Chapter 14

Proviso

Dylan

The last minute trip to DC was not on the agenda today. Monday was Lau's deadline but it carried on with negotiations all damn week. In the early hours of the morning, before the sun even rose, I kissed Brenda goodbye intending on heading straight to the office. Instead, my phone rang non-stop in the car. It started with our legal team and then Jeff telling me Lau was in DC. Culturally I had fucked up by not going to that trip to Hong Kong and I needed to see him in person. The day was long and draining. It snowballed from thereon. Having Brenda back in my life this week should have eased this tension. But somewhere between not having a clue how we were going to continue our relationship from two separate parts of the world and not getting my way with Lau, I was in a shit mood. I know Brenda feels the tension too. She senses my moods and this fucking deal and even though she hasn't said anything, she isn't loving business Dylan. All the sex and promises won't last forever because Brenda and me, we were always more than that.

The meeting in DC is longer than I anticipated. Lau seems on the ledge and I'm hoping it's for my benefit. I say my polite goodbyes and head straight for the airport, thankful I have a plane on standby always. With barely any time to spare due to the delay on the tarmac, my driver brings me to the Bel-Age so I can shower and change for the ball. Dressed in my black tuxedo, I splash on some aftershave, style my hair, and then quickly head to Valerie's room. Brenda was there, something about borrowing a dress for tonight.

I knock on the door while fixing my cuffs. When the door opens, I raise my eyes to a radiantly beautiful woman who is all mine. My lips part to release an appreciative sigh. I fucking missed her, and it's only been ten hours since I saw her last.

The long-beaded gown she wears is all black, making her blue eyes stand out win contrast to her dark hair.

"You're late." She gripes, unimpressed.

I pull her towards me, inhaling her perfume as I place my lips on her neck. "And you are beautiful."

She lifts her hands to straighten my bow tie, "You scrub up well. I mean, you look just as good naked as you do in a tuxedo."

"Are you trying to say you want to see me naked right now?"

"Um, can you queue the dirty talk?" Val yells from the couch. "My dinner is on its way, I want to be able to eat without thinking about the two of you naked and banging."

"You need to get laid." Brenda shouts back to Valerie. "There's a guy in my theater group who is single. Really cute and is just your type."

"Is he your type?" I ask with slight annoyance.

Brenda purses her lips while eyeing me. "My type is jealous billionaires who turn up late for a night out in which they suggested."

"I'm sorry baby. I had to work."

"Of course you did. Story of this new life with you." She mumbles beneath her breath.

"Have fun, lovers, and Bren, send me his insta handle so I can check this hot nerd out."

"I never said he was a nerd." Brenda drags.

"He's in a theater group, besides, don't burst the bubble," Valerie complains openly, "The nerds are wildest in the sac."

Brenda pulls me out of the hotel suite and closes the door behind us, eager to leave.

"So what, you're friends with this guy online?" I question.

"Yeah, I'm friends with a lot of actors in my theatre group online."

I remain quiet, keeping my opinion to myself, and try my best to suppress the jealousy growing inside me. It shouldn't bother me, but it does. Brenda has this whole other life in London, with men in her circle. The whole possible long distance thing is roaring to life, bringing forward a fear and insecurity. There could be other Austin's.

Inside the car, I distract myself by burying my lips in her neck, careful not to ruin her lipstick. My hand wanders up the slit of her dress into her panties as she moans while my fingers circle her wet center.

Our heated exchange is interrupted by the incessant ringing of my phone. Out of breath, I quickly check who it is.

"Do you have to answer that?" Brenda breathes while rubbing the bulge in my tux pants.

"It's Jeff. He is my top executive."

She releases a sigh before shuffling out of my grip, turning her face toward the window.

"Jeff," I greet, clearing my throat.

"I've got Lau's team on the line."

"Now?" I ask, annoyed. "What's the verdict?"

"Are you seated?" Jeff begins, then stalls, "Lau's final counteroffer is eighty percent Patagonia and twenty percent Walsh financials."

