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Her breathing changes, and I can picture her rolling her eyes. I know that look. Maggie has spent weeks directing it at me, usually just moments before completely ignoring my instructions.
“I already spoke with Ivy,” I tell her. “She informed me that Winston is still a criminal.”
Maggie lets out a small laugh. “That sounds about right.”
“I also have news for you,” I tell her.
“Should I be worried?”
“No.” I allow myself a small smile. “Black Tide recently completed a shipping contract for a local development group. During negotiations, I mentioned your shelter.”
Silence greets me. Then, “Alexei.”
“You wouldn’t accept money from me directly.”
“You know I wouldn't.”
“I’m aware.”
I hear the smile in her voice now. “Go on.”
“The owner visited the shelter website this afternoon. He and his wife lost a dog several years ago. They have agreed to make a substantial donation and adopt a dog.”
The line goes completely quiet.
“Maggie?”
“You're serious?”
“Yes.”
“Alexei...I don’t know what to say,” she breathes.
“I only made an introduction. The decision was theirs.”
She’s quiet for a second. “You really listen when I talk, don't you?”
The question surprises me. “You wouldn’t take money from me, so I found another solution.”
“Thank you.”
I hear the smile beneath her words. I allow myself to enjoy it before another call flashes across the screen from Roman.
“I need to take another call,” I tell her.
“More unexpected business?”
“Yes.”
“That sounds ominous.”
“It usually is.”
Her breathing stops for a fraction of time. “Be careful.”
I stare out at the city spread beneath the window. “Always.”
“You and I both know that's not true.”
