Page 96 of Fight for Me

“You are more important. I hope you know that.”

Anne gave a little sigh.

“Besides,” he hesitated, “you’re going to have to make a public appearance soon. Is that all right, sweetheart?”

Anne absentmindedly nodded, then realized he couldn’t see her. “Of course. When and where?”

“I’m having a rally in Columbus the day after tomorrow. You won’t have to speak. Just smile and wave. Like the penguins.”

Anne frowned. “What? Like what penguins?”

“You know. The penguins inMadagascar.”

“Okay. Well. Never seen it. Isn’t that a cartoon?”

Blane gave a sound of exasperation. “Don’t judge. And we’ll remedy that.”

Anne laughed. “Yes. I’ll be glad to attend the rally.”

“Excellent. I’ll have a car come get you and bring you to the plane.” He paused and his voice lowered. “Please consider moving in with me. I’d love that more than anything.”

Anne’s heart melted. “I’ll think about it. See you in a couple of days.”

There was a pointed silence. Then Blane spoke.

“I love you.”

Anne’s eyes drifted closed. Savoring the sound of his voice and words in her ear.

“I love you, too,” she whispered. “Goodnight.”

“Goodnight, my gorgeous girl.” The call ended.

* * *

Two days later, Anne was settling into an armored SUV come to collect her. She’d taken great care with her clothes and hair. She’d chosen a dress by Steve McQueen. Form fitting and flattering, it was a deep rust color and the skirt hit just below her knees. She wore matching four-inch heels with gold accents. Her mother had been teaching her how to walk in these kinds of shoes since she was twelve. It came second nature to don the persona of demure upper-class lady. She left her hair down and curled it so that it fell in dark waves around her face and down her back.

Tucking the golden clutch under her arm, she was assisted from the SUV onto the tarmac. She climbed the steps and stepped into the corridor of the private jet. She gazed around. Her stomach was in knots, but nothing showed on her face but placid peace. Then she saw Blane at the same moment he saw her. He made a beeline for her.

“Thank you for coming,” he said, his hands landing on her upper arms.

“It’s my pleasure.” She smiled, her anxiety easing.

He led her toward a set of seats at the front of the plane. Plush leather, she took the seat opposite. Within moments, a woman came up to him with a notepad and iPad.

“Sir, I—”

“Not right now, Linda.” Blane dismissed her.

The woman looked taken aback and glanced at Anne. Anne was struck by the sudden flash of malevolence she caught in that gaze. Then it was gone.

“Of course, sir.” She retreated.

“Tell me how you’re feeling.” Blane’s focus was entirely on her, which considering the number of people and hubbub surrounding them, was something of a miracle.

“Well, I’ve already tossed the cookies this morning, so that’s over with.”

Blane grimaced in sympathy.

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