Chapter 40
CHAPTER FORTY
ON A MISSION
The snow stopped sometime in the middle of the night.
By the time I woke up, the streets were already cleared, so it’s back to business as usual.
I wake up early and hit the gym located on the third floor of my high-rise.
I prefer running outside, but in snow and slush, I could risk injury—so I work out inside.
After getting in five miles on the treadmill, I feel refreshed.
My puffy feeling is gone, and I think I’ve finally gotten over feeling sick.
It was weird. As soon as MacKenzie texted me back last night, I felt so much better—physically and mentally.
I’m humming as I get into the shower. I shave, brush my teeth, and dress in one of my best suits.
I feel like dressing for success today, even if I don’t have any appointments.
I’m on a mission; I’ve been looking for something for MacKenzie, and it’s proving more difficult than I anticipated.
I’ll turn over every rock I see to find it.
I throw on my coat, scarf, and gloves and head out.
Walking briskly to the south, I find the store I want already open.
I explain why I’m there; they assure me they can take care of everything.
MacKenzie’s surprise for today is going to happen just the way I had hoped.
I jot a note for her, seal the envelope, and leave it for them to include with the gift.
Whistling, I head to the parking garage.
All week, I’ve been visiting places in Chicago’s roughest neighborhoods.
I haven’t had any luck finding what I’m looking for, though.
Today, I’m heading north. The neighborhoods are less questionable to the north, but I refuse to give up.
When my phone rings; I check the display before I answer.
“Hey, Gill. How’s everything going with our little diva? ”
“Good. Nothing to worry about. I’m just checking in, boss.”
“Glad to hear it. How many guys have you got on her today?”
“Two on her, four on her entourage. Jesus, those people are a pain in the ass. I wish you’d talk to her about that Jesse guy. He’s bad news.”
“I’ll see what I can do. I’ll be at the concert tomorrow night and Saturday. I’ll be sure to pay particular attention to him.”
“Good to hear. Any luck?”
“Not yet. Cross your fingers. Right now, I’m heading north.”
“It’d be odd if you found it up north.”
“I agree. It’s a shot in the dark, since I didn’t find it south of the Loop.”
“Keep me posted, boss.”
“Will do. Have a good day, Gill.”
“Same to you, Sam.”
Clicking off, I put all of my attention back on my driving. It’s bumper to bumper on LaSalle and it’s slow going. Though the roads are clear, people are still driving cautiously. Frowning, I remind myself, “This is all worth it if I can find it.”
At noon, I get a text message.
MacKenzie: You did not just buy me a new cell phone.
Me: You’re right. I didn’t buy it—it was free. It was in a swag bag I got from some fund-raiser my mom organized.
MacKenzie: Really? Are you being honest with me?
Me: Really. I am. I’m telling you the truth, the whole truth, so help me God. It’s been sitting in my closet gathering dust—I don’t use that brand.
Not a lie. It’s just going to waste.
MacKenzie: Are you sure? I’m not letting you pay for my cell service.
Me: No. You’re still on your own plan. The phone is an upgrade. Now, you can download the app for your new smart lock. ;)
MacKenzie: I forgot about that.
Me: Everything okay now?
MacKenzie: Yeah. Thank you, Sam. You need to stop doing nice things for me.
Me: Never.