“I don’t give a rat’s ass who you think you are or the fact you believe you know your job. The simple truth is that you are fucking clueless, stupid. Now, get the hell out of my office!” Camden Dane glared at the man and knew his blood pressure had increased, his heart rate soaring. He didn’t give a fuck whether he’d insulted his employee or not. He was sick and tired of people taking advantage of Rush Enterprises and of his usual good nature.

Blinking, the man took a step back and shook his head. “I used to enjoy working for this company until you took over. Have a nice day, Mr. Dane. I’m certain you will.” Storming out, he slammed the door, the hard thud reverberating.

Mitchell Rush waited for a solid ten seconds before exhaling. “Whew. You were a little rough on Jim, don’t you think?”

Camden shot him a nasty look before grabbing the file on his desk, shoving the thick folder aside. “Bullshit! Jim Brooks is a useless employee. Did you know that I caught him sleeping at his desk the other day? Tell me if that’s not disrespectful.” He rubbed his eyes and paced the floor, trying his best to calm his thumping heart.

“And did you know that Jim’s wife is in the hospital? How do I know this? Because I did the rounds with some new doctors at the cancer hospital, you know, the one I’m on the Board of Directors? I happened to run into Jim at his wife’s bedside. She’s dying of cancer, Camden. She has maybe three months to live.”

The news hit him hard. Clenching his fist, he swallowed back a lump of bile.

“I think that gives him a damn good excuse.” When Camden said nothing, Mitchell huffed. “What in the hell has gotten into you lately? You’re angry all the time and I’ve had complaints about the way you’ve handled various employees. Now, I can see the stories weren’t painted incorrectly.”

“I’m doing all I can.”

“Yeah? Well, that’s not enough. Jesus Christ.”

The words echoed in the air. Camden finally looked at his best friend and wanted to explain why his moods had been all over the place but in truth, he had no explanation. None. All the soul searching, and all the time spent alone had proven inconsequential. “I’m sorry about Jim’s wife. I had no idea.”

“No! Of course, you didn’t because you never look beyond your needs,” Mitchell snapped then groaned. “I know you’re under a lot of pressure. Hell, we all are. The workload has increased, you have the Federal Government breathing down your neck given the possible new offshore rig and the Board of Directors is none too happy with the quarterly results, but goddamn. Take a break. Go on a vacation. Go get fucked. Do something to eradicate the nasty side of you.”

Camden huffed then looked into his eyes. “Yeah, I know. I’m worried that we’re going to have to lay off employees.”

“At the rate you’re going, you won’t need to. I can guarantee you that Jim is on the phone right now, accepting the position that I know was offered to him. We can’t afford to lose another technician, not of his caliber.”

What in the hell was he supposed to say? Rush Enterprises was top heavy, but all the various reports indicated everyone was working at the top of their game. Well, with a few exceptions. They needed oil. Lots of rigs producing copious amounts of oil. “Look, I’m not trying to be an asshole. I just…”

“Well, you are,” Mitchell interrupted. “You need to figure out what is wrong and fix it and soon.”

Hearing a knock on the door, Camden had to fight another snarl. “What?”

Zach Goodman stuck his head inside, a single eyebrow raised. “Did someone piss in your Wheaties this morning?”

“Don’t mind him. He’s just having a nervous breakdown,” Mitchell commented and walked toward the window.

“Uh-huh. Well, bad timing considering the Board Meeting is in five minutes.” Walking further inside, Zach looked from one man to the other. “Did I miss something significant?”

“Nothing. You missed nothing.” Camden looked down at the spreadsheet on his computer screen. Being the company attorney, Zach certainly knew the various competitors continued to breathe down their necks. There was even talk of a new consortium taking over the El Paso area, purposely pushing the Steele sight off the map. Or at least they were working damn hard to do so.

“Right. So, I’m just arm candy today?” Zach teased. He looked over his shoulder as he walked closer. “Whatever is going on, squelch it. We must have the appearance with the Board that everything is fine. The official grand opening of the new building is next week. We need to show excitement about the possibilities.”

