“Of course.” He stood, smoothing his hands over my shoulders. “Call me if you need anything.” His eyes held some emotion that made me falter, and then it was gone. My head was so screwed up, I didn’t know what to think.
“Emerson, hey,” I said as Ben closed the door.
“Hey, Audrey. I’m so sorry about your dad.”
“You heard, huh? I guess that makes sense, seeing as you’re married to Officer Sexy.”
“Is there anything I can do?” she asked, not missing a beat.
Organize the funeral?I thought but didn’t say.Wind up his legal practice?I had a feeling only I could do that. So I settled on, “No, but thanks.”
“When are you coming to town? I hate that these are the circumstances, but I’m looking forward to seeing you.”
“Same,” I said, knowing it had been too long. “And I’m not sure yet. I only just found out.”
“Right. Look, I know Grant wanted to tell you himself, but…protocol and all.”
“Of course,” I said. “I understand.”
“Mommy!” Gwen called in the background. “Mom!” She was more insistent this time.
“Sorry, Audrey. I’ve gotta go. See you soon”
“Yeah.” My head spun. “See you soon.”
By the time we ended the call, I had about twenty new emails. I had so much to do, and now this on top of it all. The newest email was from Geoff.
From: [email protected]
Audrey,
Deepest condolences from the firm.Keep us posted from CA, and we’ll expect you at the hearing on January 4th.
G
I shook my head,trying to keep up with everything. I was annoyed with Ben for handling something that was my problem, but I was also grateful to have one less thing to deal with. I navigated to the interoffice messaging program and shot him an IM.
Me:You didn’t need to do that.
Ben:A simple thank you will suffice, Sunshine.
Me:OMG. Do not call me that.
Ben:Why not? You’re from Sunnyville? It fits.
Me:I’m leaving the chat now.
Me:Blocking you.
Despite my anger,I wanted to keep it light. He’d done me a favor, and I had to play the game. Interoffice politics were everything, and I needed Ben on my side. Especially since I’d be gone for a week, maybe more.
Ben:You could never. You love me.
I didn’t botherwith a response, instead standing and opening the door to my office. Susan’s attention snapped to me, photos of her family proudly displayed on her desk. My desk, however, was devoid of photos. I wondered if that would ever change, but I couldn’t see how. Not with my current lifestyle.
“Can you please clear my schedule for the next week and a book a flight to Sunnyville, California?”
