Page 64 of Dreaming

“Answer my question.”

Nicki swallowed hard. “I put a little camera in your office. In that ugly sculpture you love so much.”

A gift years before from Harrison Delkin. The artist brother of the Delkin siblings and someone Nia adored.

It would have been easy to conceal a camera within the layers of metal and Nicki was never considered a security threat.

Certainly not by her sister.

Feeling confident again, Nicki added smugly, “It was pointed at your screen. I watched it when I got to Florida until I saw a phone number. I didn’t want to call it myself. Had my boyfriend do it. He did anything I told him…”

“Yes, clearly. He died for you.” Nicki’s eyes widened. “Thank you for solving the mystery. You’re now dismissed.”

She stood, Dennis’ hand on her elbow, and Nicki started screaming, “Nia! Wait! Wh-what do you mean?”

“You’re about to be cut off without a cent, left to your own devices. I’m having you dropped in another country and wishing you luck.”

“No, Nia! No! I-I didn’t mean it! I got mad!”

“Yes, you have a disgusting temper. This time, it got you into a mess you can’t get out of…”

“Wait, Nia. Please! Don’t do this!”

“You think this punishment is excessive for your attempt to have me, Mom, Dennis, and several dozen innocent people killed? You think it’s too much, Nicki? You have your life, you aren’t going to jail, and yet, you still can’t be grateful.”

“I-I won’t fuck up again. Don’t do this, Nia. What do you want me to do? I can make it right. I can. I’m your sister, Nia. Come on!”

Sighing painfully, Nia said quietly, “When I walked into this house, before you knew your boyfriend was dead, before you knew the people you hoped would kill what is left of your family were gone, you were cocky, insulting, cruel. That is the real you, Nicki. That’s who you are.”

Walking to her sister, Nia stared at her. “Even if Mom or I die right now, you wouldn’t get a cent. Nothing. All your hate, all your plans were for nothing.”

“Don’t, Nia. Y-you’re my big sister. Don’t do this. I’m sorry! I know I fucked up. I-I went a little crazy.”

“Yes. A long time ago.”

“Can we negotiate? Nia…I’m family.”

“What would you like to negotiate?”

“Don’t put me anywhere backward and-and give me enough to live comfortably…”

Nia let the silence draw out for two minutes as she walked to the front window to stare at the street beyond.

“I have a counteroffer. I’ll send you to the U.S. Virgin Islands. I own a small condo there. It will be stocked and the utilities paid. A permanent bodyguard will live in the second bedroom. I’ll pay for your housing, your food, and provide protection and transportation for you. You will have no money at your disposal.”

Turning, she met Nicki’s eyes.

“No money?”

“Zero dollars. If you want money, you earn it. You have a degree and can find a job. All the drugs are out of your system after your time here. Your bodyguard will have access to an account for emergencies but if I see cash withdrawals or use of that money for you to party, I’ll stop the deposits.”

“Food though?”

“Every month. Food, housing, transportation, protection.” She paused. “You also have to get therapy and attend anger management classes. If you refuse to go, our deal is void. This is my final offer. I find out you’re playing games and I’ll drop you in a non-English speaking country with nothing. Trust me, Nicole. In this, there is no third chance.”

“Alright…”

Nia nodded once and looked at Vi. “Oversee transport and her new detail will meet you. Thank you for coming to oversee this visit, Vi. I know so much is going on right now.”

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