“Whatever they might be,” Camden said under his breath.

Mitchell extended an exaggerated exhale. “Let’s get this over with. I have a damn wedding to plan.”

“An old married guy,” Zach teased. “I can’t believe you’re actually going through with it.”

“You say that to Danielle and she’ll kick your ass.” Mitchell grinned.

The tension remained palpable.

The knock on the door was followed by a slow opening of the door. “Mr. Dane?”

Camden wanted to lash out for the interruption. God, he was pathetic. Just his assistant and one very capable woman. “Yes, Sandy? What is it?”

“There’s a reporter here and she’s asking for you,” Sandy half whispered, her eyes darting from man to man.

“A reporter?” Mitchell huffed. “Why?”

Camden shot him a look. He’d received two phone calls from a rather tenacious female asking for ten minutes of his time. Her insistence that he needed to speak with her had pushed him to the very edge. “She’s here?”

“How do you know it’s a she?” Zach asked as he tipped his head.

“A couple calls. Tawny something?” Camden avoided his gaze.

Sandy nodded. “Yes. She said the fact you’re avoiding her doesn’t help out the situation.”

“Fuck,” Camden muttered under his breath.

“What’s this about?” Mitchell asked.

“I have no idea.” Camden lied. “Tell her that unfortunately I don’t have time but that she can make an appointment.”

Hesitating, Sandy cleared her throat. “I don’t think she’ll go away that easily.”

“Then call security and have her thrown out!” The snap was loud enough that his poor assistant jumped.

“Whoa,” Zach whispered.

“Yes, sir. I can do that, sir.” Sandy closed the door after issuing a slight moan.

“Damn it.” Camden shook his head. This was a shit for day.

Zach walked closer. “You need to tell us something, buddy?”

“Just a reporter bugging me about the new oil rig. No doubt she thinks the story will make her career.”

“Okay then. We need to get going.”

Yeah. And he had no doubt he was going to have to face this Tawny chick sooner versus later. Perhaps his entire life was going to be exposed.

“Are we at least ready with the forecast?” Zach asked.

“Shouldn’t I be asking you that question?” Camden demanded.

“I’m not the accountant, Cam. I’m just your low life attorney who has managed to keep you out of harm’s way and out of the Press for the last few months.” Zach shook his head. “You are out of sorts.”

Camden grabbed a set of files and headed for the door. “Let’s just get this over with.” He didn’t wait for them to rebuke anything else or for them to follow. He knew exactly what was going to happen. More of the same. The Board hadn’t been happy for months and why should they be? Their stock hadn’t recouped after the last fiasco and their public image was less than stellar. Even the new building had garnered more criticism than good will. No one seemed happy with what they were doing, least of all him.

He stood outside the conference room door, calming his nerves and his anger. The old saying, ‘don’t let them see you sweat’ came to mind. Plastering on a smile, he opened the door. Every single man and the two women gave him a cautionary scowl, as if he was about to give additional bad news. Maybe he’d let Mitchell handle this one since his bad mood seemed to be a downer. “Ladies and gentlemen. I hope you’re doing well.”

Mitchell came into the room followed by Zach. He gave Camden a beseeching expression before moving to sit beside him.

A show of force. What a good thought. As Camden sat down, he was almost grateful that Zach took the lead, explaining the laws regarding the offshore rig and the company’s plans and target dates. He realized his mind was wandering, moving to anything and everything else but business.

While he was thrilled for Mitchell and his beautiful fiancée, their upcoming wedding was just another reminder that he had no one in his life. Sure, he hadn’t thought about romance or a relationship of any kind since taking over as CEO, but as of late, his dreams had been filled with thoughts of Sarah. Mitchell’s sister had once been the love of his life. Even though the loss to cancer had been years before, he’d never fully recovered. He’d finally accepted during a drunken stupor that he’d boxed his emotions.

