Still You Still Me Still Falling novel Chapter 41

After all, in a group chat filled mostly with men, bringing up a woman was guaranteed to grab their attention.

"A feisty wildcard? How hot is she? Got any pictures?"

"Yeah, drop a photo so we can see what we're working with."

"Why bother chasing her? Just hook up with her. It's just a woman—sleep with her once and she'll be clinging to you. If not, hit it a few more times."

"Wow, Marcus is striking out? She must be an absolute stunner."

...

The messages flooded in.

Marcus Wagner typed out a reply: Gorgeous. But ice-cold. She's a brilliant academic, a researcher.

"An ice queen with brains? That's hot!"

"Damn, you're making me jealous. When are you bringing her out for us to meet?"

Marcus stared at the screen. They were all just hyping each other up; no one was actually giving him any useful advice.

That was, until Thurston Golding dropped a single, cryptic text: Sheila?

Marcus's stomach tightened. He couldn't shake the feeling that Thurston's tone had been entirely off the last time he mentioned her name.

He quickly replied: Yeah, that's her.

Thurston: Stop filling this chat with your toxic garbage. Back off and get back to work!

After sending the text, Thurston tossed his phone onto the table.

He glanced over at Edmond Halley.

It was a rare feat to drag Edmond out for drinks, but the man looked utterly disinterested.

With lowered eyes, his gaze seemed fixed on his glass, his entire demeanor radiating an unapproachable, icy distance.

"What's wrong, work wearing you down?" Thurston asked, gesturing at him. "You look completely lifeless."

Edmond gave him a flat look. "You're not exactly glowing yourself."

Edmond's footsteps paused.

Seeing he had his attention, Thurston pushed his idea. "There's nothing a good trip can't fix. And if it doesn't, just extend the trip."

Edmond asked, "Got any recommendations?"

"If you trust me, I'll set the whole thing up," Thurston promised.

Edmond resumed his long strides. "Make it happen."

Watching him walk away, Thurston pulled out his phone and dialed Pippa Golding. "I'm giving you one last shot. If you mess this up, you can forget about him forever, got it?"

Hearing his plan, Pippa practically jumped for joy on the other end of the line. "Thurston, you're the absolute best!"

Thurston rubbed his temples, already regretting it. "Don't flatter me. You're going to be the death of me."

Two days later, a commercial jet sliced through the clouds, heading straight across the ocean.

Meanwhile, Sheila Jensen had just been dragged out to dinner by her assistant, Faith.