My teeth grind on their own accord while I shut my eyes to try to calm down. "Even with my trip to DC? Why won't this fucker give up?"

"Jim has agreed, if you do," Jeff reveals cautiously, knowing this is not the news I want to hear.

My pride is in the way, and under different circumstances, I would have fought the battle until I won. But as I look over at the woman beside me, the reason I breathe, the fight is well over. My energy is pulled toward her, this fight has to be redirected to what's truly important. Reluctantly, I call defeat.

"Fine."

"Fine?" Jeff repeats, stunned. "Wait a minute, have I missed something? I thought you wanted nothing to do with Jim Walsh?"

"Things change." I lower my voice while hanging my head. "Tell him I'll sign tomorrow."

I hang up the phone, but my mood is less than eager to attend a god damn ball after this outcome. The only reason I'm invited to events like this is because of the rather hefty donation. The event itself is just people climbing up my ass wanting money for their charities.

We arrive at the ball later than the other guests though they are still arriving. The street is still crowded, lined with limousines and luxury cars. Flashes are going off right, left and center. The paparazzi are scurrying around, trying to snap something exciting. I exit the car first, reaching for Brenda's hand while avoiding anyone photographing us. I do my best to do this anytime I'm in this position, I don't like the attention and in this situation all Brenda and I need is for our personal lives to be splashed in the media.

The grand ballroom is enormous. It's size big enough to hold all of the elite in Beverly Hills and then some. The tall ceilings are covered in rows of draped sheer fabric, but my attention is directed to the large chandelier hanging from the middle. Its crystals are reflecting light which shimmers on the dance floor.

There's a band wearing black and white tuxedos, perfectly positioned on the stage playing soft swing music, their hums and beats drowning in the noise of the growing crowd.

We are shown to our seats, which unfortunately, are seated beside non other than the Fleetwood's. They smile kindly at Brenda and I, their features embarrassed from their daughter's actions. Brenda politely says hello and acts as if they have no reason to be uneasy. They get to talking about how her parents are doing while I'm pulled away to talk business, of course until the seven course meal is served.

I expected Brenda to stay by my side throughout the night, but she knows more than few people in Jim's circle than she cares to admit. This is Jim's group, older gentleman and women who are tied to him somehow. I'm glad he isn't here too.

She is a good mingler and outgoing, it begins to bother me since I invited her here as my date even though I'd barely spent any time with her. When she manages to break free and finds me, I'm at the bar finishing my second bourbon and just ordered my third. She eyes it skeptically but doesn't say anything. I try my best to tell her, saying without words I'm in control, which is the truth. I just hate these things and I'm questioning why I even wanted to come.

She places her hand gently on my cheek getting it. She takes my drink out of my hand taking a small sip.

"How do you even know these people?" I question, trying not to sound irritated.

"Unfortunately, I'm Jim Walsh's daughter. I may have been living in London off the grid, but they know who I am. Some of them met me when I was five. Like I remember who the fuck they are. Apparently one bought me a jewelry box."

I chuckle softly, feeling like an idiot for my behavior. "Do you still have it?" I muse.

"Fuck if I know."

We both laugh until another old couple walks past us. Once again, they recognize Brenda from a play she did in London. She rolls her eyes at me as they drag her away to introduce her to their daughter that allegedly attends RADA at this moment. I smirk and shake my head at her expression. Brenda turns around and shrugs, secretly loving the attention if it's about her acting. I smile staring at her. She is truly breathtaking. I sip my bourbon, taking in Brenda's ass in her tight beaded gown when Easton Lewis, a well known club owner and friend of no other than Stuart's stands beside me. This guy is a fucking joke, funding clubs on his daddy's dollar. Much like Stuart Carson. Who is still very present in this group. I look around hoping to god that douche isn't here. I know Easton from when we were kids, never close or hung out but he did belong to the beach club many moons ago.

"McKay." He greets while extending his hand. "Long time no see."

