Page 111 of Redemption
Greer narrowed her eyes at me and opened her mouth as if to protest. I mouthed, “I’ve got it.”
“Of course, Ms. Mackenzie.” Alondra typed something on the computer.
“I love your name,” I said, leaning on the counter. “So beautiful.”
She smiled, her shoulders relaxing a little. “Thank you, ma’am. It means lark, but my mom heard it on a Spanish show and fell in love.”
“That’s lovely. There’s actually an Alondra Valley in California. It’s quite beautiful, and the Huxley Grand AV is nestled in among the mountains and the vineyards.”
Greer sighed. “I love that location. My husband and I had our honeymoon there.” And then her expression darkened, and she clamped her mouth shut.
Hm. If her reaction was anything to go by, her stressed-out state had something to do with Logan.
“I just love name meanings,” Alondra said. “They’re so interesting. For instance, your first name, Ms. Mackenzie, means ‘warrior.’”
“Thank you,” I said. “I think my gran told me that at some point.”
“She was a lovely woman,” Alondra said. “Very business-savvy but also just kind.” I smiled, hoping that someday I could live up to my grandmother’s legacy. Even now, years after her death, people still talked of her and Pops with love and reverence.
“She was,” I agreed.
Alondra glanced at her computer. “Let me take you through.”
When Jackson moved to follow us, Alondra frowned. “I’m sorry, sir. The spa is for patrons only.”
I leaned in, lowering my voice. “He’s my executive protection agent.” When she furrowed her brow, I added, "My bodyguard. So he’s going to have to come with us.”
“Oh.” Alondra’s eyes widened. “Of course. I apologize for the misunderstanding.”
“Not a problem.” I smiled, hoping to reassure her that it was no big deal.
“Please, follow me.”
Jackson waited outside the changing area. Gentle nature music played softly through hidden speakers, and the dim lighting added to the relaxed atmosphere.
“How was your trip?” I asked Greer as we changed into our robes.
“Good. Not nearly as exciting as sailing here, I’m sure.” She smiled at one of the employees, accepting a cup of our signature herbal tea with gratitude.
I sipped my tea, the flavors coating my throat in warmth. “It’s been quite the adventure.” In every sense of the word.
“Jackson’s not going to want to go to New York after this.”
“Perhaps not,” I said, smiling. “But I know he’s looking forward to visiting you and your mom.”
“Visit?” She laughed. “Jackson’s not coming to visit. He’s moving to New York.”
My hand stilled, my tea hovering midair. “What?”
What was Greer talking about? Jackson didn’t know where he was headed after this assignment.
“Yeah.” Greer set her tea on a nearby table. “I don’t know all the details, but Mom said something about him moving to New York for a promotion. Hudson asked Jackson to run the office there.”
“Oh. That’s…” I swallowed, feeling as if the words were made of glass. “That’s great.”
My stomach dropped. How could he possibly pass up an opportunity like that?
She tilted her head, considering. “I’m not surprised he didn’t mention it. You know how Jackson is. As my mom always says, he’s a tough nut to crack.”