Page 39 of Perfect Satisfaction

I debate how much to tell her, but plans are already in place. “Because he was told he’ll be losing a key employee in the not too distant future.”

“That has him taking it out on you, as always.” It’s a statement, not a question.

I nod, waiting for her to ask the question.

Angie probes me as if she knows all the employees at MSW. “Who is it?”

I stare into space for a moment before answering, “Me.”

Across the ocean separating us, there’s complete silence. Then I’m certain Angie’s shrieking might crash the satellite our call is being relayed through. “Are you kidding?”

“No.”

“What does this mean for you?”

“I—” But before I can say anything more, she interrupts, “I don’t care! Tell me this means you’re finally moving home.”

There have been many days I’ve cursed video conference calls—particularly when they’re in other time zones. Today, I think they’re a golden gift from the gods because I get to watch Angie’s face glow when I give her the answer she wants. “Yes, I’m moving back to the States.”

I’m still not certain if I’ll ever call it home.

CHAPTEREIGHTEEN

Who runs the world?

Apparently, this week, it’s Ursula “Sula” Moore. She had a captive audience, including Australia’s CISO of their Department of Defence, as she strode across the tarmac in Canberra, the nation’s capital city.

One wonders what kind of mark MSW plans on leaving in the Australian Capital Territory.

—Moore You Want

“We truly appreciate your adaptability, Ms. Moore,”Australia’s chief information security officer for the department of defence reiterates. “We are delighted you were able to adapt to our changes. The update was unexpected but critical.”

I incline my head. “It’s my job to be able to pivot.” I pretend not to notice JB’s flinch.

I’ve pretended not to notice my brother a lot this trip.

“One you excel at.” He stands, concluding our meeting.

I do as well and extend my hand. “Thank you for the compliment.”

“My counterpart at the US DoD said he’s expecting your team on site tomorrow morning. You don’t waste time.”

“We intend to deliver the software to the Five Eyes Allies on schedule, Mr. Taylor.” I can’t repress the smirk that lifts the corner of my lips. “Though you will have to endure my countrymen bragging about playing with the new system first.”

“No worries. I have a side bet going with your CISO that we will find something they missed.” We share a laugh before I begin gathering my belongings.

After we’ve departed for the airport, JB says quietly, “You are truly remarkable, Sula.”

I look over my shoulder to ensure the window is up between us and the limo driver. “You didn’t believe that in your office last week.”

I take his profile in as he stares out the blackened windows. Then something unexpected comes out of his mouth. “I had a phone call right before you came into my office. It brought up every uncomfortable thought abouthim—churned up everything wrong in my mind.”

This piques my interest. “Who was it?”

That’s when his faces me and I take in the lines bracketing his eyes and mouth. If I haven’t slept well since our confrontation, neither has he. His words tell me exactly why. “One of West’s solicitors.”

“What did they say?” He holds his silence.