Chapter 22 - Sebastian's Request
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Ethan’s temporary office at the construction site was a chaotic mess of blueprints, coffee cups, and material samples.
He was deeply focused on a structural diagram when there was a tentative knock on the open door.
Ethan looked up and froze.
Sebastian stood in the doorway, wearing a tailored suit that looked entirely out of place in the dusty environment.
“Hello, Ethan,” Sebastian said softly.
Ethan slowly set his pencil down.
“Sebastian.”
It had been years since they had last spoken face-to-face.
Sebastian stepped into the small room, looking around at the impressive architectural drawings pinned to the walls.
“You’ve done incredible work here,” Sebastian said, genuine admiration in his voice. “The design is flawless. It’s making waves in the city's architectural community.”
“Thank you,” Ethan replied neutrally. “What can I do for you?”
Sebastian sighed, looking deeply uncomfortable but determined.
“I recently bought out my senior partners. I own the firm completely now. I want to build a new commercial division, and I want you to head it.”
Ethan stared at him, surprised by the sheer audacity of the offer.
“You want to hire me.”
“I want to work with my son,” Sebastian corrected gently. “I want to make up for the time I lost when I was too afraid of Charles to stand up for you.”
Ethan leaned back in his chair, looking at the man who had once abandoned him to Victoria’s cruelty.
“I appreciate the offer, Sebastian,” Ethan said, his voice entirely calm. “I really do. But I already have a firm.”
Sebastian looked confused.
“You’re an independent contractor here.”
“No,” Ethan shook his head. “I’m the lead architect for the Thomas Bennett Foundation. We’re opening three more clinics next year. I design spaces for people who need them, not commercial high-rises.”
Sebastian’s shoulders slumped slightly.
“I understand.”
“It’s not out of anger,” Ethan added, realizing he meant it. “I don't hate you anymore, Sebastian. But my loyalty, and my career, are with the man who actually raised me.”
Sebastian nodded slowly, a sad smile touching his lips.
“Arthur is a good man. He deserves your loyalty.”
“He does.”
Sebastian turned to leave, stopping at the door.
“Can I at least take you to lunch sometime? Just to talk?”
Ethan considered it.
May you like
“Lunch would be fine. But let me clear my schedule first.”
It was a boundary, strong and clear, and Ethan had never felt more powerful.
