Page 142 of False God

“Thanks again for …” I clear my throat.

Cal nods. “I knew she’d want you here.”

That makes one of us. I’m not sure if I made anything better by showing up.

There’s no sign of Jasper, but Fran gives me a hug. Bridget disappeared into Lili’s room after I left it.

“I’ve got to … head out.” It’s a pathetic farewell, but I’m not currently in the best shape.

My red-eye landed in New York at nine a.m. I checked into my hotel as early as I could, passed out for several hours, then put on this tux. This evening didn’t play out the way I’d hoped it would, and I’ve spent too much time in hospitals recently.

I’m expecting expressions to harden when I announce I’m leaving, but they all still look sympathetic. Makes me wonder what the hell Lili told them about us.

I stop to say goodbye to Asher, avoiding meeting Lili’s family’s eyes. Her mom and aunt are whispering, and her brothers are both frowning.

“Thank you for the invitation.”

Asher nods. Then lifts an eyebrow. “I didn’t realize how well you knew the family.”

“I don’t really. Just … her.”

He opens his mouth like he wants to say something, then thinks better of it and shuts it. “Been keeping an eye out for any investment news with your hotels …”

I avert eye contact. “I haven’t sold.”

“If you’re still wanting to, I have some contacts in Europe who I think would be interested. They haven’t done much in hospitality, but they prioritize quality over quantity. Might be a good fit. I can get you their contact information, if you’d like?”

“I’d appreciate it,” I tell him.

I trust Asher’s judgment. And I’m so sick of treading water. If it’s a deal that involves a fair price—the amount the shares are actually worth—I’d seize it like a life preserver.

“Great. I’ll get it to you on Monday.”

“Thank you.”

We shake hands before I continue down the hallway. As soon as I’m around the corner and out of sight, I let my shoulders slump. Press the button for the lift and lean against the wall, covering my yawn with one hand.

Everything feels raw after my conversation with Lili. I’m still sorting through the panic she was injured, the relief that’s she okay. The uncertainty of not knowing what to say.

“Charles.”

I turn at the sound of my name, then stiffen.

Crew Kensington is walking toward me. There’s no sign of the friendliness that was on his face when we spoke at the gala as he looks me up and down before stopping a couple of feet away. His eyes—the same blue as Lili’s—search my face.

The lift arrives, doors opening with a ding.

I don’t move.

“When we spoke earlier, I wasn’t aware you were on the sort of terms with my daughter that merited a trip to the hospital.”

He pins me with an intense stare, broad shoulders squared. I have maybe an inch on him, but I don’t feel very tall right now.

Crew Kensington is an intimidating man. I’ve been told I’m one, too, but I don’t feel very powerful right now, either.

“I just wanted to make sure she was okay.”

He cocks his head, considering that. “I don’t have an issue with you coming here, Charles. I’m wondering why you’re leaving.”

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