Now, the padlock was rusty, threatening to crumble along with dragging everything else in his life straight to Hell. Including his sanity. He realized he was sweating profusely, beads popping along his hairline, staining his underarms. After wiping the top of his mouth, he forced his mind back to the present. Mitchell was right. He needed to get control. The how, he had no clue.

“I think we’re on track. The designs for the rig have been approved by the government and we’re waiting to hear about funding.” Zach’s tone of voice was full of eager excitement.

“And, I think we’ll be ready to start construction on the project within four months. Don’t you think I’m about right, Camden?” Mitchell tipped his head in Camden’s direction.

“What?” Camden heard the statement but had no particular comment.

“That we’re going to be able to start on the project in a couple of months,” Mitchell further encouraged.

Camden nodded and as he looked into the eyes of several of the Board members, the anger resurfaced, driving him to the point of having difficulty breathing. “You know what? Who cares?”

“What?”

“What did he say?”

The murmurs were fast and furious.

Mitchell kicked him under the table and gripped his arm. “I think what Camden means to say is—”

“You don’t have to put words into my mouth, Mitchell,” Camden snorted. “I meant exactly that. What do any of us care about the new offshore rig? We’re just here to get by, day to day and we’re all hoping the stock soars and the competition won’t eat us alive.” Climbing to his feet, he leaned over the expansive marble table. “Honestly? I think our days are numbered. Have a nice day.” He grabbed the files and walked out of the room and oddly enough, he felt more empowered than he had in well over a year.

Striding into his office, he was surprised he was whistling as he grabbed his keys, tossing the files onto the desk. Tonight, he was taking a break.

He left the office without anyone trying to stop him yet the moment he jumped into his car, his cell phone rang. Glancing at the screen, he’d wondered who would call him first, Mitchell or Zach. Mitchell won the toss. He pressed the button, turning off his phone and started the engine. You bet he was going to have more than a couple drinks tonight.

Camden sat in his car, tapping his fingers on the steering wheel. He’d recently purchased the older Camaro, a smart red baby that he’d found on the internet housing an engine that could blow away almost any newer model. Even Mitchell didn’t know. He snorted at the thought. Mitchell would no doubt say he was having a mid-life crisis. Purchasing a sports car. Going to a sleazy bar to consider a one-night stand. And excessive drinking. Yeah, he was running on all cylinders.

You’re a loser. You’re a liar.

The ugly voice lingered inside his head, creating a serious of nasty visions. He couldn’t run away from the truth any longer. Nightmares had plagued him for a solid two months, swirling images of the past, of truths he’d refused to face, secrets that haunted his every move.

And he was sick inside.

The reporter had called again, expecting that Camden would make time to see her. When Hell froze over. His head ached, more from the secrets threatening to explode than anything else. He couldn’t do this any longer. Lie to his friends? Lie to Mitchell in particular? A deep laugh penetrated the dense space. If only he’d come clean before. There was no way to right the wrongs, fix the broken man inside. He was lost.

He glared out the window at the neon sign, the flashing turquoise blue lights indicating a damn good time. He’d been here once before, drinking alone until the last call. He was in the mood for company tonight and from what he could tell, he’d have a few choices. The woman didn’t have to be beautiful, just someone he could talk to.

And fuck.

Disgust settled into the pit of his stomach, but he hadn’t been with a woman in almost two years. Two freaking years. Because you don’t deserve a moment of happiness. Fuck the angry little voice. He was going to have a damn good time. Grabbing the keys, he ventured onto the street, shoving the wad into his pocket. When he walked inside, a couple of the women sitting at the bar glanced in his direction, even one with some interest. He found an open spot at the bar and within seconds had ordered a beer with tequila on the side. Might as well start off right.

No one bothered him as he finished the first round, moving to the second. He was content sitting alone, watching whatever game was on the shitty overhead television. This was his quiet time, reflection into what he was doing with his life. He had to laugh to himself. He had no freaking clue. He’d been thrilled to accept the position of CEO, but he’d come to terms with the fact he was a much better Vice President.

