Page 122 of Lilly

"We could if you'd stop working so much," I kid.

He chuckles. "Now you sound like Meredith."

"She's right, you know," I say, now being serious. "You put in too many hours, William. It's not good for you."

"It's what the job requires."

"Your father never worked that much. Hell, even I didn't work that much."

He smiles. "I'll consider cutting back."

"I could fill in for you again if you need it. If you'd like to take some time off, perhaps visit your mother and niece. Or just take a vacation."

"You'd really do that?"

"Of course. I'd be happy to. But not for too long. I find the office setting stifling and the daily schedule far too rigid. I've become accustomed to my flexible schedule and prefer the golf course to a desk."

He laughs. "You've become one of those laid-back California people."

"You should try it sometime. Maybe get a home out there."

We go to lunch at a nearby restaurant. I do enjoy spending time with William, but I purposely limit my visits to see him because of his position at the organization. I know they keep a close watch on him and I don't want to be under the same scrutiny.

After lunch, we drive back to his house and discuss the issue with Dean.

"I don't know what to tell you," William says. "He's basically already approved so his son is going to be a member no matter what. At this point, I think your only option is to make sure Lilly doesn't marry Reed."

"I understand that. I just wish there was another way. Is there a chance we could remove the part of the contract that includes Reed?"

"The contract can't be changed." William taps his fingers on the side table. "But if Dean never becomes a member, his son won't be either."

"Yes, but we've already concluded that Dean will be a member."

His eyes lock on mine. "Not if Dean is no longer alive."

I pause for a moment. "I suppose that's a possibility, although you know I don't do those things anymore."

"Then I'll do it. I'll arrange to have it done. You know I have the resources. I'll make sure it isn't traced back to either one of us."

"That's rather drastic, don't you think?"

"The man tried to kill your wife. And for all you know, he may try again."

"He won't. I made it very clear what would happen to him if he did."

"Maybe he thinks your threat is meaningless. Maybe he'll call your bluff."

"He has no need to. Rachel is no longer the target of his assignment."

William leans back in his chair. "Regardless, the fact remains that if Dean is no longer alive, his son goes free. Reed can continue his relationship with Lilly."

I consider the idea. It is tempting. And the old me, the younger me, would've done it without hesitation, especially after what Dean tried to do to Rachel. But now? Taking a life isn't so black and white.

"I'll think about it," I tell him.

"If you decide to go ahead with it, I could have it done within a day."

"I'll let you know."

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