaving her?”

He looked away.

That was enough of an answer.

I closed the folder in my hands.

“Then no.”

His head snapped back toward me. “Mara—”

“No,” I repeated.continue reading …