Page 23 of Filthy Professor

I grinned. “You’re sending me to Egypt?”

He nodded. “This story has the potential to be huge. We’re going to sell so many copies of this thing. I got the go-ahead from the organizer, and now I just need it from you. You would leave on Wednesday, meet the team—who arrive tomorrow—and dive into it all with them.”

My chest heaved. “I can’t believe this. I’ve always wanted to go.”

“I know, and you’ve proven to me that you’re ready. I can trust you to give me a great story,” he said, leaning forward in his chair. “So, what do you say, Kat?”

“I say hell yes! And thank you so much for this opportunity. I will not let you down, Byron.” My mind went to Harrison, who still hadn’t replied. Was he really holding a grudge without letting me explain? Either way, I was going to Egypt and needed a plan, and I knew just the person to help me. When I got into my car after lunch, I pulled out my phone.

Me: I need you to come over tonight.

Emma: Can do! I have something to tell you, but it can’t wait! Krysta is sending me to Graceland!

Me: When?

Emma: Later this month!

Me: That’s amazing! I’m going to Egypt in a couple days!

Emma: WTF? Really? Our bosses are the best! See you tonight, sis!

I turned my phone over in my hand. So Harrison was leaving tomorrow and was still ghosting me? What a shit. Frowning, I realized I didn’t know if Byron meant our time or Cairo time. He was going to send me my itinerary tonight, so I guess I’d find out soon. My phone buzzed, and my breath caught as the person I’d been waiting for an answer from finally did.

Harrison: Kat, I’m sorry. I was so pissed about the article, but I just saw the new one go up. I’m sorry for doubting you, but I needed time. And then they moved up the trip, which I realize you know. I’m about to get on the plane, but I would love to see you when I’m back.

The knot in my chest loosened after reading his words. I debated telling him I was coming but decided against it. What a surprise this would be to show up for the holiday weekend. Besides, he probably shut his phone off right after sending the text.

After making my way home, I started packing for my trip. I still couldn’t believe it. And I was sure Emma’s trip to Graceland would be legendary. I grabbed my phone, an idea forming as I checked Ashton Olsson’s schedule. He was due to return to Graceland the week my sister would be there, and there were still tickets left. Dad’s looking out for us, I thought with a smile. I quickly ordered two tickets for her as I heard a knock on the door. Throwing it open, I saw Emma’s grinning face as she held up a bottle of peanut-butter whiskey. “Seems like it’s time to celebrate!”

I laughed, taking it from her. “Damn straight it is. I can’t believe you finally get to see Graceland!”

“And you’re going to Egypt! This is to cover Harrison’s dig, I’m guessing?”

I nodded and crossed to my kitchen island to pour us shots. “Yup. Byron is finally giving me a huge on-location story.”

“Does Harrison know? Has that dumbass even responded to your texts yet?” she asked, downing her shot.

I grinned and shot back my own.

Emma pointed a finger at me. “He did! What did he say?”

“He apologized and wants to see me when he’s back.”

She raised an eyebrow. “And then you told him you’re coming?”

I shook my head. “He was literally getting on the plane. I figure I’ll surprise him.”

Emma smirked, pouring us each another shot. “Of course. So you’re just going to show up at the dig site, camera and notepad in hand?”

“More or less.”

“Maybe get your story before the two of you fuck your brains out this time. Have that locked down.” She winked, downing her shot.

Shaking my head, I took another shot too. “No promises. It’s a multi-day project, and if you think I can go that long without jumping his bones, you are mistaken.”

She laughed. “Make-up sex is a solid reason.”

We spent the rest of the evening together, and I surprised her with the tickets to Ashton’s show.

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