Only One Touch (Only One 4)

“Okay, fine, before we are both blubbering messes, how about you read me the email.”

I smile at her, opening the document and reading it to her. By the end of the short letter, I have my own tears. I look at my watch. “It’s almost time.” I get up and hug her. “I’m going to head out before it goes out,” I say. “Can you send it?”

“Of course,” she says, and I smile. “I’m going to miss you.”

“I’ll send pictures,” I say, and she walks out of the office. Trevor and Francis already came to say goodbye. I take one look around the office before grabbing my purse. Stopping by the doorway, I turn the lights out, and my heart sinks just a touch.

I smile at everyone. No one knows what is going to come at five o’clock, but it was what I wanted. I didn’t want the whole goodbye hugs and all that. I am coming back. I had to argue with Trevor and Francis, so it’s silly. “Have a nice weekend!” someone yells to me, and I turn to smile at them.

“You as well.” I walk out before I say what I’ve always said. See you Monday bright and early.

The elevator ride down is slow, and when I get home, I change into my yoga pants. I lock up my house, then grab my luggage. I don’t know how long I’m going for, so I am bringing three bags. I also don’t know why I’m bringing all these clothes since my plan is to be on the beach every day.

“Your car is waiting,” the doorman says to me, and I smile at him.

“Have a happy holiday,” I say, and he just nods his head at me.

I sit in the car, looking out the window. The holiday decorations are lit up everywhere. I watch the city fade away as we make it to the airport. The plane is waiting for me as soon as I get there.

I lied to Erika. My flight is exactly at five o’clock. I wanted to be in the air when the notice goes out. I walk up the steps, and the attendant waits for me with a glass of champagne. “Welcome aboard.”

“Thank you,” I say, grabbing the glass and walking into the plane. I sit down, fasten my seat belt, and nod at the attendant who closes the door.

My phone beeps with an email alert, and I look down to see that my notice is out. Bringing my glass to my lips, I say, “Goodbye,” right before I take a sip.

Chapter 34

Nico

“Have you checked your emails?” Lizzie asks as she walks into my office. I look up at her.

“No,” I say, looking back down at the contracts on my desk. “That’s what you do.”

“I think you should check your email,” she says, and I run my hands through my hair.

“Lizzie, I don’t have time for this, nor do I want to.” My eyes burn as I grab my phone and open my emails. Ever since Becca left my house, I’ve been in a daze of sorts. I sleep maybe three hours a night if that. I travel with the team, but to be honest, not even that is keeping my mind off her. “What am I looking for?” I ask, but the minute I see her name, I don’t ask anymore questions. My heart speeds up, and for a moment, I’m happy.

From: Becca Edwards

To: Nico Harrison

A little note from Becca.

Good Afternoon,

I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing today to inform you that effective immediately, I will be on an undetermined sabbatical. It was a very hard decision to make, one that I did not do lightly. But one that I felt needed to be done.

This in no way will alter the way we do business nor will it hinder any of the contracts.

In my absence, I will be leaving you in the very capable hands of Erika Markingson. She has been my right-hand person for the past three years, and I have no doubt that you will not even miss me.

I want to take this time to wish you and your family the best holiday season.

Until next time.

Becca

“Oh my God,” I say, reading it, my heartbeat finally slowing down. “Get Manning on the phone,” I say, but my fingers are already dialing Manning. He sends me straight to voice mail, and it’s no surprise since we have been at odds since he found out I was married. “It’s me. Call me back.” He made it clear whose side he was on, and it wasn’t mine. “This is crazy.” I get up, grabbing my jacket. “Her work is her life.”

“The emails says otherwise,” Lizzie says.

“Find out everything,” I say, walking to the elevator. “And I mean everything.”

“I’m not Sherlock Holmes.” She puts her hands on her hips, and I just glare at her. “But I will make some phone calls and see if anyone knows anything.” I nod at her, getting into the elevator. “Where are you going?” she asks.