Page 66 of Choosing Us

Christine

Please let me know if you need anything. I can drive out to Forrest Falls or coordinate anything from here!

Me

So happy for you, Walker. They're perfect.

Walker

The official email will also let you guys know that while I'm on leave, Harlow will be Acting Task Force Lead.

Kelly

Was that not official already? I just assumed!

Tara

Doesn't really feel like an announcement either. Plus, the babies already stole the show.

Me

It was not official and this is an announcement to all of us.

Walker

Sorry, Harlow. I know you'd put up a fight, but now I have babies so you can't. I'm still available to you guys by text or phone.

Christine

No, you aren't. You are on paternity leave and we will be respecting that line, sir.

Kelly

Hear, hear!

Mason

I take one quick shower and family trees change, leadership gets reassigned.

Mason

Oh, and congrats, Walker!

Walker

Thanks everyone. We'll schedule a time for you all to meet them in the next month or two. But consider me offline in all official capacities unless something extremely significant pulls me in.

Me

We've got it covered, sir.

CHAPTER THIRTY-SIX

Incoming Call: Astor R. Morgan-Lane.

I could answer it, I’m still five minutes away from my building, but I don’t have the energy for her right now—and I’m not interested in placating her either, so instead of letting it ring to voicemail, I decline the call.

Somewhere in the world, Aisha is clapping for me right now.