Page 26 of Redemption

The waitress brought the check, and Sloan and I both grabbed for it.

I narrowed my eyes at her, trying to claim it for myself. “What do you think you’re doing?”

“I’ve got it.” She tugged.

I growled and removed the check from her hand. “I’ve got it.”

“Fine,” she huffed. “But only if you let me buy next time.” She smirked.

Sloan was different than I’d expected. More outspoken or something. Or maybe she was just tired. It was three in the morning.

“There will be no next time,” I said. “After this, you’re going to go home and pretend this whole conversation, this whole evening, never happened.”

“So, you want me to lie to my best friend and your sister.”

God, I hated hearing her say that. But yes, that was exactly what I was asking.

“I—” I dragged a hand over my head. “I want you to give me some time.”

She seemed to consider it then said, “I know what it’s like to want to hide something from your siblings.”

I wondered what she meant by that because her tone certainly indicated something darker. My curiosity was piqued.

“And I know,” she continued, “what it’s like to be on the receiving end of a sibling’s misguided attempt to ‘protect’ you.” She gave me a meaningful look. “So, I will give you time, but you need to tell Greer.”

“I’ll consider it.” That was the best I could do for now.

She stood. “Thank you for the pancakes and the honesty.”

I smiled, standing as well. “Thank you for listening.”

“Anytime.” She patted my shoulder, and for the first time in months, it felt as if a weight had been lifted.

“We’ll be starting our descent into Miami shortly,” the captain announced over the intercom.

I returned my attention to my laptop, reviewing Sloan’s file once more. I scrutinized the threats for new clues, combing through her contacts in search of answers. I opened the file on her boyfriend—Edward Burton, heir to Burton Banking and future Duke of Torrington.

I rubbed at my chest, seeking to soothe the ache there. Knowing Sloan had moved on and seeing proof of it were two different things.

I wasn’t sure she could’ve chosen anyone more different from me. His family had an official website. A crest. A ducal manor. Edward was wealthy. Titled. He easily fit into her world.

I studied the articles and pictures of Edward and Sloan at various events. They looked perfect together, and though it pained me to admit it, I was glad she’d found happiness. Even if it was with someone else.

I was right to let her go.

I stood and stretched, ready to be off this damn plane. It felt too small for the two of us—fucking claustrophobic.

“Can I get you anything, Jackson?” Tabitha asked when I exited the restroom near the galley. She worked for the Hartwell Agency—a bespoke recruitment service that placed nannies, jet crew, and other household staff with wealthy clients around the world. The Crawfords always requested her when they flew. I’d interacted with her a number of times, and she was always polite and discreet. She kept to herself.

“I’m good, thanks. How have you been?”

“Good.” She smiled. “Busy.”

“With flying or the farm?”

“Both. But mostly the farm.”

I shoved my hands into my pockets. “I don’t know how you find time for it all.”

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