Page 140 of Mario
“Yes,” he says. “It is.”
“I planned to message Ricardo directly,” I continue. “Since it’s his department, and I will, but I thought you might want to know as well, and…”
I stop, a bit sheepish, and clear my throat
Lorenzo’s mouth curves faintly.
“He can be intense. Ricardo.”
“Maybe a bit,” I say, feeling foolish.
“Do not let that stop you from sending the message.”
“I won’t.”
“Good. Ricardo prefers problems be brought to him early. He only bites when they are brought to him late.”
“That is meant to reassure me?”
“Not entirely.”
I laugh. “I will get that message to him first thing.”
Lorenzo’s smile returns. “Send me the emails too. I’ll keep an eye on it.”
“Thank you.”
“And Victoria?”
“Yes?”
“If Hanley contacts you again and refuses to accept the answer, forward it directly to Ricardo. Do not spend your time arguing with a man who thinks inconvenience is persecution.”
I laugh softly. “That may be the most accurate description of half my inbox.”
He nods toward my office. “Welcome back.”
I unlock my office.
“And Victoria.” He pauses.
I turn back.
“You do look better,” he says. “I mean that sincerely.”
Something in my chest softens before I can stop it.
“Thank you,” I say.
“Try to stay that way.”
I almost laugh. “I’ll do my best.”
He nods once, then starts down the corridor.
I step into my office and close the door behind me.
For a moment, I just stand there and take it in.
