Page 97 of The Photograph

My grip hardens on the steering wheel. “How did you get this number?”

More cackles. “Well, I have my ways.”

Don’t have time for whatever shit she’s up to.“What do you want, Vanessa?”

“Just catching up with an old friend. I’m in town for a few days and I was wondering if we could have dinner before I leave.”

We were never friends.“How does your husband feel about that?”

She sighs loud. That same sound she used to make when I had to work late, so I could give her whatever expensive bauble, shoes, or clothes she wanted.

“Oh, Philip won’t mind, I’ll tell you all about it when we meet.”

There it is.

My mind on Aelin, I agree to meet her on Tuesday for dinner, disconnect, and call Cal.

“Yo, brother.”

“Just got a call from Vanessa. I’m meeting her on Tuesday.”

“Vanessa, Vanessa?”

“Yep, the one and only. She needs something and I want to know what it is.”

“On it. How’s Aelin?”

I clench my jaw. “She’s fine. Why are you asking?”

“No reason. I’ll call you back.”

“Thanks, bro.”

Twenty minutes later, Cal gives me the lowdown, and I clench my teeth.

****

At 8:00 AM. the next day, I knock on Aelin’s door. It’s Sunday, she’s going to the market. I’ll take her for lunch, we’ll talk then I’ll find a bed—

Cara opens the door and tightens the belt of her bathrobe. “Gabe. What are you doing here so early?”

“I’m here to pick up Aelin to go to the craft market, can you tell her I’m here, please?”

She sweeps her hair out of her face. “Come in.” I follow her in as she ambles to the kitchen while covering a yawn. “Aelin’s not here.”

“Where is she?”

Heading straight for the coffee machine, she says, “Today’s the donors’ appreciation ceremony at the Other Rainbow and she left a couple of hours ago to help them set up.”

I dip my chin. “Thanks Cara, I’ll let myself out.”

As I turn on my heels, she steps closer. “At noon, there’s a lunch for the donors and supporters of the Rainbow. Do you want to be my guest today?”

What?Aelin’s sister chuckles before pouring herself a giant mug of coffee. She blows on the steaming mug. “Don’t make it weird. Aelin asked me to do it after you made this huge donation, but I didn’t think you’d be interested.”

I shove my fists in my pockets. “Why wouldn’t I be?”

She takes a mouthful of her coffee. “Because the only reason you made this donation is to get into Aelin’s good graces.” Before I reply, she raises her palm. “I’m not judging. Any donation will be money well spent. I just thought it’d give you a chance to learn what your millions will provide.”

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