Chapter 8: The Work Phone

The regional review started at ten on Tuesday morning, and the whole Austin floor was in the glass conference room by 9:55.

Renee had said all hands. Nobody had asked why.

I sat at the long table between Renee and a quiet analyst.

Quinton stood by the door in his canvas coat, wearing a visitor badge Renee had signed for him.

At 10:02 the elevator opened.

Bryce walked in wearing a navy suit and his best smile.

Kendall walked in behind him, holding his arm.

"Good morning, Austin," he said warmly. "I'm Bryce VanDorn, director of regional operations. I'm so glad to be here."

His eyes found me and didn't blink.

He crossed the room and bent to my ear.

"Sabina. Let's step out. I'll make this right, I promise. You've punished me enough."

"Take out your second phone," I said.

He straightened.

"What?"

"The one you keep in your coat. Put it on the table."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Bryce," Renee said pleasantly, "everyone in this room is waiting. It's a quick request."

"This is absurd."

Quinton stood up.

Bryce turned and saw him, and for the first time his smile slipped.

"Quinton. You didn't say you'd be here."

"You told me not to tell Sabina where you were," Quinton said. "I thought you'd like me to keep my word."

He took out his own phone and held it up for the room.

"I'm calling our mother. She's going to send a text. If I'm wrong, I'll apologize to you in front of everyone."

"Quinton."

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