19. Avoiding

Jaxon

I hang up the phone with Max, my CFO. “Just hire whoever you think is best,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady. “We can’t afford to tank right now. Not with everything at stake.”

I lean back in my chair, rubbing my temples. My head’s spinning with numbers, reports, and the shitshow that is my life. Just when I think I can catch a break, the door swings open, and my mother walks in, wearing that look. You know the one.

“Hey, Mom.” I manage a tight smile.

“Jaxon,” she replies, voice bright, but her eyes have that calculating gleam. “How’s everything going?”

“Just peachy,” I mutter, barely making eye contact. “What were you doing getting dinner with Scarlett?”

She flops down in the chair opposite me, a small smile playing on her lips. “Oh, we were just catching up. You know how it is.”

“Yeah, well, I don’t want to hear about it.” I cross my arms, feeling the heat rising. “What’s the deal with you two?”

“She’s a good candidate to be your Luna.” Mom’s tone is all business now.

“S