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“He’ll be fine.” Martin exhaled slowly. “I intended to take Emily with me to Rachel’s interview on Friday. But nothing went according to plan. Do you want some time off?”

“Yes, please,” she managed.I have to tell Casildo.

“I don’t blame you. Antonio raked me over the coals for the disrespect shown to you. Said he was of a mind to offer you a job himself. I hope you don’t accept, but I wouldn’t blame you if you did. We let you down.”

“Antonio hasn’t spoken to me.”

“The promotion’s yours, if you want it.”

“I appreciate the offer. Thank you. I need some time.”

If I accept, I can pay the increase in the mortgage.The relief was dizzying.

“Maybe you can call me on Friday and give me your decision?”

Beatriz couldn’t remember how she made it back to the apartment or the kitchen. She glanced at the oven clock. Midday.

How long have I been here?

Her body ached, her muscles screaming with the effort of responding to simple commands, like walk, undress, crawl into bed. She’d barely slept since Casildo had left. Missing him was the largest part, but waiting for Jackson’s next hit, to her or Casildo, had also kept her awake.

My boss was absent on Friday. Family emergency. Jackson’s lies uncovered. Antonio lodged formal complaint about Jackson. Jackson sacked. Effective immediately.

She pressedSendand headed for the bedroom.

I’m happy for you.

Casildo’s reply was fast, generous, but left no openings. Bea was crying when she climbed under the covers.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Cas typed a text, thenshook his head.Déjà vu.

Over the years, he’d sought Hunt out too many times to count. Cas hadn’t always been the one in trouble. Best friend, blood brother, so he’d ask to see Hunt privately if he had to. Hunt could decide how much he’d tell Anna. Probably everything.

I love Beatriz.