Page 147

“I should go.”

Ross nods, but he does not move aside immediately.

Then he says, “I’ll see you during the Whitcombe negotiations.”

I look at him.

“Why?”

The word comes out sharper than I intend. Ross's expression does not change.

“I reviewed the file,” he says.

“I’ll be involved in the remaining approvals.”

My stomach tightens.

“I thought collection administration and counsel were handling it?”

“They are.”

“Then why do you need to be involved?”

“Because the Trust ultimately has to approve the deaccession,” Ross says.

“I’m part of that process.”

Of course he is.

I should have considered it.

I considered every other possibility.

Just not this one.

“I’m only here for two weeks,” I say.

“The matter is straightforward, and Helena’s team has been extremely efficient.”

“I know.”

“So there shouldn’t be much left requiring your attention.”

Ross looks at me steadily.

“I’ll make time.”

The answer is quiet.

That makes it worse.

I hold his gaze.

“I’m sure you’re very busy?”

“I am.”

There is no hesitation.