Page 23 of Say It Isn't So

“Shut up and let’s get out of here. You can walk me out.” I batted my lashes, playing along as I stood up, in desperate need of fresh air in my lungs.

Following suit, Noah stood. “All right, but we’re getting beers when you get back.” Then he added, “On you.”

“Aren’t you the lawyer?”

“Fine, on me. If I’m even alive by the time you get back. Crystal’s mother has it out for me and now you’re throwing me right into the lion’s den.”

Laughing at the imagery, we walked to the door. “I’m going to leave and you’re going to go home to your family.”And remember how lucky you are to have them, I almost added, but didn’t.

My life was pretty amazing, I reminded myself, instead. I was earning great money, living in a great place, and had great friends (yes, Noah included).

I didn’t know why I was thinking this way.

It was all that talk of Rina.

I blamed Noah.

Chapter Seven

Bianca

Bianca:Is it possible they made the departure lounge at JFK even nicer?

Allegra:Good morning, sunshine! What happened? Why didn’t you wake us up before you left?

Perla:I’m not upset about it. I needed the extra sleep. You guys kept me up too late last night.

Bianca:Do all married women become grandmas?

Maria:I’m going to ignore that and address the JFK comment. Now, I love their lounges! I can’t wait until I join you just to sit in it.

Allegra:Don’t worry, Bibi, I’m shaking my head at her. She’s pretending not to see me, but I am.

Maria:Whatever. Have a good flight!

Perla:Yeah, we love you!

Allegra:Send pictures.

Bianca:Someone make sure to check in on Dad while I’m away, please.

Maria:On it. Dom is taking him out to dinner tonight.

Bianca:Like on a date?

Allegra: Nah, Maria would be too jealous.

Maria:Bye!

Shaking my head, I looked around and was about to pull out my laptop to go over my notes when I had to do a double take.

In walked a man.

Not just any man, though.

I knew this man.

At least I was pretty sure I did. He looked different. Older, more handsome, more sophisticated.

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