Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 667

Everyone froze. No one thought Tanya had it in her to be the manager, but when I started clapping, they awkwardly joined in.

Standing next to me, Tanya soaked up the mix of shocked and half-hearted applause. I could tell she was holding her breath, like this was her big moment-the one she'd been waiting forever for.

She was the comeback queen, climbing up only to get knocked down again and again. But here she was, finally at the top. I could see the fire in her, the need to prove herself. That drive was exactly what I wanted-needed, actually. But only if I could control it. I wanted to push her until that fire burned too hot, until she'd take risks that'd play right into my hands.

"Let's hear from Ms. Twain," I announced, nudging her into the spotlight.

Tanya hesitated, nerves clear as day, but she wasn't stupid. She pulled herself together and gave a solid speech.

Once the ceremony wrapped up, I led her to the manager's office. Of course, I took the main seat, leaving her to stand. A few minutes ago, I'd let her have her little victory. Now, I was reminding her who really ran the show.

I was going to mess with her-build her up, then tear her down-until she hated me with everything she had.

"Tanya, the bar's all yours now," I said, leaning back. "Think you can handle it? If not, speak up-I'll find someone else."

No way she'd back out after that speech.

it

But if you're

about to get lectured. It was almost funny

"How you run the bar is your call. Just treat

eyebrows shot up. She clearly didn't expect me

work with someone, I go all in. Same as a relationship: trust completely, or don't trust at

at me then, like I was some kind of CEO handing out

it could be to

to be legal. If something shady happens, I'll take the

nodded quickly. "Got

make it official." I slid a contract across the

serious expression making it clear she

chilled, scrolling on my phone

pushed it

eyes but pressed her finger onto the ink

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