Chapter 20
The Bid With No Hero
Theo signed away Mercer Urban in a corridor with no cameras.
Nora witnessed the transfer because he asked her to, not because he wanted the sacrifice displayed. Employee pensions moved into the restructured firm. His partnership equity became worthless. Malcolm retained the company and lost the Lantern.
At the council hearing, Priya presented programming, Cal presented safety, former Mercer staff presented design, and Nora spoke last.
"This bid does not depend on one generous man, one inspirational woman, or one donor who can change the rules," she said. "That is why it can survive us."
The community plan won by one vote.
Celebration filled the chamber. Theo remained near the back, newly unemployed and deliberately outside the campaign photograph.
Nora found him after everyone left.
"You did not do it to get me back," she said.
"No."
"Good."
His face gave away the cost of the word.
She took one step closer. "Are you free Friday?"
"My calendar is empty most days."
"Friday. Seven. No microphones."
"Is this pity?"
Nora put her hand against his chest, felt the answer he was trying not to demand, and kissed him once.
"That was clarification," she said.
He smiled. "Friday."