Chapter 28: Ellie

The morning sun was barely cresting the horizon when I made my way to meet Preston Caldwell. Part of me regretted not telling Alex about this meeting, but another, more stubborn part of me wanted to handle Preston on my own. After all, we had a history, and I wasn't about to let him think he could bulldoze over Mayer Financial – or me.

I chose The Willow Inn for our meeting, a quaint but elegant spot in town known for its privacy and excellent coffee. It seemed like a neutral ground, far from the high-rise intensity of the business world, yet it held an air of sophistication.

As I entered, I spotted Preston immediately. He was sitting in a corner booth, his posture relaxed yet exuding a sense of control that was all too familiar. He looked up as I approached, a smug smile playing on his lips, as if he was already savoring some unseen victory.

"Ellie Mayer, as punctual as ever," he greeted, standing up briefly before gesturing for me to take a seat opposite him.