Page 65 of Truth (Wicked Empire 2)

She gave another quick laugh, and some of the heaviness that had started to weigh down the conversation lifted.

“Well, did you find what you’re looking for?”

I didn’t answer immediately, instead considering the question.

Had I?

“I don’t know,” I finally said.

“That’s honest,” she responded.

“It is. But…”

I trailed off, my thoughts slowing as I considered my predicament. I took a deep breath.

“I think it’s going to be okay,” I finally said.

I had no reason for that, knew that despite Davit’s assurances, everything was still up in the air.

But I did think everything would be okay.

“You remember what I told you, don’t you?” she said.

“That I can rely on myself,” I responded.

“Bingo. You believe that now?”

“Yeah,” I said.

And for better or worse, I did.

Yes, I had felt that before. I had felt like I was independent, but these weeks had proven something more.

They had proven that I was a fighter, that when the chips were down, I would come through.

It was a skill that I hoped wasn’t tested again, but it gave me confidence, however small, that I could face the challenges I was sure to confront.

“Then that’s all that matters,” she said.

“Well, catch me up on what’s been going on,” I said.

“I know you know,” she said.

“No, I don’t,” I responded.

“Well, your father finally decided on Keenan’s replacement. And, respect to the dead, but this guy is much better. And not too hard on the eyes, if I may say so,” Carol said.

“That’s good,” I replied, laughing.

The perpetually single Carol would never settle down, but as she liked to say, that didn’t mean she couldn’t look.

“And Josh quit,” she said, her voice taking on a somber tone.

“Oh, really?” I said.

“Yeah. Said he wanted to start his own thing. Which makes sense. Smart boy like that should take his shot,” she said.

“Yeah,” I responded.