Page 60 of Crude Heir

“Plan on two for the trip,” I reply to Addler.

“Would you be good to go in an hour and a half?”

Glancing toward the bag at my feet, I’m reminded I’ll need clothes for tomorrow, also. “Yeah, that gives me time to pack a change of clothes.”

“You remember that private airport out toward Katy?”

“Yeah, I can find it.” That’s a lot of movement going on in very little time. “Thanks.”

“Think nothing of it, see you in a while.”

We hang up and I turn to find a worried expression on Nicole’s face. “You okay?”

She starts to fidget in place. “I’ve never been on a plane,” she says with a nervous smile.

Another reminder of our different lives. Was this because of cost, or were her parents trying to keep her from getting caught in issues with TSA?

“We’ll be all right,” I assure her. “Though private flights are nothing like flying commercial.”

“I’m not sure I’ll get any sleep tonight,” she says, hugging herself.

I pull her close, wrapping my arms around her. “You’re right on that one,” I say, focusing on her mouth. “But for an entirely different reason.”

Chapter 24

Nicole

I step out of the SUV, in awe of the vast expanse sprawling before me. I’ve never been to a regular airport, much less a private one.

My gaze fixates on the sleek jet waiting on the runway. This world, so different from my own, feels unbelievable right now, increasing my sense of apprehension.

Derrick comes around the back of the SUV, oblivious to a moment that seems surreal as he puts the luggage strap over his shoulder. It speaks to his familiarity with this lifestyle that includes friends who can send private jets at a moment’s notice. Meanwhile, I was thrilled to be able to buy a car that takes a quart of oil every month just to keep going.

His pace slows and I glance up to find his brow furrowed. “Still nervous about the flight?” he asks with concern.

“A little.” I try for cheer but probably only manage a weak smile at best.

He slides an arm around my waist, bringing me in close with a comforting squeeze. His touch, firm yet gentle, comforts me.

“Where am I?” he asks in that bedroom voice that sends tingles down my back.

I smile, taking in his steady gaze. “You’re right here beside me.” His calm helps to set me at ease.

“Good girl.” He gives me a quick kiss. “Now let’s get going.”

I nod, as ready as I’ll ever be.

“Derrick.” A man comes out from the big building next to where we parked.

“Frank.” He holds out a hand, smiling. “How are you doing?”

“Good.” The man with sandy hair removes his hat. “Ma’am,” he says in greeting. If my TV trivia doesn’t fail me, that type of hat means he’s the captain, or pilot.

“Hello.”

“This is Nicole,” Derrick says, introducing me.

“Captain Frank Monday, ma’am.” He gives a quick nod. “I’m a pilot for the de Marco family.”

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