“Yes.”I pointedly breathe heavily into the phone, letting my sister know she’s fraying my nerves.But, the truth is, while I want her out of my business, she’s right to ask.“If anything comes of this, I’ll give you a heads up.”
“With Alicia on it, you should be fine.”
“That’s what I hear.”Alicia is the older sister of one of Margot’s besties, and I swear she’s adored her for as long as I can remember.But, even without Margot’s connection, I would’ve heard of Alicia Morgan.She’s known as a fixer, and we share clientele.
“How are you doing?”I move into the living area and sink onto the couch, sitting where I will be certain to hear if the doorman buzzes.
“I’m fine.”
“And our parents?”
“Have you not spoken with them?”
There’s judgment in her tone, but I let my silence serve as answer.
“They’re good.In Greece at the moment.Staying with friends.”
“Dad’s really stepped away then?”I never thought he’d actually retire.He sure as hell didn’t show any sign of willingly walking away when he wanted me to take over.Of course, I never wanted to run the family business.But it’s annoying that now that he finally allowed Margot at the helm he’s truly stepped away.
“His vacations get longer.I’m a little worried about Mom and I think he is too.”
“What’s wrong with Mom?”
“Some odd symptoms here and there.The doctors say it’s stress.”
“Hence the regular visits to islands?”
“It’s my theory.”
“What symptoms—” I’m interrupted by the loud buzz.I set the intercom to the max level so I’d be sure to hear.
“What’s that?”
“Someone’s here.I need to run.But Mom?—”
“She’s fine.Don’t let it worry you.You go.I need to run too.”
“Isn’t it late there?”
“Yes, and I’m still in the office.I’m starving.I want to get out before the cafes close.”
“Go.I’ll call you tomorrow.”
“Yeah, I think I’ve heard that one before.”
“Bye, Margot.”
The line clicks, and I look at the phone, finding it odd she didn’t say goodbye.But then the buzzer sounds once more, and since I’m right in front of it, it’s particularly loud.
I press the button.“Yes.”
“Mr.d’Avricourt, there’s a Ms.Anderson here to see you.”
“Please send her up.”I lower the volume to its lowest setting on the speaker, then move to open the door and wait, watching the numbers on the display above the elevator.
The doors slide open, and there she is.
Her long blonde hair falls in relaxed waves, and she’s in a mid-length champagne skirt and heeled boots with a champagne blouse.The soft slide of her boots over marble carries through the entryway, each step measured but confident.