Then again, maybe he was a better rancher. He loved his ranch, his horses and the entire experience, but he hadn’t ridden in months. Months. There’d been no time given the deadlines. The new building and the legal issues. The concept of the offshore rig and working with the various government officials, including OSHA and the oceanographers that had been assigned to the project. He was in over his head without so much as the thought of a life raft. Maybe he should turn the reins back over to Mitchell. The man seemed to have his shit together. Then again, Danielle had helped smooth the man’s rough edges.

If only he had someone in his life. Yeah, truth be told, he hadn’t bothered to look, but he was no longer certain there was a single woman alive who could tolerate his moods or his dark needs. The thought remained daunting, a haunting that never allowed him to sleep the night through.

“Looking for company?”

The tone of the woman’s voice was melodic, sensual and as he looked in her direction, he was pleasantly surprised at her appearance. The majority of the women in the joint were what he’d consider rode hard and put away wet. Wasn’t that a nice sentiment. “Depends on who is asking.”

“A tough man. I like that.” She held out her hand. “Margaret Collins.”

“Beautiful name for a beautiful lady.”

She laughed as he shook her hand. “My grandmother’s name. Go figure. Why couldn’t my mother find a sexy name like Brandy or Alexandra?” She leaned against the bar. “I haven’t seen you here before.”

“Just stopping by for a drink or two,” Camden said and gazed down the length of her. Long legs and a thin waist, voluptuous breasts and a killer dress, hugging her curves in just the right way. “Would you like to join me?” The handshake was firm. Interesting.

“I believe I would.” Easing onto the stool next to him, she slid her purse on top of the bar and turned in his direction. “And you are?”

“Camden Dane.”

“Well, Camden Dane. I don’t want to drink alone,” she purred.

He glanced at his almost empty shot of tequila and held up his glass. “Bartender, please give this lovely lady anything her heart desires and I’ll have another.” He noticed the obvious glare coming from the bartender and rolled his eyes. He could handle his liquor.

“So, what do you do, Camden?”

“I’m in oil.”

“Oil. Sounds fascinating,” Margaret said as she leaned in closer.

“Boring as fuck if you want to know the truth.” The statement brought a chuckle. “Really is.”

“Then why do you do it?”

“Money. Isn’t that the obvious answer? Money and security.” Sounded like some damn movie line. Camden polished off his drink and slid the glass across the bar. The liquor was going down way too easily.

“Money isn’t everything. I’ve learned that the hard way.” Margaret sighed and crossed her legs. “I prefer enjoying what I do.”

“And what do you do?”

“Let’s just say that I work with various businesses, making certain they know what they’re doing.”

The answer gave him a smile. They didn’t need to know each other’s story. They were simply here to have a good time. “Good for you.”

As the drinks were brought and they began to talk, Camden realized she was an excellent listener, homing in on everything he said, her eyes never leaving his. After the next round came, he was relaxed, even in a much better mood.

“I like you, Camden. Quite a bit.” She eased off the stool and winked. “I’ll be right back. Just need to freshen up.”

“Yeah, of course.” He watched her walk toward the back, her hips swaying back and forth and damn if his cock wasn’t aching. He fiddled with his glass and pounded back the shot before sliding off the stool. There was nothing wrong with a taste now. Grinning, he tried to be nonchalant as he moved through the crowd. When he reached the darkened hall, he debated before slipping inside the ladies’ room.

There was no one else inside and he patiently waited, folding his arms and leaning against the counter until the stall door opened.

Margaret seemed surprised, her eyes opening wide. “What are you doing in here?”

“I thought we could have a little alone time.” He tipped his head, giving her a seductive smile.

“I don’t think we should do this.” A slight smile crossed her face.

“But you’re a bad girl. Aren’t you?”