I reluctantly extend my hand to shake his. "It's been while."

"Did you see Carson's ex is here?" Oh hell no, "Damn…he'd be pissed he missed her. Him not being here makes this night more interesting though. Wasn't sure who I would try to fuck later but ding ding ding."

"Excuse me?"

"C'mon McKay. Who can resist a sweet pussy like that? Stuart said she gives good head."

My hands clench into fists, anger roaring through me like a vicious wave ready to crash on the shore.

I step in his face, clamping my teeth, "If you ever speak that way of her again, I swear to god I will end your fucking life." I grit, ready to smack his fucking face.

"Hey, what's your problem?" The fucker laughs, "Oh look, she must have sensed it. She is walking over here."

Brenda places her hand on my arm, instantly noticing my tensed muscles where her eyes fall upon. "Is everything okay?"

Easton extends his hand, "I haven't introduced myself, Easton Lewis Jr. I've met your father before."

"You and the whole world apparently." She mumbles, then smiles politely, shaking his hand.

"I know Stuart, we've met many many years ago once, at his parents house, you must remember. I'm pretty memorable." He says sure of himself.

Brenda moves closer to me, weary of his sleazy grin. Still trying to control my anger, I pull her into me, which Easton notices right away.

"Right, so you and McKay are what, fucking? Bit of a downgrade from Carson huh? He'd love to hear who you have your claws into now. Tell me McKay, are you having Brenda sign a prenup too?"

My lips pull back, baring my teeth as my pulse begins to elevate. Every sense is heightened, increasing my strength as I prepare myself to knock him the fuck out.

Brenda turns to me, placing her hands on my chest with a steady plea. "Let it go, walk away."

I turn to look at her confused, "Are you fucking kidding me?" I whisper harshly.

She turns back around, "I don't remember you at all. I guess you aren't very memorable after all. And considering Dylan and I started dating in high school, I'd say my short time with Stuart was more of the downgrade. Don't forget to add that in when you see him."

Brenda grabs my hand, attempting to drag me away, but I stop shy of Easton to lean in his ear. "You will pay for your careless comments. Watch your back. I will destroy you."

I follow Brenda until we are out of the room. Angered by the whole night, I let go of her hand and begin walking away until I push open the door to an empty ballroom, needing to be alone.

"Why are you letting him get to you? He's a jerk who gets off riling people up."

I pace the area, wringing my hands. "The things he said…and Stuart…fucking Stuart!"

Brenda sighs, "Come on…Dylan seriously? You want to fight about Stuart, should I remind you who you were going out with at that time."

I ignore that dig, "He said Stuart told him you give good head."

Brenda laughs out loud, "Seriously? My god…Dylan…who cares!" She shouts.

"I care," I yell back, my voice echoing in the empty room.

"Well you shouldn't! I didn't even do that with Stuart. He was lying. And regardless, what you should care about is what I think, the woman you've professed your love too, the girl who had all her firsts with you. God, Dylan, all night, you've had this chip on your shoulder. You were the one who wanted to take me out to this thing. Now what? You're regretting it because some asshole knows Stuart and said some bullshit to you?"

Brenda stares at me with a pained expression.

"No, it's not that okay, I didn't like hearing that but it's not that." I take a deep breath, trying to control my anger. "Just before Malibu, that trip to Hong Kong I didn't show up too, I was suppose to go to close this merger, it will be the biggest takeover for Patagonia. I thought I had it in the bag. I got the call tonight of the final offer, and they will only sign over if Lander Walsh Financials is involved. I'm frustrated, Bren. I didn't work this hard to compete with your dad. During the call in the car, I was told Jim is ready to sign. 80/20 Patagonia."

Brenda crosses her arms with a steady gait, "It sounds to me like my dad is extending an olive branch, twenty percent isn't much, but your pride is in the way, right?"

"It's not that simple."

"Well, tell me, what will this takeover do for you and your company?"

