Chapter 22
Kira stared blanklyat the goings-on in the airport and tuned in to the warmth of Anthony’s hand on her back. She would miss that for the next month and a half. “I can’t believe I’m reallygoing.”
Anthony nodded. “You’re going to dogreat.”
“Right.” Marissa had boarded her plane over an hour ago, which gave Anthony and Kira a little more time to say goodbye to one another. She was grateful for everything he’d had done for her in the last few hours. He’d set up an emergency meeting with his attorney, Jed, and made sure everything Finny offered was put in writing, all the way down to the public apology in at least six different media sources. He’d stood upright and tall in the face of her ex, his confidence never wavering. He’d even taken the initiative to shake Monty’s hand, thank him and Finny for making things right, and wish them a safetrip.
Anthony Marino had said the words once—told Kira that he believed in her. But now he was putting that into action. Strong-as-titanium action. She couldn’t remember feeling soloved.
“Just a few more minutes …” He pressed a kiss to her head. “I’m going to miss you,Kira.”
She nodded. “I’m going to miss youtoo.”
“But I can’t wait to hear about everything.” He came to a stand, looped her bags around his shoulder, and took her hand. “C’mon,” he said. “We better get you on thatplane.”
* * *
Kira dida mental check of her list after boarding the jet. She’d called everyone in her scheduling book for the next forty-five days and either rescheduled or referred them to one of the backups Gramps had on his list. A few he trusted that were located in Duckdale Hollow. The ones she hadn’t been able to get a hold of, she’d passed on to her new tenant, Alexia. The talented artist had agreed to be her secretary while she was away. In exchange, Kira would waive her rent for the next twomonths.
Thank heavens she’d finished up with the senior pictures. She would have felt horrible for missing one of those, since they’d had their hearts set on the whole personalized graffitithing.
Luckily, Finny Shea, and Python (she’d have to get used to calling him that) had taken the front corner of the jet and allowed Kira to occupy the opposite corner in back. Forty-five days. Runways, hectic schedules, and time demands. Anthony had told Kira not to wish her time away, said that she needed to enjoy the experience as best she could. She’d try. But already Kira was looking forward to the day it’d all be over. Her name would be cleared, and then she’d be back with Anthony where shebelonged.