Exhaling, she allowed her hand to slide down her neck to the cleft of her breasts. “Me? A bad girl?”

“Yes, you.” Inching closer, he inhaled and had to admit, her perfume was intoxicating, creating a thrumming in his already stiff cock.

“I’m a very good girl,” she mewed and licked her lips.

Camden closed the distance, cupping her face, gently rubbing his thumb across her cheek. “And what are you good at?”

She rubbed her hand down his arm. “Everything.”

Capturing her mouth, he allowed the kiss to be gentle at first, savoring the flavor of the combined tequila. When he thrust his tongue past her lips, all bets were off. His hunger burst through the surface and he wrapped his arm around her, yanking her to the heat of his body.

She moaned into the kiss, her body undulating, her pelvis grinding against his.

The kiss became passionate, almost savage as he French kissed her, his tongue darting, exploring, entwining with hers. Grunting, he eased both hands down to the hem of her dress, riding the material up.

Margaret wiggled again, one hand moving on top of his.

He continued the crawl until he was able to cup her naked ass. The feel of the G-string in between her ass cheeks was a definite turn on. The woman was kinky. Just the way he liked them.

She managed to slip her hand between them, rubbing her fingers back and forth across his crotch.

Electric current shot through every muscle in his body and he was on fire, almost tense, his left leg shaking. He broke the kiss and nipped her bottom lip before growling and rubbing his lips across her cheek to her neck. “Do you know what bad girls need?”

“Mmm… Why don’t you tell me?”

Camden’s mind was filled with wicked ideas, kinky thoughts and he wanted nothing more than to let go, to have a fantasy fulfilled in the dirty bathroom. Easing back, he narrowed his eyes before taking her arm and pushing her waist against the counter. “A hard spanking.”

“What?”

Crack! Pop!

“What are you doing?” Margaret demanded.

“Spanking you. That’s exactly what you need.”

Smack! Slap!

She gripped the counter, her face pinched, her mouth going slack. “I don’t...”

Whack! Pop!

“Yes, you do.” Grinning, he peppered her ass with hard smacks, hissing when the door opened, and two women walked inside. “Get out!” He heard the tone of his voice, the demanding, nasty baritone, but he didn’t give a shit.

“Camden, I…” Margaret whispered.

“Jerk off!” One of the woman snarked as she backed out.

He laughed and pressed his hand on the small of her back. “Stay in position.”

Crack! Slap!

“Camden. No.” Shifting, she managed to take a side step away, turning around and adjusting her dress. “I like you but I’m not into pain.”

“All women need a hard spanking.” Was he slurring his words? Camden blinked several times and ran his hand through his hair.

Margaret held up both hands. “No, some of us don’t. In fact,” she said as she smoothed down her hair, “some women prefer to be the aggressor. I enjoyed tonight, but let’s just go back and talk. Okay?”

“Talk?” He lunged forged, moving to within an inch of her.

She nodded, her smile remaining, her eyes darting back and forth. “Yes. Talk. I have the distinct feeling you need to.”

Snorting, he gave her a harsh glare. How dare she assume what he needed. “I don’t want to talk. I want more.”

Placing her hand on the door, she shook her head. “That’s fine. I think I should be going.”

“What? We were just getting started,” Camden insisted, but he knew he’d crossed the line.

The moment she opened the door, a man stepped just inside. “Is there a problem, miss?”

“No problem. I was just leaving. Nice to meet you, Camden.” Margaret moved around the larger man without giving him another look.

“Buddy. We don’t want any trouble in here. You got it?”

Camden laughed. “Trouble? I’m a damn paying customer.”

Snarling, the man pointed to the hallway. “I think it’s time for you to leave.”

“I haven’t finished my drink.”

“Yes. You. Have. Now, get out or I’ll call the cops.”

Incensed, Camden shot the man the bird. “Fine. I’ll get out.” He’d crossed so many lines he wasn’t certain where he was going with this. He half expected the bouncer to drag him outside and beat the shit out of him. Keeping his head low, he walked out into the crowd, cognizant the same two women were glaring in his direction. He moved back to the bar and the bartender shook his head, yanking the bottle of beer.

