The next afternoon, Allison’s phone lit up with her dad’s name.
Her heart skipped a beat.
Javier had always been dead set against her and Joshua. She’d kept their reconciliation a secret, and now, seeing her dad’s name on the screen, panic fluttered in her chest.
Did he know? Was this the “I need to talk to you” call?
Allison’s brain shot into overdrive, scrambling for excuses.
But when she answered, Javier sounded calm—maybe even cheerful. “Allie, there’s a cocktail party the day after tomorrow. I want you there. I’ll introduce you to some business partners—good connections for your law firm.”
Allison let out the breath she’d been holding. Just networking. No drama.
“Sure, Dad. What time? Text me the details.”
...
On the night of the party, Allison wore an understated black strapless gown. It was classic and conservative—elegant without showing much skin.
Javier moved through the crowd with her, introducing her to CEOs and bigwigs from companies that worked with Owens International. Most of them were the uncle-and-aunt type, friendly but formal.
A few glasses of wine and a handful of friendly conversations later, Allison had locked in some major cases—each worth a small fortune in legal fees.
When they’d made the rounds, Javier guided her over to a younger man waiting by the windows.
Allison’s steps slowed. She recognized him.


“Don’t feel pressured,” Eason said, offering a genuine smile. “Brian told me you’re with Joshua. I won’t say a word to your mom.”
Allison blinked, surprised. “Thanks.”
Eason shrugged, direct and easy. “I’m sure you’ve guessed—our parents are hoping we’ll hit it off. This is just a matchmaking thing.”
Allison nodded. “I figured as much.”

Allison couldn’t help but smile, the tension easing just a little. Maybe this evening wouldn’t be so bad after all.

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