As I do, Delores launches into a story about her trip to the Hamptons, and I nod along, offering the occasional laugh or comment.
But my mind's already drifting.
Dad. Octavian. The Morrígans.
The threats.
I pull myself back, focusing on Delores as she shifts topics.
"So," she says, reaching into her handbag. "I wanted to give you this in person."
She slides an envelope across the table.
I glance down at it, then back up at her.
"Delores—"
"Open it," she says, her smile turning smug.
Ugh, she has me do this every time.
Inside are two checks.
A three-million-dollar one for the inner-city initiative, which she'll get thanked for profusely at our next gala, and another for one million dollars from her personal foundation.
That one's because I cleared up her little zoning-permit favor into a clean receipt. She gets to build her luxury hotel. I get one million for our private accounts, or should I say my account.
Daddy would've taken twenty percent.
Callum told me to keep it all.
Score one for big brother finally realizing I do more than pose for photos.
"This is incredibly generous," I say, even though the fees had already been arranged.
Those are the things you do in our world. Negotiate, and then when it comes due, act surprised.
"You earned it," she says, leaning back. "The work you do, Keira. It's inspiring. And I know how hard it is to navigate all this." She gestures vaguely. "The scrutiny. The expectations. The city officials."
I fold the checks carefully, tucking them back into the envelope and into my bag.
"Thank you," I say. "This will make a real difference."
She reaches across the table, squeezing my hand.
"I know you'll do great things with it," she says and looks at her watch. "Okay, I've got to run. Call my office, let's do lunch soon."
"Yes, absolutely," I say as she gets up.
As she leaves, the waiter comes over.
"Anything else?"
"No," I say, and he puts the bill on the table.
Of fucking course.
I step outside into the crisp Boston air and breathe in deeply. Well, I'm free for at least a few hours before a gala meeting.
