Running From Fate Read Online Free Page B

the circumstances I wouldn’t think that would be an issue.  I was acting as a concerned citizen and in the best interest of both California law and the environment.  Surely, he doesn’t have a leg to stand on?”
    The man across from her ran his hand through his bleached blond hair, in what was obviously a practiced move and adopted a pedantic, condescending tone of voice.  “Normally, I’m sure you would be right,” he said, “but.”  He held up a finger when she opened her mouth.  “The fact of the matter is that you did sign the agreement and Mr. Haines has some very high priced lawyers on his side.”
    “Ok, so I just need my own lawyer then.”  She looked at him pointedly.
    He examined his well-manicured nails.  “I’m afraid that I won’t be able to represent you.”
    “Well why not?” she demanded.  She crossed her arms and leaned back in her chair.
    “Now how do I put this?”  He paused and tilted his head, as if considering.  “It wouldn’t be good for my bottom line.”
    “I’ve got money,” Mira said.  Well, she still had some of the inheritance her parents had left her and a bit in savings.
    “It has nothing to do with money,” he assured her.
    Mira uncrossed her arms, some of her anger fleeing.  “They didn’t threaten you, did they?”
    He raised a sc ulpted eyebrow.  “Of course not,” he said.  “ Carter, Stevens & Weston wouldn’t lower themselves to do such a thing, but I have no wish to get on their bad side.  Especially, if I ever hope to gain any lucrative referrals from them.”
    Mira stood up and leaned over the desk.  “Why you greedy, spineless…”
    “If that’s all Ms. Anders,” he interrupted.  “I have work to do.”
    It took her the rest of the afternoon to find a lawyer who was willing to take her case.  She didn’t blame most of them because, unlike the first slimy man she had gone to see, they seemed to have better motives for refusing her.
    A few of them felt they didn’t have the pull, as it were , or the resources to go against Mr. Mitchell’s lawyers.  Several more did actually seem afraid of being blacklisted.  Finally, as the first rush of humanity began to trickle from the high towers and squat office buildings, she walked in the doors of Stanton & Jones.
    The lobby exuded quiet, understated elegance as did the middle aged receptionist in his simple, but obviously expensive grey suit.
    “We’re almost ready to close for the day,” he told her.  “Is there something I can help you with?”
    Mira smoothed her hair, hoping it was still in the neat bun she had put it in, but terribly afraid it looked more like a bird’s nest.  “Yes,” she said.  “I’d like to speak to someone.  Today if possible.”
    “That just won’t be possible.”  He glanced at a nearby computer screen.  “Although I can set you up with an appointment for early next month if that suits.   I’m afraid we’re all booked until then. ”  He offered her an apologetic smile and then looked at her more closely.  “Wait a minute,” he said as his eyes went wide.  “You’re Mira Anders.”
    “Yes.”
    “Wait right here.”  He pointed to an elegant conversation grouping as he picked up the phone.  “Someone will be right down to take you up.”
    Moments later that ‘someone’ came striding across the lobby in two inch heels and a classy skirt suit in bombshell red.  Despite the woman’s obvious age, as evidenced by her impeccably styled but graying hair, she pulled it off.
    Perhaps, Mira mused as she stood up and offered her hand , it was the attitude. 
    “Elizabeth Stanton,” the woman said.  She shook Mira’s hand and stepped back.
    “Mira Anders.”  So she would be dealing with one of the bosses it seemed.
    “Yes I know who you are. ”  Elizabeth turned and walked toward a bank of elevators, beckoning Mira to follow.  “Can I assume,” she said.  “That your visit here today has something to do with your former