The next morning, by the time Cassian got up, Rachel had already made breakfast.
Seeing him emerge from the bedroom, Rachel smiled. “Come eat. You were pretty hammered last night, so I made some oatmeal this morning–it’ll be easier on your stomach.”
Cassian looked genuinely touched. “Sorry for being such a mess.”
“Don’t even worry about it.” Rachel served him a bowl and set it in front of him.
Cassian looked at the oatmeal–it was perfectly creamy and smooth, clearly slow–cooked with care for a long time.
He felt genuinely moved by the thoughtful gesture.
Cassian sat down and started eating with his usual refined manner.
To go with the oatmeal, Rachel had also made some buttered toast and perfectly scrambled eggs.
Cassian ate with obvious enjoyment.
That put Rachel’s mind at ease.
After breakfast, Cassian said, “I’ll have the driver drop you off at work today. I’m flying out for business–should be back in two or three days.”
Rachel looked surprised, then quickly said, “That’s totally fine, I can just grab an Uber.”
“It’s no big deal. Philips is picking me up for the airport anyway,” Cassian explained.
Everything was happening pretty fast.
Cassian gave her a quick rundown, tossed a couple suits in his garment bag, and headed out.
At the office, Rachel officially dove into her new role.
The company had assigned her an assistant named Sharlene. “Ms. Campbell, if you have any questions about anything, just let me know.”
Rachel smiled. “Thanks, I appreciate that. I’m going to check my emails first.”
Usually Barbara would send work assignments through email.
“Perfect.” Sharlene left her to get settled in.
Rachel got down to business.
Around lunchtime, Rachel’s phone buzzed–it was Sharpson calling.
Her first instinct was to decline.
But she knew her father well enough to know he’d just keep calling until she picked up.
Finally she answered.
“What’s up?” Rachel’s tone was completely flat.
“I’m your father, not some stranger,” Sharpson’s commanding voice came through.
“Sorry, but I’m way past the age where I need paternal guidance,” Rachel had zero interest in chitchat.
“Ungrateful brat! This weekend is your grandmother’s 80th birthday party. You better be there,” Sharpson cut straight to business.
