Laura took a breath. “I was furious right up until I realized that I was also free. Then I was angry, but more at myself than you. I’d gotten exactly what I wanted, and I also got to tell my father who I was. Or well, you did, you asshole, but I finished the job. And now I get to be with Siena. See if we can really make it work. So take the damned money, Nate. It was the only good thing you were ever going to get out of knowing me.”
“That’s not true.”
“Thanks for saying so.” Laura finished her drink, fished out cash for the bill, and started putting on her coat. “Stay out of trouble?”
“I will,” Nathan promised, and he stood when Laura did, blocking her exit. “Stay in touch? Please?”
“I’ll send you a postcard.” Laura’s smile threatened and then struck. “Covered in naked Italian women.”
“Deal.” Nathan opened his arms, and he held Laura for the last time. The final piece of his old world order was about to fly away, and for a second, he wanted, against all odds, to go with her.