“Leave.” The bouncer’s voice was just behind him.

“Fine. Just freaking fine.” Camden backed away and walked outside. Margaret was nowhere to be seen. As he walked then stumbled to his car, he knew he had to get control of himself. This shit wasn’t going to fly anymore.

Making a promise to himself, he slipped inside and started the engine. Maybe taking a week off was a good idea. He could figure out if he wanted to do this shit any longer. Resigned, he eased away from the curb. For some reason he wasn’t angry, just sad. Bitter. He hated what he’d become. As he wiped away a single tear, he decided to grab his phone. Mitchell would certainly be a damn good ear.

The second he looked back up, he realized he’d shot through a red light. As several horns beeped, he slammed on the brakes, skidding to the left and right. Everything around him slowed down as the Camaro went into a hard spin. Around. And around. And…

Bam!

“Yes, I’m Mr. Dane’s attorney.” Zach stood in the background, holding out his credentials.

Camden leaned against the cell wall. His heart continued to hurt like a son of a bitch, the scrapes and bruises the least of his worries.

The officer gave Zach a once over before nodding and unlocking the cell. “He’s all yours, Mr. Goodman. You’re lucky the judge was in a good mood.”

Zach remained just outside, his expression bland. “Do you have any idea what I had to promise that judge? Any at all? I hate pulling a damn favor. And you’re damn lucky to be alive.”

“Yeah, I know.” Every muscle in his body aching, he limped toward the door. “Thank you for bailing me out.”

“I have nothing to say to you right now. Nothing.” Zach headed for the main door, waiting as the officer unlocked.

Camden trailed behind him, making the stop at the desk, waiting as the attendant grabbed an envelope, doling out his meager belongings. “Does Mitchell know?”

“He does, but so far we’ve been able to keep this out of the press. We’ll see how long that lasts.”

He grabbed his watch, snapping the clasp and shoving his wallet into his back pocket.

“Did they take you to the hospital?”

“I refused,” Camden half whispered.

“Of course, you did. Let’s get out of here.” Zach guided him to the exit. “Wait. Let me make certain I wasn’t followed.”

To think that any reporter would give a shit about his DUI wasn’t something he’d thought of until now. If Tawny Smith got wind of this, he could only imagine her piece in the next Dallas Times edition. He was shaking, adrenaline pumping and was surprised he hadn’t thrown up.

“Come on. Let’s get you home. I guess.” Zach grumbled as they walked out into the parking lot. The moment they were behind closed doors, he let Camden have it. “Of all the stupid ass things you could have done! What the fuck is wrong with you? Drinking and driving? That’s not like you. That’s not like anyone with a conscience.”

“I said I’m sorry. I was dealing with some shit,” Camden insisted.

“Then you should have kept your sorry ass at home.” He jammed the key into the ignition and huffed. “I don’t know what’s going on with you, but I doubt I can do anything with this shit. First time offenders don’t count for anything any longer. Do you hear what I’m saying? I have no more favor cards to play. I repeat. Do you at all hear what I’m saying?”

“Loud and clear.” Camden shrunk back into the leather, clenching both fists. They remained quiet as Zach drove away from the precinct. He gazed out the window, watching the scenery, unblinking for a full minute. There needed to be a change in his life and there were few choices.

“What is wrong? What? At least you can confide in a friend.”

Wringing his hands, he glared out the window. “I’m not who you think I am.”

Zach exhaled and grumbled under his breath. “You can say that again.”

“You don’t understand.” The words, the admittance was on the tip of his tongue. Do it. Do it! If he did, his friendship was all but destroyed.

“Then enlighten me.”

The bile in Camden’s throat was thick. “I just…”

“Oh, for the love of Christ. Just sleep this off. Or get some help. Take a vacation.”

