Chapter 34

“Morning,’’ she said, smiling.

Her tone was friendly. “Why the smiles?”

She shrugged. When she called earlier she was all business. I followed Elena. Protocol required all non-employees to be escorted. No exceptions were made for spouses or, for that matter, ex-spouses.

Once we arrived at her office, she motioned for me to sit, and closed the door.

“So what couldn’t be said on the phone?” I asked.

“Couple things, Jake.” Elena fingered her hair behind her ear. “First. How would you feel if Chel and I went up to my parents in North Carolina for Christmas?”

I coughed. “Christmas without my daughter? I’ve never spent Christmas without her.” I hit my foot on her desk, crossing my leg. My neck burned.

Elena pursed her lips. “They’re not getting any younger, and they’re not in the best health,” she said softly.

“What does Chel think about this?” I looked at Elena. Her shoulders slouched. She didn’t make eye contact.