Free Unspoken 3 by A Lexy Beck

doors opened and we were invited back in.
    “Cain, the board has come to a decision. It’s been a very challenging few months and the last several weeks have been the worst of it. As you are aware, we engaged Dunning, Durst and Chandler to represent the board’s interests in what was best for Vawter, and you were involved in that decision upfront. We looked toward your guidance, your direction, your leadership. In light of everything that has transpired over the last few weeks, and most notably in the last forty-eight hours, the board has determined that now, more than ever, we need your continued leadership and direction to get through this trying time.” Jeffrey Ballard extended his hand to Cain.
    “Thank you, I appreciate your support. I won’t let you down.” Cain’s confidence seemed to return before my very eyes; his posture improved and his beautiful eyes regained their gleam.
    “Cain, one last thing—the board has necessitated that we immediately shut down the sites and companies where the breaches have occurred. We understand it will mean a significant financial loss, but it’s a call we had to make.”
    “Done, and thank you again.” Cain flashed his amazing smile around the room and personally thanked each board member as they left the meeting. The room cleared and all that remained were a few board members having private conversations, our team, Cain, and Ashley, who had been responsible for taking the minutes of the meeting.
    “Cain, can I have a moment?” Dad extended his hand and shook Cain’s, pulling him aside from the group. “I meant every word I said earlier, but it’s not in my demeanor to stick my neck out for someone like I did.”
    “I understand, sir, I appreciate it, I won’t—”
    “No, Cain, you won’t let me down. Or my daughter. Jennifer is in love with you and that’s the reason I did what I did—for her. I have no doubt that you’re a good guy. I look forward to working with you in the future.”
    Cain continued to shake Dad’s hand. “Thank you again, Mr. Dunning.”
    Dad didn’t look back at me and quietly left the room as I stood in awe having overheard every word. I ran to catch up with him. “Dad!” I followed him into the hall. “Dad!”
    I caught up with him and hugged him. “Thank you for this.”
    “I do love you, Jennifer.” He smiled briefly and strolled down the hall, away from the departing group.

Chapter Thirteen
    I walked back into the meeting room to look for Cain. It was mostly empty, with the exception of Reese and a few straggling board members. I felt a tap on my shoulder and spun to see Cain grinning behind me. “Ms. Dunning, can I speak with you a moment, privately?”
    “Sure, Mr. Parker.” I played along as he led me down an empty hallway on the other side of the office.
    Cain grabbed my hand once we were out of sight and paused, looking into my eyes. “In love with me, huh?”
    My face turned red. “I can’t believe Dad told you that. You have so much to think about right now… I don’t want to add to it, but yes.”
    His arms went around me and he kissed me passionately. “The feeling is mutual.”
    “Cain, someone will see us!” I pulled away only after feeling the warmth of his lips on mine. I wanted more.
    “Come!” Cain pulled me into a dark, unused conference room, the door partially closed. Once inside, he wrapped his arms around me and held me close. We stood for a minute, in the dark silence, just holding one another.
    The silence was broken by a quiet whisper in the far corner of the room.
    “That didn’t really happen did it? I can’t believe you would….promise me that you are telling the truth…Dylan if you’re lying to me…Ok, I’ll call you when I know more.” Ashley hung up her phone and Cain and I broke away from our embrace to meet her head on, Cain still holding my hand.
    Ashley turned to see us standing there. “Oh…I was just talking to Mom. Someone had to tell her about Rachel. I figured it