Chapter 5 - THE NIGHT THE DOYLES CAME CALLING
Graham Doyle called Vincent at 4:17 that afternoon.
I was sitting in the library when Vincent's phone rang.
He glanced at the screen.
Then answered.
“Doyle.”
I went cold.
Vincent listened.
His expression didn't change.
Then he said, “Elena Marsh is not available to speak with you.”
My heart pounded.
A pause.
“No.”
Another pause.
Vincent's jaw tightened.
“Threatening her won't help your position.”
He ended the call.
I stared.
“What did he say?”
Vincent looked at me.
“He claims you stole company property.”
I swallowed.
“I didn't.”
“I believe you.”
My eyes filled.
“He wants the drive?”
“Yes.”
“What happens if you don't give it back?”
Vincent was silent.
Then said, “That's being handled.”
I shook my head.
“Please don't hide things from me.”
He looked at me.
I continued.
“Graham always said he was handling things. It meant I wasn't allowed to ask questions.”
Vincent's expression softened.
“You're right.”
He sat down.
“The Doyles are threatening to withdraw from tomorrow's negotiations.”
I stared.
“Because of me?”
“No.”
He leaned forward.
“Because the drive may contain evidence of financial crimes.”
I swallowed.
“And they think I know what's on it.”
“Yes.”
I looked down.
Then whispered, “I'm scared.”
Vincent nodded.
“I know.”
I looked at him.
“Are you?”
He hesitated.
Then smiled faintly.
“More than I'd like to admit.”
That surprised me.
“Why?”
He looked toward the window.
“Because I know how men like Graham behave when they believe they're losing control.”
I studied him.
“And because you care?”
Vincent looked back at me.
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then he said, “Yes.”
My heart stumbled.
I looked away.
May you like
I wasn't ready for that.
Not yet.
