Chapter 52

I stand up again; the chair creaks as I move.

“Would you veto it?”

“It’s possible,” Aiden admits. “More importantly, I think Nick would.”

“Really?”

I’m surprised. Not long ago Aiden told me Dean and Nick had been friends for years. Dean designed Nick’s Malibu house, so I know Nick is satisfied with his work. I also acted as Nick’s point person on that job and know Dean is easygoing and doesn’t fly into a rage over last-minute changes. He’s mainly residential but wants to try commercial projects. Considering how much Nick enjoys finding and nurturing talent, I’m surprised Aiden says that.

“I think the only reason Nick would let Glau come back after bailing is the project’s international reputation,” Aiden says. “Dean doesn’t have that.”

I’m confused. “But Dean didn’t quit,” I say—stupidly, since I should know. I’m the one who brought Nick the final check to sign when the house finished.

“The bungalow,” Aiden says, and I shake my head, still n