Page 68 of Night and Day

The next few were from Jazz.

I’ve been trying to catch you all day but you’re mysteriously busy and not at your desk.

I WILL find you. And you will spill. You can’t hide from me.

The final one was a group message from Allie, sent to Jazz, Sierra, and me.

Cocktails tonight. Tessa’s place. No excuses.

I bit my lip. They were going to ply me with alcohol and interrogate me. I’d worry about that later. Stuffing my phone in my pocket, I sat down in the armchair and studied Ro again. He looked so tense. “Your calls didn’t go well?”

“No.” He pinched the bridge of his nose. “There are some problems with the new acquisition.”

I leaned forward. “Where is it? Or is that top-secret?”

“The Maldives.”

“But you already have a Langston Maldives.”

“I’m planning a second one. More exclusive, with overwater villas, Michelin-starred dining, ultra-exclusive amenities.”

I lifted the coffee plunger and poured coffee for him. I mixed in some creamer. “Sounds like a dream.”

“That’s the plan. Someone recently reminded me that we are in the business of providing experiences and memories.” He lifted the coffee and sipped. I saw him relax, lean back in the chair. His gaze drifted to the view.

I poured my tea.

“You missed lunch.” I nudged a plate of pastries toward him.

“How did you know?”

“You’re tired and irritable. Your blood sugar must be low.”

He nibbled at a pastry, closing his eyes to enjoy the flavor. I liked watching him eat.

I unzipped my pouch on my belt, pulled out some pills, and handed them over. “Ibuprofen for the headache.”

His lips curled. “I’m famous for my poker face in negotiations, and here you are, reading me like an open book.” He swallowed the pills and chased them down with a sip of coffee. “Thanks to you and your magic pouch.” He cradled his coffee cup. “I see why this is one of your favorite spots.”

“It’s all cozy comfort. You should see it in winter.” An uncomfortable sensation caught in my ribs. Except he wouldn’t be here in winter.

“You’re right to expand the outside terrace. The outdoor seating would be extremely popular.” He paused. “We’re going to need a new chef.”

Instant denial welled inside me, but I beat it back. I thought it through logically. “Chef Harvey is nearing retirement. He’s been here a long time, and I know his wife, Janet, hates the winters.”

Ro nodded.

“You’re right.” I sighed. Change didn’t all have to be bad. “I think fresh blood will be good.”

“Excellent. I have someone in mind. If I can lure him here.”

I sipped my tea. “No more calls from your father today?”

“No, thank God. Hopefully, Tiffany is keeping him busy.”

“Trinity.”

“Whatever.”