Page 37 of Obsessed Heir

“I want what won’t come up in a regular background check,” I clarify. “She’s acting a little erratic, which is a cause for concern.”

“After the way the world has changed the last couple of years, you need to be careful,” he points out.

“Exactly.”

“We’re discreet and thorough,” he reminds me. “Give me an hour… Hmm, it might take me longer since she’s a world traveler.”

Some of the tension eases from my shoulders. If anyone can get their hands on the truth—however unsavory it might be—it’s Dante.

“Thanks.”

“Also,” he says, his tone changing back to casual. “People are keeping an eye on your company’s progress. If the results align with the projections, they’ll be beating down your door to invest.”

No pressure, right? But, then again, that’s exactly what I want. Wealthy investors ready to put down a chunk of money. I hope to grow this a ship or two at a time so I’m not in the game forever.

“Let me finish this trip and get an evaluation done,” I reply, glad I won’t be starting from scratch.

“I’ll make sure you have legitimate businessmen who can stand up to scrutiny,” he assures me.

I’ve been around long enough to know we’re all sharks. Just that some of us wear suits, while others don’t.

“Give me a couple of days, then we can talk.”

“You know where to find me.” With that, he ends the call.

I paid a hefty registration fee to be a part of his group. He said he could deliver on anything I needed, given enough time. What he’s provided so far has been invaluable in my decision-making.

I have no doubt he’ll come back with something, if there’s something to be found. Now all that’s left to do is wait. I may as well get dressed and head downstairs.

Holly’s probably regretting taking over the shift at the club for me. She might do better sitting with my mother tomorrow. That should keep her out of trouble.

Chapter Fourteen

Abigail

“Ican try moving around a little today,” Miss Opal suggests. “It doesn’t hurt as much.” She points her toes this way and that, likely moving her foot more than she should.

Has she not seen the size of her ankle? Never mind the dark spots stretching out from under the bandage.

“I’m not sure you’re ready,” I say, keeping a positive note in my voice. “Doctor Stein said the swelling would have to go down before you consider putting any weight on this ankle.”

Miss Opal lets out a resigned sigh. “Very well.” She holds out her feet for me to put on her slippers. “I really wish you’d found something to wear when you were shopping.”

Heat rushes to my cheeks as I’m reminded of the reason I couldn’t look around. Not when Barron was the primary reason I had to get out of there before I could buy anything. Admitting that would only lead to more questions I’d rather avoid.

“I’ll try again when we reach port,” I promise, hoping to reassure her.

“We need to find out what time we arrive so you’re ready. Though you may not find much, outside of touristy shops, in these little towns,” she warns. “They go to larger cities for their own needs.”

Anything would be better than paying the prices on board. I could spend my entire month’s salary on clothes and still not cover everything I need for the week.

“I know, but it’s worth a shot.” Straightening, I paste on a smile. “Ready for breakfast?”

“Yes, I’m famished,” Miss Opal declares as she steps down from the bed onto her good ankle and pivots to settle into the wheelchair. Of course she’ll be hungry, with the time difference. It’s midmorning at home, and she’s usually an early riser.

“Good. I heard noise in the living area, so your son may be waiting.” My chest feels hollow at the possibility of facing him again so soon. It’s bound to happen sooner or later if we’re under the same roof.

“Oh, we can’t have that.” She draws in a deep breath. “He always ends up in a mood if he has to wait. Sometimes, he’s so much like his father.”

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