Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 34

Thinking about the hard–earned five hundred thousand that finally hit our account, both of us fell into silence.

Wallis figured we had to start with Cecilia.

“Even King couldn’t dodge the pillow talk, right?” she exemplified. “One word from Cecilia is worth a thousand from us.”

Hearing that, I looked down, feeling kinda crappy inside.

This mess happened right under my nose; no one’s better suited to make this call than me.

Thinking about the project’s future, I dialed Cecilia’s number.

But no answer.

Wallis looked puzzled. “Probably didn’t see it. We’ll try again later.*

Spot on she was.

Come evening, Cecilia finally rang back. “Sorry, Xaviera. I was up the mountain with Hogan and left my phone at the hotel. What’s up?”

Turns out, while we were anxious as hell, those two were leisurely enjoying the snow.

I steadied myself and said, “Director Irwin, Candy and I have deeply reflected on yesterday’s incident. Could you forgive us this time?”

“Really?” Cecilia’s voice floated back, airy. “But from what I see on Facebook, Candy seems to be having a blast.”

Candy hadn’t shown up for work today either. What she was up to, I hadn’t paid much mind.

I sincerely said, “I’ll have her personally apologize to you, Director Irwin. And with Mr. Zade, I’d appreciate your help.”

a swift response from Cecilia. “Xaviera, it’s tough for me, you know. Hogan’s really ticked off

“Sorry.”

up, feeling utterly deflated,

rang again. I checked nervously,

and stepped into the

“What’s up, Auntie?”

Just some good news,” her worn voice tinged with joy. “Your uncle managed to find a security job in Rivertown through a connection. Rakes in over four hundred

12:19

Chapter 34

together.”

palm as a sour

You don’t

with a smile. “Things are bound to

up, I briskly entered Wallis‘ office and asked, “Where’s

red?” Wallis looked at me, concern etched on her face.

said, “Hilary’s probably

on her.”

Hilary loved wines.

was a no–go, I had to carve

in hand,

villa, nestled among mountains and water, reminding me of the retreat an ancient poet bought when he was forty–elegant, understated,

decor had to be Hogan’s handiwork.

“Xaviera, come in,

ground floor’s round table, I lifted the glass in my hand and downed the

rush

you is a pleasure. I’ll finish this one; you take your time.”

was off