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“Breathe,” Harvard ordered as the line went dead

Had she hung up? She didn’t know

A security guard called out to Harvard, but Rachel couldn’t hear over the roar of blood rushing through her veins

“No,” Harvard barked “I’ve got this” He backed Rachel against the wall, shielding her fro eyes “Breathe in and out with me Put your hand on my chest Feel it rise and fall” Heit inside his jacket, over his heart “In, out In, out” He kept his gaze locked with hers, holding her in place with his will “That’s it You’ve got it That’s better”

Once the rushing noise in her ears began to fade and strength returned to her legs, she wet her lips with her tongue “I’m okay now”

“Yes You are” He took a step back, still holding her hand to his chest as he shielded her from the world “What did your mom say?”

Rachel sed hard, but with each passing second, she felt the walls inside her rebuilding, brick by brick “Father’s had another heart attack They’re in central London, in hospital She said he was going to be fine, but…”

He leaned in to ainst her ear “Give ht now LetI know it You know it Let’s show the world”

She nodded, and he backed up again Rachel straightened her shoulders and took her hand from his chest “I suspect my blackmailer may have shared some photos with my father,” she said, pleased that her voice sounded even and strong

“Okay” His eyes turned deadly “Has she called your brothers?”

“She didn’t say” Rachel smoothed her suit and brushed her hair over her shoulder

“We can call them from the car”

She was grateful he didn’t suggest going upstairs and telling Jonathan in person She wasn’t ready for that yet “Let’s go I’ht now It was just a shock”

“Come on” He took her hand, and for once, she didn’t complain

As they passed the curious guard and receptionist, Harvard called out, “That’s what happens when you skip lunch She’s fine; we’re going to get soood weekend”