"It will be everything. It will strengthen our position in the stock market and create thousands of jobs. We have big plans to shake up the industry, with Lau's online platforms we will be the top and have exclusives on selling with social media. It's what's been missing considering as time goes on, the web and social media will continue to take over. We would be so far ahead of the game it's not even funny."

"Right, so all that is worth giving up because you won't work with my father, is that what your saying?"

I bow my head until she closes the distance between us and raises my chin gently with her hand. As our eyes meet, something changes inside me, the anger slowly subsiding and replaced with warmth of her deep stare.

"Dylan, it's time to let go of the past. I know it still hurts and I know my father has done unacceptable things to you…to us, but we're together now."

"I know you're right." I sigh, placing my hands around her waist and drawing her body flush with mine. "But I have the right mind to go punch that fuckers lights out. He can not talk that way about you…or us."

"Hey." She murmurs, stroking my cheek. "Come on he knows nothing about us. This jealousy thing, we need to control it, both of us. None of what that dip shit said matters or is even true. I'm with you, and it'll only every be you. It's always been you. Even when I was with Stuart Carson."

I smirk, holding her closer to me, "You promise that?"

She places her lips on mine, kissing me at a teasingly slow pace. Fuck, how does she make me hard this quick.

"I promise you that," She murmurs, moving her hands to my belt. "And I'll even show you…"

"Here?"

With a naughty grin, she whispers, "What…remember I give good head."

I growl, pulling her aggressively against me. My lips fall on hers, tasting her tongue with a sense of urgency.

"Always the smart ass."

She giggles, as I back her against an empty table. Lifting her ass so she sits upon it. I lift her dress, clutching her panties into my fist, sliding it aside while she unbuckles my belt and pulls my boxers and pants down. Without any hesitation, I slide myself in, groaning at the warm sensation wrapping around me.

"It's why you've always loved me." She moans, her body begging for more.

I still my movements, catching my breath while I stare deeply into her eyes. Slowly, I ease my mouth on hers without the rush. As I come up for air, I run my thumb along her bottom lip.

"And I will always love you. This is what I want…" I trail off, pumping into her, watching her crumble beneath my touch. "No one will ever make me feel the way you do."

"Then own me." She begs, moving faster. "Own all of me because I'm all yours, Dylan. I always have been."

And our bodies become one, we both come together.

A beautiful finish with the woman who owns me.

Brenda Walsh

Soon to be McKay if everything goes as plan.

The last time I went to dinner with the Walsh's was years ago. It was maybe the first year I was living in London and Cindy and Jim had visited. We had gone to a small cafe and enjoyed light hearted conversation and good food. We're standing outside the Walsh's front door to their condo and it brings back memories. This is a new place of residence and not the old Walsh house but the nostalgia is still present. Standing here brings up the memory of coming to pick up Brenda for our first real date. Cindy answered the door and when she went to see if Brenda was ready, I was left to talk to Jim. A talk where Jim asked me how I was holding up because my father had just left town and was wanted on charges. I had told him I was okay, that I didn't talk to the press much. I proceeded to tell him I never felt comfortable being Jack McKay's son because…I barely knew the man. Jim was comforting, even telling me it was a shame things we're like that. I remember telling Jim, Brenda and Brandon we're lucky to have parents like you. Even after all the shit that man had put me through, I still thought that way. They were lucky. Then my memories take me further, to other moments with Brenda…Brandon and even as a friend of the family. Teen years…into early adult and on. So many times I'd visited and felt like they were my second home.

A lot of that was because of Cindy. She'd always welcomed me with open arms, however this visit is different.

Brenda squeezes my hand as we both stand outside the door.

"It's going to be okay," she assures me.

I nod, not sure what to say. Did I think it would be okay? I had no idea what to expect. Just because Jim agreed to the takeover doesn't mean it was the so-called olive branch Brenda mentioned last night.

Brenda opens the door and calls out. Cindy comes down the stairs, excited to see us with a welcoming smile on her face. She hugs her daughter, then turns to me, caressing my cheek before we embrace.

