There’s a general murmur of agreement. In the end, it’s unanimous; every single person votes to have Liam become the permanent CEO of Pemberley Almonds, even Joe Whittaker votes for him. He can probably see the writing on the wall and wants to stay on Liam’s good side. If that’s even possible after the stunt he pulled today. When the votes are finished, a crowd of well-wishers throng Liam. I stand back, patiently waiting for my chance to talk to him. Caroline taps me on the shoulder.
“You did it!” she says.
“Thanks to you. Also, I love this outfit.” I wave down my body. “You’re good at your job.”
“So are you. I read your book, and I have to say you totally captured Liam.”
“Thanks, though that’s still a bit of a sore subject. I never meant to hurt him.”
“I can tell. I read it so fast because I was totally shipping Lizzy and Ivan. You have to write a sequel where she ends up with him.”
“That’s . . . not a bad idea.”
Ms. Reynolds walks over to us, her sensible heels tapping on the wood floor. Being Reynolds, she doesn’t emote much. But I can tell she’s more than pleased by the half-smile that reaches her eyes. “Lettie, your ride’s here.”
“Already?” My eyes stray to Liam, surrounded by so many people. I don’t feel I have the right to interrupt. But after what I said to him in front of all the board, you’d think he’d have a moment for me. Perhaps he’s still angry. I turn to Caroline, “Do you need these clothes?”
“Consider them a Christmas gift.”
Reynolds takes quick strides, walking with me out of the building. “All your luggage has been packed in the Uber.” She’s been so nice to me, I assumed she was on my side. But the way she’s ushering me out has me wondering if maybe she disapproves of me. I mean, she has reason. “I have arranged to have your car delivered to your home in Iowa.”
“Thank you!” I give her the keys. During all of this, I hadn’t even thought of Gretta’s car.
“Do you have my address?” I ask.
“Yes, Liam gave it to me.” Perhaps she’s acting under his orders, andhewants to get rid of me, which also makes sense. He might be happy I saved his job. But that doesn’t mean he’s forgiven me. I not only risked his position but also the security and comfort of so many employees.
I drag my feet, glancing back every few minutes, expecting Liam to come running out of the shiny doors. But he doesn’t. Reynolds hands me my ticket. I slide into the back seat, and we’re off.
Not till I make it through airport security more than an hour later do I get a text from Liam.
Liam
I still have my job. Thanks to you
Lettie
You almost lost it. Thanks to me
I am so very sorry
Liam
I know. So am I.
Well, there’s that. Maybe he didn’t send me away. Or maybe he did and now regrets it. When I reach my gate, it’s time to board because—ooh la la, Reynolds bought me a first class ticket. I’ve never flown first class. I wonder idly if Liam has ever flown lower than first class. Before I can overthink it, I shoot him a text.
Lettie
Have you ever flown coach?
His rapid response is satisfying.
Liam
Maybe? When I was a kid. I’m not sure
Lettie
