After Work
A scene from a current WIP which I am absolutely clueless about!
Making her way to the elevator just after 6:30, Quinn was glad to see the end of the day. She spent the afternoon wheeling and dealing like a Wall Street broker securing new health plans to replace Martech after their premium rate hike. Quinn was successful so far, but at the expense of a migraine trying to form behind her eyes.
Pushing the down button, Quinn leaned her head against the cool, marble wall while she waited for the elevator.
“That kind of day, huh?
Quinn turned to find Fletcher Morgan… standing unusually close to her. She hadn’t even heard him approach.
“Unfortunately, yes. But it’s over… for now. It’s safe to make my escape.”
Fletcher nodded, knowingly. “Funny how a forty hour a week job so easily turns into sixty… or more. It seems like we’re always here. I’m sure your husband will be happy to see you walk through the door.”
Quinn quickly looked away and was saved from responding when the elevator doors opened.
Frowning, Fletcher followed her into the car. “Where are you parked?”
“Um… garage level four. Thanks.”
“I’m on four, too.” Pushing the button, Fletcher leaned against the lift wall. “Quinn, did I say something wrong?”
She stared at the descending floor numbers.
“Quinn?”
Smiling faintly with a half shrug, Quinn looked into Fletcher’s eyes for the first time. “I’m going through a divorce, Fletcher.”
The young man froze… momentarily speechless.
“Quinn, I-I… dammit! I feel like such an idiot! I had no idea. Please forgive me for speaking out of turn.”
“It’s okay, Fletcher. You didn’t know. Although, I’m pretty sure you’re probably one of the last few in the building who didn’t know.” She laughed easily.
Fletcher watched her… confused.
“Well… um, you seem to be dealing with it pretty well.”
“It didn’t just happen. It’s been a few months, and honestly — I waited far too long.” Before Fletcher could respond, the elevator doors opened. Quinn quickly exited the lift, heading for her car, pausing long enough for a quick goodbye. “Have a good eve-…”
“How are you really doing, Quinn? I know it’s stressful. My divorce two years ago had me drinking way too much.”
“That bad, huh?”
He nodded.
“It has been stressful. He keeps finding ways to stall, and while he’s stalling, he, along with our families gang up on me trying to make me change my mind.”
“He’s still in love with you?”
“Oscar is in love with Oscar… and the thought of marriage.”
“If he’s going through so much trouble to stall, maybe he’s learned his lesson and reconciliation is possible.”
Quinn smirked.
“It might be a possibility for him, but not for me. He should have thought about that before he cheated… several times.” She saw a flash of anger in his eyes, but it quickly disappeared.
“Are you kidding me? The man was married to you”, he pointed at her, “and he cheated? Is he a sighted man?”
The laugh escaped her lips before she could stop it.
“Seriously, Quinn Landon. You’re a beautiful woman. I don’t know you well personally, but I hear nothing but good things about you around the company. Forgive me for being so forward, but I think your husband — soon-to-be-ex-husband — is an idiot.”
Ducking her head as heat flooded her face, Quinn was grateful her mocha skin hid her blush.
“Thank you, Fletcher. That’s so kind of you to say.”
“You’re welcome. May I ask if you have a good attorney? Your assets being protected?”
“He’s a great attorney, and I’m not giving up a thing. What’s mine stays mine.”
“Good. My ex-wife came into the marriage with nothing, attempted to spend half of what I had while we were married, and tried to take the rest with her after I filed for divorce. This is a community property state, but no need to get carried away.”
“Exactly!”
He reached out and touched her arm. “It will get better, you know?”
Quinn nodded.
“I know. I’m just ready for the storm to pass. I need some sunshine in my life.”
Fletcher nodded in agreement, the firm set of his jaw instantly making Quinn think of John Wick. Damn that Priscilla! She bit the inside of her jaw to keep from smiling.