"Where's Brandon?" Brenda asks hopeful. Maybe she thought having her brother here would help ease the unknown and tension. If I was being honest, it wouldn't have.

"Brandon is out with Kelly, Donna and David." Cindy answers with a smile.

"Kelly huh?" Brenda smiles and so does Cindy.

"Don't ask me…I'm just his mother." Cindy jokes.

"Well, that's a shame I was hoping he'd be here. Haven't seen him much since Malibu." Brenda says disappointed.

"I know honey, I'm sure you'll feel better once you see what I baked."

"And your fancy new coffee machine?" Brenda claps her hands with excitement. She turns to face me. "You have to try the coffee. Best I've ever had."

"I'll take your word for it." I grin, then glance at Cindy with knowing eyes, unable to ask the question but knew she could read my mind.

"He's in his office, down the hall fourth door on the left."

Brenda places her hand on my arm. "I'm proud of you."

The two of them disappear to the kitchen but not before Brenda turns back to give me a reassuring smile. I are the steps down the long away, admiring the familiarity of artwork and photographs hung on the wall.

There is one long wall with photos of the Wash twins. I stop to look at each image but am drawn to Brenda's smile, which graces every photo she is in. The moments captured remind me of a time when life was less complicated.

Cindy's touch is everywhere in this new home, but it feels familiar even though it's the first time I've been here. Home is home, no matter what city or town you're in as long as your surrounded by the people that you love and love you back. The longer I gaze upon these photos on the wall, the more I want to start my life with Brenda. Marriage, family…I want it all with her.. It's a surprising feeing coming from me.

However, my biggest hurdle is behind the closed door at the end of the hallway.

I am not sure how to even start. There is so much history behind us. This is a man who I had always looked up to as a young man. He was a second father to me. He introduced me to a world my father could never have, a role of devoted husband, father and even in business. In return, we had both broken trust with each other.

My knuckles gently tap on the door, and a few seconds later, I hear, "Come in."

I take a deep breath, entering the room to see him lift his gaze. There isn't any anger, nor a pleasing expression, just your typical poker face.

"May I take a seat?"

He gestures without saying a word.

"I got a call yesterday you agreed to Lau."

"I got the call this morning you also agreed to Lau." He counters.

I lower my eyes, wringing my hands, unsure where to begin.

"I wasn't driving that night. I had started spiraling that last year in London but kept it from Brenda as best I could. It was raining really hard that night and Brenda was really upset to get a call from a local pub to come and pick me up. She lost control…" Tears fill my eyes at the memory, "and we hit a tree."

I look up at Jim, he is listening his eyes locked on mine. "I know I can't change the past but I need you to know that I love her. I've always loved her. I didn't mean to hurt her…you or Cindy."

"Why did you leave London then?" He begs the question with a blank expression. "If you claim to have loved her, you could have defied me, taking me to court? You know you would have won."

I sigh, "Because I didn't think I was good enough for her. Brenda is beautiful and incredibly smart. She was just beginning her acing career. I didn't want to ruin her life. I wanted her to thrive, become the person she was destined to be. And without the love and support of her father, that wouldn't have been possible."

Jim resigns, letting out a sigh too, "You're not to blame. I pushed you away and used your insecurities against you. Cindy warned me to leave it alone, to let her make her own decisions. But I was angry and terrified after that accident. To see your daughter banged up like that, in a coma…it's something that you can't get out of your head and I never want to see again."

We both sit in silence while reflecting. It may have been years ago, but the emotions are sill raw.

"I wanted what was best for her. I had no idea Bren was pregnant and lost the baby in that accident. I had no idea of her struggles afterward. I had my own struggles in Beverly Hills when I returned and did things I am not proud of. I wish I hadn't left."

