Page 154 of The Bonus

“Not in the least bit funny.”

“Actually, it is.”

“Yeah well…” I turn my attention out the window. “If I die, tell the police who poisoned me.”

“Sure thing.”

“I’ll be moving out here on the weekend.”

“Permanently?”

“Thursday through to Monday morning each week.”

“Oh.” He continues to drive.

“You have your own house on the property I’ve rented. Although I understand if you don’t want to be here. You can stay in New York, I mean…let’s face it, this place is a fucking dump.”

“I’ll come.” His eyes flick up to meet mine. “I kind of like it here.” He turns the corner into the airport. “And besides, I go where you go, remember?”

I give him a lopsided smile and nod in a silent thank you.

Mark is the only person who goes wherever I go, whenever that is.

At a time in my life where everything is unknown, his steadfast presence is a calming force.

“How did it go last night, with Grace I mean?” he asks.

“Well…” I run my hand over my stubble as I think. “She told me she hates me.”

“Okay.” He drives as he listens. “And the kids?”

“We tell them who I am on the weekend.”

“How does it feel to have two children?”

I twist my lips. “Terrifying.”

“So…what’s on today, boss?” He smiles as we pull up at the airport.

“First stop. My mother.”

The plane touches down onto the tarmac and I immediately dial Frank’s number.

“Hello, Mr. Ferrara.”

“Where is my mother?”

“She’s at a charity lunch for the Ferrara Institute at Town Hall.”

I clench my jaw, annoyed. “What time does that finish?”

“It goes well into the evening, sir.”

Fuck’s sake.

“Fine, call me tomorrow when she’s up and about.”

“Yes, sir.”

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