I told her you were busy. Camille met his eyes. I am never too busy for this. Sophie studied them with the satisfaction of someone moving pieces into place. Later, after Sophie returned to her homework, Camille and Julian stood alone by the office windows.
The city lights reflected against the glass. About the lobby, Julian began. You do not have to answer because you feel cornered. That is not why I have not answered. Then why?
He looked down at the street. My wife's name was Rachel. Camille said nothing, letting him continue. She died 6 years ago. Fast illness, faster than the doctors expected.
Sophie remembers pieces of her mostly stories she is not sure are memories. His voice remained steady, but his hands did not. I have spent a long time making sure no one enters Sophie's life unless I know they will stay. Camille felt the meaning beneath the warning. I am not asking you to forget Rachel.
I know. And I am not asking to replace anyone. I know that too. Julian finally looked at her. Rachel would have liked you.
The sentence carried more weight than any declaration. Camille's eyes filled, but she did not look away. Was she patient? No. Then perhaps not.
He laughed softly. She liked people who did not take themselves too seriously. You laugh at my jokes even when they are bad. They are better than you think. Mostly.
His smile faded as he glanced toward the south wing. Camille followed his gaze. Tell me what Gordon is hiding. Before Julian could answer, her phone rang. Denise's name appeared.
Her voice was barely above a whisper. I found something. Conference room off the lobby. Come alone, Camille looked at Julian, she says. Alone.
Then I should leave. No. Camille's decision was immediate. Whatever this is, it already belongs to you. Denise was waiting beside a battered box dust on her sleeves and fear in her eyes.
She locked the door after them, then placed Julian's original report on the table, his face emptied of color. Where did you get this archive room? Denise unfolded the compliance certificate bearing Gordon's signature. I think he knows I found it. Camille read the warning, then the approval, then the dates.