Chapter Eleven

Waking up the next morning, Astrid found Darius sitting on his desk and writing swiftly in a large book, a phone placed between his ear and his shoulder.

“I just told you, Joaquin! Call the architects and the civil engineers today. I'll pay any amount. Cancel all my meetings.” He instructed. His voice seemed shaky.

“I don't have time for jokes, dammit!” He shouted over the phone. “She's not doing too well, you know that. I have to see her now.” He stood up and closed the book.

“Yes. I'll call you when I see her. Take care of the office for me.” He hung up and took deep, shaky breaths. Astrid saw that his hands were having serious tremors. He grabbed fistfuls of his hair and turned to the bed.

“What's wrong?” Astrid frowned, standing up.

“My mother. She's sick. I have to go now.” He answered, walking out of the room.

“Let me come with you.” She offered, wanting to see Nikoleta.

“No. Stay right here. I'll be back.” He opened the