Page 7 of King

“It was in the works,” I say, trying to sound nonchalant.“I didn’t want to say anything until it was all arranged.”I introduce them, and Tommy looks upset.

“You know you could’ve consulted us before you hired someone else,” Tommy says and turns to Fogerty.“No offence to you.”

Fogerty shrugs.“None taken.”

“Look,” I say, unable to keep my tone calm.“I don’t have to pass every decision by you guys.My father didn’t, and I don’t intend to either.”

Ryan comes over and extends his hand to Fogerty.“Glad to meet you,” he says and smiles.“Welcome to O’Connor Enterprises.I’m sure you’ll help us improve on the technology side.Not that Ed is a problem.But we can always use more expertise.“

Fogarty stands and shakes Ryan’s hand warmly.“Thank you for the welcome.I appreciate it.Harrison thought I had some skills that could be useful to O’Connor Enterprises, and I’m happy to be here.I’m sure Ed is a great part of the business, and when I’m finished my work, I’m sure he’ll be happy to take over once more.”

“Well, it would’ve been nice to have known about this sooner,” Tommy says, his voice acid.“I got stuff going on with Ed and so had no idea of the changing plans.”

“No problem,” Fogerty says.“Whatever you and he were working on, I can take over.I have extensive experience with technology.I’m sure we can figure it out.”

I point to the door.“Well, if you guys are done intruding in my business, I’d like to get back to work.”

Ryan waves his hand.“Sorry, boss.Won’t happen again.Let’s go, Tommy.”

Tommy leaves with reluctance clear on his face.He isnothappy.

By that measure, neither am I.Regardless, this is my new reality.

I have to get used to it.

ChapterFour

Natalia

My first day at the hospital goes fast.Everyone is surprised to learn that I’m married, but they’re all cheerful about it, congratulating me.Except for Pete Ellison, who still seems to think I’m fair game.I make a show of my ring, but that doesn’t seem to dismay him too much.He must think he’s Casanova.No one has had the chance to disabuse him of that.

Whatever the case, I ignore him and get on with work.I have a heavy schedule during my residency to get through before I graduate with my forensic psychiatry specialization.Juggling my new marriage, my residency, and whatever it is the FBI wants me to do will be a challenge.I don’t think I’ll have much time for social life beyond that.

After I’m finished for the day, I drop by the bar and say hello to Gramps.As usual, his smiling face greets me as I enter the bar’s dim interior.

“There she is,” he says, wiping the countertop.“The new bride.How was your week off?Ready for the next few months of your residency and your marriage?”

I laugh and sit at the bar in front of him.“It’s going to be exhausting,” I say.“But I’m up for it.If med school taught me anything, it’s that I can take a whole lot of torture and still survive.”

“That’s right,” he says and puts his cloth away.“Can I get you anything to drink, or is this just a quick stop to say hello?”

“Just a quick stop,” I reply.“I have to get home and get some sleep.We had a nice week on Fire Island and are rested up, but it’s back to the old grind for both of us.”

He frowns.“What’s up with the case?Any developments?”

“I guess I’ll find out the next time I talk to my handler.”

He shrugs.“Well, I hope it all works out for you, and this is over soon, so you can have an actual life free from them.”

I sigh heavily.“Do you think I’ll ever be free of it?“

“If Harrison can get out from under the mafia’s grip and go legit, maybe then you two can have a life.That is, once you’re done with your residency and have a real position.”

“That’s our only goal,” I say.“Well, I have to go.”I stand up.“I just wanted to come by and let you know we’re back and that everything’s going OK.”

“Thanks,” he says and comes around the bar.He gives me a big hug and a kiss on both cheeks.“You and your brother are the only family I have left.I want you to know you can come to me with anything at any time.I know the life.I understand how hard it is and how much it takes from you.You tell that to Harrison.The same applies to him.I’m always here, and my ears are always available.”

I hug him again.“Thanks, Gramps.“