As if thinking about his job had conjured his boss, Kent Jackson walked into the gallery. The man towered over everyone and was difficult to miss.
Easily one of the toughest people Joe knew, it was amazing to watch the emotions vibrating in the room pummel the man as he took in the exhibit.
For a long minute, Jackson ignored the people around him and absorbed the art in front of him. When his eyes started to shine, he closed them for a moment.
Joe looked away to give his boss some privacy and grabbed an extra champagne flute. He walked over and handed it to Jackson. The man accepted it with a nod and gestured around the room. “And I thought Josie was made to be a sketch artist. She’s a hell of a lot more than that.”
They chatted for a few minutes when Jackson’s phone buzzed. He shook his head and walked outside to take the call.
Tansy walked up to Joe and hugged him. His little sister had grown up to be an incredible woman. Being with Sam had brought her out of her shell at least a little bit. She didn’t scurry away from crowds and emotions as much anymore.
He hugged her back. “I’m glad you were all able to fly in. I think Josie’s blown away by the response people are having to her art.”
Tansy nodded. “I don’t think she’s used to having anyone in her corner. I’m glad she has Nico now.”
“And you. And the rest of us. She’s got us all now.”
Tansy nodded with shiny eyes, which of course meant Sam was by their side in a second to make sure she was okay.
“Chevy.”
His boss’s voice had Joe turned to find Jackson motioning him to join him outside. So much for the day off.
