Page 121 of Beautiful Revenge

“The lowest,” I agree.

I look out the window and watch the guests enjoying their vacations with no worries in the world. The shooting was brushed off as hunting gone wrong. The news quietly reported that the victim will make a full recovery. The world moved on, and so did the guests.

I’m jealous.

I want to enjoy every part of the Manor at Winslet, but I’m stuck in Devon’s suite. I wouldn’t mind any other day, but he’s not here, and I’m an anxious wreck about where he is, and what he’s doing.

Chrissie finally moves on. “So when will we know if you’ll have to share billions with the mystery guy? I need to know the rest of his story as much as I need someone else to take over working for your dad.”

“I’m not sure. I’ve emailed back and forth with him. Jett answered my first email fast. I apologized that I hadn’t seen any of his correspondence until now. I didn’t tell him why. There’s no reason to air the family problems if he isn’t my brother. Even if he is, I’m embarrassed to admit any of this has happened.”

“He mentioned life and death once. I want to know what’s up with that. The last thing we need is another drama queen to deal with,” she drawls.

“Are you seriously referring to me as a drama queen?” Ifshe keeps this up, I’ll have to start pacing too. “I told you about his medical problems.”

“You did. That’s concerning. He’s responsible for that sweet puppy and cat.” She exhales and finally steps down from her soapbox. “Okay, I’m over it. I just needed to vent.”

I smile when I think about the unwavering devotion of my best friend. “Have you forgotten how well I know you? Honestly, I’m surprised you came around this fast. You’ve earned another few days, at least.”

“I’ll cash in on that if shit hits the fan again. Or, if your dad fires me for not telling him about Jett Parker Cross. I can just see that name plastered across a New York Times bestseller. No offense, but if he is your brother, he lucked out with a way better name than you.”

“I can’t argue with that,” I say. “I found the top-rated lab for genetics in the country. It’s literally a swab. A test is being delivered to him. He’s anxious to get it done too. It usually takes a couple of days, but I paid the rush fee.”

“Good. For so many reasons, I can’t wait. You’re a living and breathing docudrama.”

“Tell me about it. As soon as I get the results, I’ll talk to Dad. Maybe he’ll be home by then.”

“Speaking of home,” Chrissie goes on. “His entire staff has been replaced since Janie had a hand in hiring everyone.”

“Thank you. She might have limited funds, but she also has wealthy friends. I have half a mind to let the PR department go whole hog and start putting out press releases about their upcoming divorce. We can let the media run from there. There’s nothing Janie hates more than public scrutiny. That might be the best way to flush her out.”

“That’s not a bad idea. Your dad is focused on the markets and day-to-day business. Do you want me to run that by him since it will be his dirty laundry being flown for the world to smell?”

“That’s a disgusting metaphor, but yes. If he agrees, let’s make that happen right away.”

For the first time in days, she sounds more like herself. I can actually hear a smile in her tone. “This is where I thrive. Thanks for throwing me this bone to remind me I’m a killer in my field.”

“Of course, you are. You were a mastermind at ditching Albert at the altar for maximum public humiliation timed perfectly with a kidnapping. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“Remember that since you’re hot and heavy with the British secret agent. He has contacts all over the world, but I doubt he’s as petty as I am.”

“You’re right,” I agree. “He values efficiency over pettiness. No one can fill that gap but you.”

“Damn straight. But I’ve got to go. Your dad wants to go over his first meeting with the board next week. I’m going to have to do my best to pretend I know nothing about his thirty-six-year-old secret baby.”

“You’re a skilled liar. I have faith. Seriously, though, I don’t know what I’d do without you. Thank you, Chrissie.”

“Right back at you. Just remember this when I ask to work for you from across the country. I’m not cut out for small-town life. We’ll just have to drink tequila over FaceTime.”

I figured as much. “I can do that. Though you don’t know what you’re missing. I’ll make you come for the Gooseberry Festival.”

“If you think you can win me over with sour fruit, then you don’t know me at all.” A heavy door shuts in the background. “I know you’re bored, but Daddy-O is waiting. I’ll call you later.”

“Give him a hug for me.”

“I am absolutelynotgiving your dad a hug. I have to draw the line somewhere.”

She hangs up without saying goodbye.