Page 65 of Only the Wicked

Eighteen

Rhodes

The flight to D.C. takes less than an hour—barely enough time to process what I’m leaving behind in the Highlands. As the plane climbs above the mountains, I catch myself already missing the simplicity of the last few days.

If I find the time to get my pilot’s license, I could fly a short leg like this one. As it is, we’re in a small six-seater. ARGUS owns a more luxurious jet, but I let our executive team take it for a meeting in Europe this week.

The seats on each side of the aisle are comparable to a first-class seat, wide with plenty of legroom. The attendant, an accessory I added last minute when I realized I’d have company, is already seated up front with the pilot. Sydney fell asleep in her reclined seat within ten minutes of departure.

I can’t really blame Syd given I woke her in the middle of the night. There’s something about her that makes me feel fifteen years younger. Or maybe it’s the vacation. When Miles forced me out the door after my request to fire our long-time friend, sleep deprivation led me to agree. But, as usual, Miles has proven himself correct. I needed a change in scenery.

I thought I’d be itchy to jump back into things, but instead I’m resentful of the handful of meetings I have planned later on today during my vacation. Am I still annoyed with Alex’s pressure campaign? Absolutely. He’ll either get on board with our mission or he’ll exit. Even if he gets on board, we still need someone with more experience.

The temptation to check email is there, but I brush it aside. I’m not quite ready to dive back into it. Miles is right on this front. We hire the best. I need to trust the people we’ve placed in charge—everyone except Alex. We haven’t built a sustainable company if I can’t step away.

But before I check messages, I check in with Nana. I’d normally video call, but I’m in the air.

* * *

Me

On the way to D.C. Glad I got to see you.

* * *

Three dots instantly flicker. She’s always quick to respond.

* * *

Nana Libby

So good to see you sweetheart. Did you have a good vacation?

Me

I did

Nana Libby

I wish you didn’t spend it alone

* * *

I hesitate. It’s tempting to tell her, but there’s no need to open Pandora’s Box. Not yet. Though I find myself typing and deleting “Actually, Nana…” three times before settling on my response. Perhaps I’ll introduce Nana to Syd on my next video call.

* * *

Nana Libby

One day you’re going to find someone who gives you a reason to exist outside the office. You might believe this old lady is foolish but trust me on this one.

* * *

My finger hovers over the phone, torn between sending her a photo of a sleeping Sydney and wishing Nana a peaceful evening so I can read through my messages.

* * *

Nana Libby