“Do you really think Grant has what it takes?”
Kate thought for a moment.
“Honestly, yes, I do. He had the wherewithal to make good connections in the military. It was enough to learn different languages and different people. Sales is networking and problem solving. At the very least, he can win some defense-contract money.”
“Maybe we should start him lower in the company.”
“Like what? The print room?” She snorted. “I’m honestly not worried.” Her phone buzzed. She wanted Walter to leave so she could deal with this massive problem that she had thought was dead and buried. What could Alan want from her?
Kate waved at Walter and Grant as they climbed into the waiting car.
“Be ready bright and early, Grant,” she called after him. “I already told Stefan to wake you up at three in the morning.”
Once she was sure the two men were well on their way back to the Holbrook estate, Kate pulled out her phone and opened up the message thread from Alan.
I need to see you.
Come see me tonight, or I will tell your precious Holbrook what happened between us.
I’m sure everyone would be very interested, now that you’re all over the news.
She looked around in a panic, feeling as if she were backed into a corner. Walter would kill her if she let her personal life ruin his son’s career. She texted Alan back, hands shaking.
Where?
She could almost see his mocking smile.
I’m glad you came to your senses.
Meet me at the pavilion on the canal.
Her stomach churning, Kate pulled her old bike out of the shed. As quietly as she could, she wheeled it down the drive then set off.
After a quick ride, she saw a dark figure on a bench overlooking the canal.
“Kate.”
His voice was the same. She didn’t let it pull and control her as she had a year and a half ago.
“Professor Von Breuer,” she said.
“Come now, Kate. We know each other better than that.”
He was decent looking but at least fifteen years older than her.
She crossed her arms. “What do you want?”
“I miss you.”
“No, you don’t.”
“We have unfinished business.” He stepped up to her and grabbed her by the shoulders then forced her to him, kissing her.
“Stop it!” Kate yelled, trying to push him off.
He shook her. “This is what I want. This and money.”
“I don’t have any money!” she said, pushing away from her old professor.
