“No.” Daniel’s voice sharpened. “I’m telling you I already have it when you let go long enough to notice.”
I looked at him. He didn't look away.
“Six weeks modified alert,” I said. “You run eastern patrol and contractor review with Sarah.”
His chin lifted a fraction. “I’m not cleared for contractor review.”
“You are now.”
He nodded once. No smile. No thanks. Better.
My laptop chimed from the desk. A new message slid across the screen.Mara Khaya Security Contract Renewal Discussion.The sender was Mara Khaya’s reserve manager, who had a gift for being in J’burg whenever the reserve required actual managing. Daniel’s gaze flicked to it and away.
“Popular man,” he said.
“Get out.”
“That your formal recommendation?”
“Daniel.”
He opened the door. “Sleep before you answer anyone with money.”
I waited until he left before I opened the email. The message was short. Professional. Respectful. A review meeting within the month. Renewal terms. Expanded authority. Regional security oversight across two sister properties. Budget increase for training, access control, and anti-poaching coordination. Three-year structure possible, if I wanted it.
If I wanted it.
I read the first half twice, closed the email, and rested my palm on the desk beside the laptop. The wood felt warm where the sun touched it.
A regional role would make sense. Better title. Better budget. Better reach. More reason to stay.
My phone vibrated against the desk.
SOFIA:mom wants to know if u r in town through sun. says she will clear my schedule if u r
My thumb stopped above the screen. A hornbill called from somewhere near the staff quarters. The sound came sharp and ridiculous through the window.
SOFIA:her words not mine. i am very busy and important
I sat back in the chair. A dull ache moved under the gauze. I had forgotten about it. That seemed optimistic and medically stupid.
ME:I’m in town through Sunday.
ME:Tell her thank you.
The reply came fast.
SOFIA:wow no dramatic pause? growth dad
ME:I can still create one if needed.
SOFIA:please do not. also can we do something just us? mom and eric are being normal and supportive and gross
ME:Yes.
SOFIA:u don’t know what i’m asking yet
ME:Still yes.