He shoved a knuckle into his mouth, as if the gesture would hold back the dam threatening to break. If he had any courage, he’d call Mitchell. No, he wasn’t going to destroy the man’s life.

Fifteen minutes later, Zach pulled down the long driveway leading to Camden’s ranch. When he spoke, his words were laced with concern. “I’m worried about you and so is Mitchell. You haven’t been yourself for two months, maybe longer.”

“I know.”

“You seem to know everything but you’re going to take some damn advice.” Zach continued driving, his hands clenched around the steering wheel.

Camden closed his eyes until he felt the car slowing. When he opened his eyes, he’d never been so cold in his life. “You had to bring Mitchell here.”

“You know what? I did. You actually have a couple people who give a damn whether you’re dead or alive.” Zach shoved the gear into park. “And you’re going to listen.”

He waited in the car until Zach was already inside his own house. Then he slammed his hand on the dashboard. “Fuck!” Breathing in and out, he had no other choice than to go inside. He struggled to get out of the car and his feet remained heavy as he walked up the stairs and inside. Shoving his hands in to his pockets, he headed for the living room.

Mitchell turned to face him and shook his head. “You look like shit.”

“Thanks. Appreciate it,” Camden whispered. Why was he having difficulty looking into his best friend’s eyes? You know. You know! Anger boiled within him as well as the same intense sadness derailing his entire life.

“You could have been killed or murdered someone else. Do you get that?” Mitchell continued.

“I know. I’m not an idiot.” Camden couldn’t look the man in the eyes.

“Yes, you fucking are.” Mitchell paced the room.

“Let’s all calm down,” Zach suggested. “He’s alive and other than the death of one bright red Camaro, everyone is okay.”

Hearing about his car didn’t surprise him but reality settled in, creating another wave of nausea. “I didn’t use good judgment.”

“You didn’t use any judgment!” Mitchell snapped then dropped his head. “Fighting with the employees, leaving the Board meeting and now this. I don’t understand.”

The quiet was biting and tears welled up in Camden’s eyes. “I don’t know who I am any longer.”

“That doesn’t surprise me!”

Zach glared at Mitchell. “Let him talk.”

“Whatever,” Mitchell huffed, waving him off.

Camden had thought about his decision long before the car accident or the explosion at the office. The changes in him during the last few months had been brutal, the pressure slowly killing him. If he couldn’t confess, then he was going to have to avail himself of the situation. “I’ve made a decision and one I hope you both can understand.” Yes, this was the right thing to do.

But for whom?

Zach looked at Mitchell and lifted his eyebrows. “Do we want to know?”

Mitchell held his tongue, but his face held intolerance.

“I’m dragging you down, as friends and as the man in charge of Rush Enterprises. That’s not something that can happen any longer. The company is very important to me,” Camden started and had to bite his fist, trying to push away his anger and his tears. “I know you might not think so, but I’m serious. I love what I do, but I’m no longer effective, not right now.”

“Okay, so what are you saying?” This time, Mitchell’s voice was soft, nurturing.

Camden held his breath, calming his nerves. “I’m saying that as of today, I’m relinquishing my position as CEO of Rush Enterprises.”

“What?” Zach pushed, blinking several times.

“Yes. This is the right thing to do. In fact, I’m leaving the company altogether, at least for an extended period of time.” Camden could feel a weight ripped from his shoulders. He could regroup and figure out how to destroy the demons.

“You’re serious,” Mitchell whispered.

“Very.” Camden gave a half smile.

“We weren’t trying to push you out, buddy. I hope you know that,” Zach offered as he walked closer, his eyes darting back and forth.

Camden inched closer. “I know. This is something I have to do.”

Mitchell rubbed his mouth. “What are you going to do?”

He thought about the question and hadn’t really planned that far ahead, but whatever he did, he was going to get away from Dallas, one way or the other. “I have absolutely no idea, but whatever it is, I hope it can keep me alive.”

And so, the secret would remain buried…