#Chapter 54 – Conflict

Fay knocks gently on the open door to Kent’s office that night, leaning casually against it. He looks up, his expression changing from one of irritation to surprise. “Fay,” he says, folding his hands on his desk. “What can I do for you?” “Can I come in?” she asks, tentative. Kent nods, waiting patiently as she comes into the room and seats herself primly in a chair across from him. “I just wanted to say thank you,” she says, her voice soft and earnest. “For my sister. That was so wonderful, today, to have her back in my life for a little bit.” Kent works hard to keep the smile off of his mouth. He’s surprised, really, by the pleasure he feels in hearing her apology. He likes it, he decides, when she comes to him to express gratitude. When she sits quietly before him, looking at him happy, grateful. Obedient. Damnit, but it makes him want to buy her a thousand more sisters or horses or whatever it is that makes her happy. “You’re welcome,” he says simply, leaning back in his cha