Chapter 157

Iget dressed and call Gretchen, planning to head straight to see Nathan. Amber promised she’s doing better, and I made sure she ate before I left. Sanjay is going to take her to Queens and wait there until she’s done, which makes me feel more relaxed about leaving her. I’m hardly in a position to preach about Queens being dangerous, anyway, not after Freddie’s assault. Having a Manhattan zip code doesn’t mean you’re safe—and he’s about to find that out himself. The hard way. My brother’s secretary looks taken aback as I stride toward her, which is understandable. I think this is the first time I’ve left the house in sweatpants since college. “Good morning, Helen. Is he in?” I ask, pausing politely at her desk. The etiquette is more for her sake than his. I’m going into his office no matter what she says. “He is, Mr. James. He has a call coming from Hong Kong in about half an hour, though.” I nod and smile. “No problem. I’ll make sure I’m done by then.” I knock and go straight in. Natha