Page 24 of Play With Me

“All right. Listen, I know it’s not easy, but you’ve done so well. Another fourteen months and you’ll have your answers. You won’t need to jump through any hoops or deal with the red tape. You will lawfully have all your answers.”

I didn’t want to wait that long, but if James was right, it appeared that I had no choice.

“Wait – what do you mean by no news that you can sharewith me? You have news you can share with someone else?”

“No. What I’m trying to tell you is that I found out I have a conflict of interest on your case. If you’d like, you can hire someone outside Cross Enterprises, but there’s nothing more I can do for you on this case.”

He wasn’t making any sense.

“Do yourself a favor, Brook. Let it go and wait it out. Time will pass, and you’ll have your answer before you know it.”

January would mark six years since Marissa’s passing. It would mark six long years of looking for that one person who could bring me my long-sought peace. I let out a desperate exhale. With Lola back in the city, I could use the distraction.

“I’m doing this for Sophie as much as I’m doing this for myself.”

“I know, but my hands are tied.”

It didn’t look like James was budging on this, and I wondered what information he’d found that placed him in conflict of interest. The respect I had for this man won out.

“Thanks. I’ll think about it and I’ll let you know. Say hello to Laura.”

“Before Christmas. You should be getting an invitation to our anniversary party next spring.”

“Thanks.”

I headed out the door and down the hall to reception. As I passed Emma Cross’s office, I overheard Lola’s voice.

“What should I do, Emma?”

“Nothing. You can’t say anything. You have a confidentiality agreement with your client.”

“She’s with him right now. She trusts him.”

“Do you?”

“I do.”

“Good. You should. I’ve worked with their father before. He’s a good man.”

“I better get going. Kate cannot wake up without me there.”

What was that about?

“Lola, how are you feeling otherwise?” Emma’s voice brought my attention back to the conversation.

“I’m good. Life is good. I’m actually seeing someone.”

“Really?”

“I know, eh? Lola Lowes and second chances don’t really go together.”

“Don’t sell yourself short, Lola.”

“He said that too.”

“So maybe he’s worth a shot. Maybe he’s the one?”

“I already had the one.”

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