“Why?” I finally ask. “Why me specifically? Why not just hire someone else?”
“Because everyone else is second-best,” he says simply. “And I don’t accept second-best. Not for this.”
I look down at the paper in my hands, at the number that could change everything for me and Ella. Then I look out the window at the beach, at the life I’ve built here. Simple. Safe. Good.
But lonely.
And if I’m being honest with myself, a little bit boring.
Henry’s face flashes in my mind. The excitement in his eyes when he talked about Jumayah. The theories he never got to test.
Through the window, I can see the waves rolling in, steady and unchanging. Like me. And maybe that’s the problem. Maybe I’m ready for something to change.
“Okay,” I say, before I can second-guess myself any more. “I’ll take it.”
A grin stretches his face. “You won’t regret it.”
Here’s hoping those won’t be famous last words.
CHAPTER 3
GEORGIA
The private jet is… not what I expected.
I mean, I knew it would be nice. Rich people don’t fly commercial. But as I climb the stairs with Ella on my hip and Lois following behind me, I realize I’ve severely underestimated what “nice” means in Calvin Aarons’s world.
The interior is all cream leather and polished wood. The armchairs look like they belong in a living room, not an airplane. There’s soft lighting. Fresh flowers in a crystal vase secured to a side table. And a carpet so plush my feet sink into it.
“Holy mother of—” Lois starts, but catches herself, glancing at Ella. “—Moses.”
I bite back a smile and try to keep my expression neutral. I will not gawk. I will not act impressed. Men like Calvin Aarons are used to people being impressed by their money, and I refuse to give him the satisfaction.
“Ms. Halford, welcome aboard.” A flight attendant appears, immaculately dressed in a navy uniform. “I’m Alana. Can I take your bags?”
“Oh, that’s not necessary?—”
But she’s already lifting my rolling suitcase with a professional smile. “Please, make yourself comfortable. We have several seating options. The rear cabin has more space if you’d prefer that for your daughter.”
“Thank you,” I manage.
Calvin is already settled in one of the armchairs, laptop open, phone pressed to his ear. He gives us a brief nod but doesn’t interrupt his call.
Lois and I exchange a glance. She raises her eyebrows as if to sayWell, isn’t this something?
We make our way to the rear cabin, which turns out to be even more spacious. There’s a couch, more chairs, and a small area that looks like it could convert into a bedroom.
“Ba!” Ella squeals, pointing at everything with delight.
“Yes, baby. Very fancy,” I murmur, settling her on the couch.
Alana reappears. “Can I get you anything? Champagne? Wine? We have sparkling water, fresh juice, coffee, tea. I can also prepare a meal if you’re hungry. We have salmon, filet mignon, or a vegetarian pasta. For the little one, I can make something simple—perhaps some fruit and crackers to start?”
I stare at her. “Um… water would be great. And yes, some fruit for Ella, thank you.”
“Of course. And for you, ma’am?” She turns to Lois.
“Do you have tea? Earl Grey if you’ve got it.”
