It was the first time I’d ever received a gift from a man who wasn’t Jared. I didn’t know if it was true that if I let go of one tree, I might find a whole forest waiting for me.

I took the gift home, deciding to return the favor to Nathan the next day. The necklace looked expensive, and I couldn’t just accept it without giving something back.

If I didn’t want to end up with a messy love life, I needed to set things straight from the beginning. That way, when Hooked back, I wouldn’t feel regret or shame.

I used to buy gifts for Jared pretty often, including ties, lighters, razors, and even his underwear.

Guess I’ve gotten pretty good at picking out gifts for guys. Leaning against the elevator wall, I zoned out and had no idea what kind of gift I should get him.

A belt, a tie, or a razor was all way too suggestive, like I was trying to claim him or something.

That thought made me laugh. When it comes to love, push and pull is what one’s supposed to avoid, but somehow, the more tangled things get, the more addictive it becomes. Maybe that’s what makes love so irresistible.

I needed to pick something appropriate but not suggestive. I remembered him mentioning over dinner that he liked playing tennis.

On my phone, a few photos of Yvonne were sent by her. One showed her bent over, clipping her toenails; another had her in the bathroom brushing her teeth, grinning to show off the little gap where her baby tooth used to be.

There was also one where she was pouting, making a heart shape with her hands just like I do. Watching her grow and improve every day made me feel a lot calmer inside.

Sometimes being tough on her forced her to figure things out on her own. There were ups and downs, wins and losses, but that was just life.

The next morning, I rushed to the office for a meeting, only to find out that while I was on leave, some spicy rumors had been making the rounds.

Jared had gotten wasted, puked, and passed out. Amy had to rush him to the hospital and stay with him until midnight. Then Tracy and Sally showed up and kicked Amy out.

The next day, Amy stormed into the office and tore into Tracy’s old crew, which stirred up a whole mess of drama among the management.

Jared just got divorced, and then everyone was fighting over him; I couldn’t help but shake my head at how fast things changed.

I just took it all as a joke. I had a few insiders in the company, who were married, middle–aged women I’d won over with some pricey gifts. They’ve been loyal to me ever since.

When I arrived, one of them slipped in to spill the tea, shaking her head in disbelief. “Ms. Murphy, the single women in the office have lost their minds lately. They’re all dressing up every day, hoping to catch Mr. Holcomb’s eye.”

“I can’t really blame them. He’s rich and good–looking,” I replied with a faint smile, handing her a cup of coffee. “Keep an eye on things for me, will you?”

“Will do,” she said, taking a sip of coffee before heading out.

Not long after, Jared knocked and came in. He hadn’t shown up for the morning meeting, and it looked like he’d just arrived at the office.

He’d gotten a bit stronger lately, and honestly, there was just something about a guy looking a little stronger that made him even more attractive.

Jared just stood there in front of me, checking me out in silence.