Jim nods with his lips pressed into a hard line. "I didn't know about the pregnancy either. I try to think back if I would have, would I have came up with that deal? I don't know honestly. The father in me thinks I would have wanted to be there for her and wouldn't have changed anything, the man in me, the one that loves his wife dearly, knows you deserved to be there for each other. I didn't make that easy. I didn't expect to feel so guilty about it, after knowing what Brenda went through."

"I know," I say quietly. "I just didn't expect any of this. I didn't expect Brenda to move on and get engaged. I didn't expect what that news would do to me. I didn't expect to be sitting here in front of you…too be honest."

Jim stares a me, "And now, what are your intentions with my daughter?"

"Marriage, children, creating a life of memories." I tell him with ease.

There is a gleam in his eye with a sight smile lingering. "You seem sure."

"I am sir." I answer confidently.

"Well quite some aspirations. You may want to save that speech for your proposal."

I raise my eyes to his, "I'm sorry Jim."

Jim gets up and moves to the side of the desk I'm sitting on, "No I'm sorry Dylan. I wasn't fair and let my ego and temper get the best of me. I know you know it isn't new." He chuckles, "But…you didn't deserve it and either did Brenda. Someday you'll have kids and you'll know what I mean, even though it doesn't excuse any of it."

I nod, not knowing exactly what to say. Part of me is surprised by his apology. He goes to move on the other side of the desk and sits again, "I just have one request for you."

"What is it?" I ask almost scared.

"If you love Brenda like you say you do, it's for life. There is no turning back, changing your mind. My daughter deserves the best."

Unable to hide my smirk, I challenge him, "And you think I am best?"

Jim chuckles, he tilts his head back and forth, "According to Lau, you are. According to my son and wife and my daughter. Even Valerie is team Dylan and you know how demanding that woman is."

I laugh with a nod. After a few seconds of silence, he continues.

"I want to thank you."

"For what?"

"For not falling for my shit, for coming to Malibu and for getting my daughter away from that shit head Austin."

I laugh out loud, "Gladly." And he joins in laughing too. Well look at that, Jim and I actually agree on something.

"I'm proud of you, Dylan." He confesses. "In my years of being in this business, no one has ever challenged or gone against me as you have. In return, you are on your way to surpassing my place in the market. Despite everything which went on over the years, I've watched your every move and admired you."

To hear Jim's admission is the ultimate compliment a man like myself can receive.

"I've learned from the best."

"Speaking of which, we have a lot ahead of us with this takeover. Lau presented your ideas, and I'm impressed. You're an innovator, and this online platform is going to change the way people buy products. It will change society."

"It's been stressful, my personal life didn't help."

"You and Brenda okay?" He asks hesitantly.

"We're good. It's been tough trying to juggle it all. Having a girlfriend who lives in London isn't logically easy. I'm living at the Bel-Age because there has been no time to find a place. I don't know the answer to anything right now. All I know is that Brenda's career takes precedence, and so if I have to travel every weekend to London, then so be it."

"Perhaps there is a compromise. At least she is here for another couple of weeks."

"I know, but with this takeover, it means a lot of traveling. A lot of hours in the office."

"You're in charge here. You send your execs to do the job."

"It's not that easy to relinquish control." I admit.

Jim nods with a smile, "Story of my life."

I smile at the hidden meaning behind that. I watch as Jim raises from his chair. I stand up as he walks around. Extending my hand as I'd always done, he pulls me in for a hug, patting me on the back. When we separate, his hand holds my shoulder, "I guess we're in business together son."

My smile widens, he hasn't called me that in ages, "I guess we are."

We discuss business as we head to the kitchen.

"Uh oh, looks like the face of someone who means business." Cindy eyes us, yet behind her concern, she appears relieved.

"We have a few things to take care of today." Jim informs them and it momentarily scares me. Like what? "But how about dinner in Malibu tonight?"

Brenda is unable to hide the grin on her face. "Wait, does that mean the two of you have kissed and made up?"

"You sound like Valerie." I mock. I stand behind where Brenda sits on the stool at the counter. My hands massage her shoulders gently, I lean down kissing her cheek gently, "Besides I'd rather kiss you."

