Page 75 of Pretty Heartache

“I did offer last time. At breakfast. I just left it open ended.”

I laugh. “You’re right.”

“I left it open last time for you to return, but an opportunity came up with a client that I think you would be best suited to handle.” He slides a blue folder across the desk.

I pick it up and open it, reading the first page before flipping through the other papers.

“PharmTec is a startup pharmaceutical company based in Connecticut. Right now, they’re manufacturing plant needs expansion, and I’ve decided to throw my name in the hat of those willing to take on investing in their goal.”

“Pharmaceutical?” I ask, giving him a confused expression. “We aren’t exactly experts in the medicinal field, Len.”

“We aren’t,” he agrees, nodding toward the paper. “But they’re main mission is to find a cure for cancer.”

I hold my breath and freeze. Sadness fills my brother’s usually hard eyes.

Finding a cure for cancer has incredible meaning to Lennon. After losing both his mom and sister-in-law to the disease, I understand why this means a lot to him.

“I guess you could say this endeavor is more personal than it is business,” he adds.

I clear my throat. “Okay.” I nod, closing my mouth and swallowing. I scan the paper again, reading over every single itemized objective and mission statements, along with their sales data from previous years, then I look back up at Lennon. “What do you need me to do?”

“I’d like you to go with me to check out the plant in New Haven.” He stands from his chair and looks out the window, his black suit a stark contrast to the city outside. He half-turns. “I’ve scheduled a meeting and tour with the CEO and founder. He’s going to explain what their next project is, and we’ll also get to see the laboratories.”

“I don’t know what to say.” I blink.

He shrugs. “You don’t have to say anything. I would just like my brother on this project with me.”

“Of course.” I shake off the weight of what this means. For years, my brother has worn a mask—one of strength, but also one of secrecy. Vulnerability isn’t exactly one of the words I would use to describe him, but I see it now.

A warmth spreads across my chest. My brother wouldn’t want me to be a part of this if he didn’t see value in me. If he didn’t believe I was in a better place.

“There’s a reason I want you on this job with me,” he adds.

I open my mouth to ask him what reason, but he answers me before I have the chance.

“I was harsh in forcing you to take a break months ago, but I’m glad I did.” He stuffs his hands into his pockets and faces me fully. “Whether it’s you renovating the house, or if it has todo with Adeline Mayfield staying with you, you’ve changed. It’s good to see.”

“Thanks,” I croak around the lump in my throat. For once, I feel seen. Lennon doesn’t even know the whole truth about why I went to prison, but he’s given me the benefit of the doubt. His confidence in me, regardless, makes life not feel so hopeless.

“Those copies are for you to keep.” He nods toward the folder in my hand. “Look them over and make sure you get a good grasp on the numbers and products. We aren’t scheduled to head out there for a few weeks.”

“Sounds good.” I stand from my chair with more pride and hope than when I walked in here. My life finally feels like it’s on track, heading in the right direction. I button the jacket to my suit and tuck the folder under my arm. Excitement bubbles in my chest at the thought of telling Adeline about this trip and me going back to work.

I’m thankful the visit to Connecticut isn’t for another few weeks, though. That gives me more time to beef up security at the house for Adeline when I’m not there. I can’t take the chance of Lachlan or Soren showing up.

I’m almost out of my brother’s office when he stops me. I stop and turn, looking over my shoulder.

“You seem happier, Micah.” He smiles. “It’s good to see you smile for once.”

“You know…” I laugh. “I said the same about you at one point in time.”

“What do you mean?” His smile falls, immediately disappearing. His eyebrows pull together. “I smile. I’ve always smiled.”

“Sure, Lennon.” I slap my hand on the doorframe. “I’ll see you in New Haven.”

TWENTY

I hold my breath and tug on the front door, only briefly getting a glance of my reflection in the sparkling clean glass door, but in a flash, it’s gone.

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