Page 19 of King of Justice

“Thank you. So… does she have an overseas number?”

“Overseas?”

“She mentioned going to France over the holidays.”

“Right. Unfortunately, she couldn’t get a flight out. You know how it is.”

“I see. So… she’s in America.”

“New York. But maybe if you tell me what this is in reference to, I can help?”

“Well, it’s about the McFadden case.”

“Oh.” She paused. “I’m sorry. I’m not handling that one.”

“I figured. Would you please give me her number?”

“Uh—” she hesitated.

“I won’t bother her. Just a text to clarify one of the points in her draft. I would’ve emailed, but many people don’t check their work inbox during the holidays.”

She huffed. “You’re right about that.”

“Help me out, Zoey. For Ryan McFadden’s sake.”

“I really shouldn’t be doing this. So, please promise me that it will be for your ears only.”

“I completely understand.”

Sophie’s words whirred in my head; “When was the last time a successful, famous attorney didn’t get what he wanted?”

Well, dear Sophie… you are right here in the city without any effort on my side. I would dare assume that the universe was making amends about Christmas.

I couldn’t put my finger on what it was exactly, but I was excited about the prospect of seeing her again. I programmed the number Zoey gave me on my phone and got up, going over to the dressing room to change.

As I undressed and put on my workout clothes, I contemplated whether or not I should call Sophie right away. I knew I was stalling while I strutted into the gym upstairs and got on the treadmill, starting with a slow walk as I increased the incline. I then upped the speed, gradually getting into the grind of a fast walk.

Call her, my mind urged me. What’s the worst that could happen?

She could reject me.

So? You’ve been rejected before.

By a married woman.

You’re secure enough. You can handle it.

But what for?

The chance to feel the way you did with her once again. Wouldn’t that be worth it?

“Hello?” her voice entered my ears through the buds as I continued to march, my eyes gazing upon the city.

I smiled. “I can see your house from here.”

“Excuse me?!”

“It’s a joke… Hi! It’s Nate.”

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