“Exactly, and that’s why I’m telling you now.”
I smile, and she shoots me an incredulous look.
“Who are you, and what have you done with Elijah Frazer?”
“Okay, okay,” I say, grabbing my jacket. “I’ve not been that bad.”
“No, you haven’t. But Elijah, it’s good to see you looking more relaxed.”
We move to the elevator in silence. I realise then, Iammore relaxed. Since my divorce, an enormous weight has been lifted from my shoulders. I’m no longer trapped. I can do what I want. Within reason. Maybe I need to think about that.
The pub is bustling. Todd has rented the whole place, which is filled with faces I recognise. Sales team, human resources, developers, testers. It appears that most of the company has turned out.
“The man of the hour,” Todd says, coming up and handing me a beer.
I take it and chink the top of my bottle to his.
A cheer goes up, and I smile.
“Speech,” someone shouts.
I move further into the room. Todd on my heels.
I hold up a hand.
“I’d like to thank each one of you for the work you’ve put in. Not only on this project, but on making Frazer Cyber Security what it is today. The company is nothing without you. The past few weeks have been stressful for everyone concerned. I appreciate every person here who has worked tirelessly to ensure our clients were safe. Thank you.”
I hold up my bottle and I’m joined by the rest of the staff.
I spend the next few hours mingling, talking to members of staff I’ve passed in the corridors but never spoken to.
I relax, letting the old me rise to the surface. The one who, at university, was surrounded by people and who enjoyed social situations. A man who could be himself.
“You being here,” Todd says close to my side. “It’s made a huge difference to the staff.”
I turn to him.
“I’ve enjoyed it,” I say truthfully. “Let me know when they’re happening. I’ll try to put in an appearance.”
Todd nods and smiles.
“I’ll hold you to that.”
It’s then I realise Todd has been carrying this side of my business. His sunny disposition, with his fair but firm businessmanner has kept the staff happy. Every team member tonight has sung his praises.
I look around and smile as a thought begins to formulate.
CHAPTER 39
ELIJAH
Imake my way outside, where Lawrence, one of the company drivers, is waiting.
My phone beeps, signalling a news item.
“Home, sir?”
“Please, Lawrence.”
