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“You really think he’s worth it?”
Her dad had been watching her.
She knew, but she couldn’t help herself. “Yes, I think he’s worth it.”
“He’s stood up for you, which I admire. But he’s not who I would’ve chosen for you.”
“I know, but my heart chose him. You can’t choose who you love.”
“There’s truth in that.”
Curious, she glanced sideways at him. He had a glum, resigned expression. It was like something else was bugging him, something outside of this.
“He’s a decent person,” she added quickly, “really, dad. He could have just taken off. There was no reason for him to come clean with you, except he’s a really good guy.”
He nodded. “He stepped up to the plate, and if you’re right about his reasons for being a hacker, it’s in the past.”
She looked at him, willing him to mean what he was saying. “You didn’t have the best start in life. You created your own path, created an empire.”
His expression softened. “I’m glad someone remembers.”
That amazed her. The others didn’t? “Of course I do. I loved hearing those stories. I’ve missed you, Dad.”
He reached out and squeezed her shoulder. “I’ve missed you too, Princess.”
The moment was poignant, and she felt horribly guilty about what she’d done.
“He wanted a fair share for you. That’s what made me listen.”
She nodded, sadly. That was her fault too. She looked forlornly at her dad.
“Whatever else you do,” he warned, “please don’t tell me he reminds you of me.”
Lara laughed. “He is rather old-fashioned at times, just like you.”
“What did I say?”
“Hey, you mentioned it. Seriously though, Draco is an intelligent, thoughtful guy. I don’t think he’ll go back in life, only forwards.”
“Time will tell, Lara, time will tell.”
She could do no more than nod in agreement, and hope.
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
Draco stared at the information screens on the wall in Compton Senior’s office, astonished to find himself back there.
He’d been ushered in by Janice. She’d left him there alone, waiting.
Another test?
Mesmerized by the shifting information on the screens, he stood there and studied it—looking for numeric patterns, finding sense. It fascinated him.
When the door opened and Compton walked in, he quickly straightened his tie. Janice was fast behind him, with a tray containing a pot of tea and fine china. When she set it down on Compton’s desk, Draco stared at in amazement.
“Sit down. Relax.” Compton pointed at the chair in front of his desk. Before he sat down he poured two cups of tea. “Do you take sugar?”
“No, thank you.”
