Page 79 of Duty and Desire

My eyes were gritty, and I cringed to recall every word I’d just uttered, but it was too late now.

I seem to be saying that a lot lately.

Franz came in, his face haggard. “That didn’t sound good toward the end.”

“You were listening?”

His gaze narrowed. “I think everyone on this floor heardyou.”

I thrust the phone into his hand. “Thank you. I won’t need that again.”

“And if she calls back? Or emails?”

A stark reminder that I was the second person to see my mail.

Damn protocols.

I was about to tell him not to bother me if she did, but I stopped short. My stomach was in knots, and all I could hear was that hitch in her breathing.

How could I do that to her?

I needed to leave that particular door open.

I swallowed. “You can pass on any messages.”

Emotional pain tormented me, feelings of self-loathing filled me, but it wasn’t right to lay all my hurt and anguish on her doorstep. She didn’t deserve that.

“Daniela Risch called to say she’ll be here in the morning.”

“Great,” I murmured. “I’ll look forward to that.”

Franz stifled a snort.

I picked up my cup of tea and grimaced. It was cold.

“Want me to bring you some more?”

I shook my head. I didn’t want any more reminders. I already had a head full of memories, enough to last a lifetime.

What flitted through my brain fired a sharp pain into my chest.

I miss you, Gio.

That wasn’t going away anytime soon either.

Chapter Twenty-Six

May 23

Bora-Bora

Gio

By the time Aulani arrived, my head was spinning.

“Do you know how many flights I need to get to Eisenland? How many hours it will take to get there?”

She huffed. “No, but I’m sure you’re going to tell me. AndthenI’ll tell you he’s worth every mile, every blessed minute.” She frowned. “Will you be coming back?”

---