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.”

tough for me, you know. Hogan’s

“Sorry.”

hung up, feeling utterly deflated, a

phone rang again. I checked nervously, only

took the phone and stepped into the hallway.

“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 a month. If things go well, I’m bringing your cousin over next year. Then

12:19

Chapter 34

together.”

palm as a sour sting

You don’t agree?”

said with a smile. “Things are bound to

up, I briskly entered Wallis‘ office and asked, “Where’s that bottle of red we

at me, concern

probably not sleeping well

on her.”

Hilary loved wines.

was a no–go, I had to

in hand, I showed

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

the decor had to be Hogan’s handiwork.

“Xaviera,

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

me. “Xaviera, don’t rush your drink; you’ll get

another glass, and smiled. “To drink with you

sensed something was off and asked, “Something