Brenda flushes a gorgeous shade of pink, her father rolls his eyes playfully and Cindy gleams a wide smile.

"Here we go again." Jim jokes.

Cindy changes the subject, "Speaking of Valerie, she told me to remind you of some nerd?"

Brenda keeps her lips sealed, eyes me with amusement.

"So dad, what time do I get Dylan back, or should I forget about him altogether and hook up with the nerd?"

I grab Brenda's waist, pinching it playfully, "You're annoying."

"Jealous much?"

I cock my head with a sneer, "yes, much."

"Okay, you two, off you go. Brenda and I have some mother daughter bonding to do. Be back here at six or else," Cindy points her fingerer at Jim.

He appears amused by the threat and kisses her goodbye. I look over to Brenda, unsure of kissing her in front of her parents. Why the hell does it feel awkward like I need to impress them when I've known them for half my life? It's not like we haven't kissed in front of them before.

Brenda's expression is at ease as she stands up. Her arms circle around my neck and her parents disappear. "See you later boyfriend." She whispers against my lips.

I peck her lips gently, keeping her close, "See you at six my love." I say back. Let's face it Brenda is so much more than a girlfriend even though he title thrills me. I move in kissing her slowly. It isn't an inappropriate kiss but I still feel it everywhere. We separate with a smile when we hear a distant clear of her fathers throat brining us back to the Wash kitchen. My hand finds her cheek, "Bye baby." I back away from her redundantly.

She sits back on the stool with a beautiful smile, "Bye." She whispers.

Jim is on my flank pushing me towards the door, "Come on lover boy, geez you two haven't changed a bit."

I hear the women giggle at that comment from the kitchen as I we head out the door and to the office.

It was one of the best working days I've ever had in a long while. Being around Jim and getting down to business without the hatred and resentment is food for my soul. He knew exactly where I was going with ideas, never once questioning me, only making a suggestion where he saw fit. We stayed in the office most of the day while Cindy and Brenda did god knows what, girl things I'd imagine. Time went by quickly, with the clock showing it was getting close to dinner time.

As we finish up Richard enters the conference room. I'm surprised to see him, since I hadn't spoken to him since I fired him. He smiles a kind smile at me but I keep my expression neutral as he approaches the table and takes a seat next to Jim. A sudden rush of deja vu hits me and makes me fidget.

He holds up a folder, after sitting down. "Contracts." He announces and even though I know we have contacts to sign to complete this takeover, the feeling of distrust fills me. Richard places the contract in front of Jim first. He doesn't even read it as he signs his signature quickly.

Jim pushes the contract towards me. It's slides easily and lands in front of me. My eyes skim the contract, it's in legal terms and usually Richard would explain the basics, but he isn't officially my lawyer anymore. Something catches my eye. A correction dated yesterday. What stipulation? My eyes read the paragraph, twice, until my eyes lock with Jim's.

"What is this?" I ask confused.

"I had a proviso of my own in this merger, before agreeing with Lau." Jim keep's his face neutral.

"Jim…are you shitting me?" I say unashamed, "How is this even possible?"

I can't help the tears that fill my eyes. I'm too shocked to be embarrassed by them. Jim Walsh has a proviso indeed. And this one…this one is out of left field.

EEK, what is Jim doing now? Any guesses? We thought things were looking up. Next up we find out, plus Dylan and Cindy have a heart to heart. Brenda and Dylan try to figure out what's next with his business and this added condition to his contract. I know a lot of you expressed your hatred for Jim Wash and didn't understand how Brenda forgave him. The truth is and I mention it numerous times, it took awhile. I also think it's in character for Brenda to always love her father. They may butt heads and he may be a controlling ass, but Brenda respected her father. She always did, even when she was angry with him. Please hit review kids, I'm dying to know what you a fun note, I made a video to go with this story. It's posted on my youtube page Dylan Loves Brenda, called Worth Fighting For. Check it out and let me know in the reviews how you liked it :)