Page 15 of The October Arrangement

“I know that for the hundredth time. This October arrangement might just end up killing me. Then what?” She stared at me.

“What do you mean?”

“How are you going to explain to people that I died from your absurd rules?”

“So, you’re the dramatic type,” I said.

“Takes one to know one.” She smiled as she hopped off the stool. “Have a good day, Mr—shit. I don’t even know your last name.”

“It’s Montclair.”

“Have a good day, Mr. Montclair. You stay out of my way, and I’ll stay out of yours.”

“The house better be spotless when I get home,” I shouted as she walked out of the kitchen.

Chapter Eight

Simon

I left the penthouse and climbed into the back of the car.

“Good morning, Simon.”

“Tell me, Nick. What is so good about it?”

“I’m sorry?” His brows furrowed.

“My apologies,” I sighed. “I have a houseguest for the month of October. A woman whom Daisy let stay at my place while I was out of town.”

“Daisy didn’t tell you?”

“No.”

“And yet you’re allowing her to stay?” he asked.

“Only with a list of rules. She’s in New York temporarily for a job and has nowhere else to go.”

“What is her name?”

“Bella Castle.”

“Lovely name. I’m sure she’s beautiful.”

“She is,” I sighed.

I stopped at Sonia’s desk before walking into my office.

“Simon. What are you doing here? I thought you were in Los Angeles.”

“I came back early. I don’t want to be disturbed. I have a lot of work to catch up on. I want you to set up a meeting in the conference room with my executive team for three o’clock this afternoon. Everyone is to be there.”

“Yes, sir. Welcome back.” She smiled.

“Thanks. I’m thinking I should have stayed in Los Angeles,” I sighed.

“Simon?” I heard my father’s voice echoing down the hall. “What the hell?”

I inhaled sharply and walked into my office.