The Missing Heir(102)
It had taken all of Cole’s self-control to stay quiet and seated. Now he shot up from his seat and rushed from the courtroom, keeping his gaze straight ahead as he passed through the gallery. He needed to bring his anger under control before he spoke with anyone.
He took long strides through the foyer, out onto the sidewalk, turning down the block where he could disappear into the crowd. He drew long breaths of the crisp air, trying desperately to clear his rioting emotions.
“Mr. Henderson?” a voice called from behind.
Cole didn’t turn. The last thing in the world he needed right now was another nosey reporter. He wove through the busy sidewalks, lengthening his stride to put some distance between them.
“Mr. Henderson?” the voice repeated.
Cole took two more paces then decided to put an end to the intrusion. He pivoted, spread his feet and clenched his fists by his sides. “Do you mind—”
“Sorry to bother you. I’m Kevin Kent, president of Cambridge Airlines.” The fiftysomething man huffed as he caught up.
The introduction surprised Cole.
“We’re based out of London, England,” said the man, holding out a business card.
Cole didn’t take it. He didn’t want to talk to anyone, not a reporter, not an airline executive, not Destiny, not anyone.
“Is there something I can do for you?” he snarled.
The traffic rolled past them, echoing against the pavement, while groups of pedestrians parted to go around.
“I’ve been watching the proceedings in the courtroom.”
Cole didn’t respond to the statement. The courtroom had been packed for a day and half, with a lineup outside. It seemed most of the city was watching the proceedings.
“I know you’re taking a beating, but my money’s on you.”
If Kevin Kent wanted a thank-you for the vote of confidence, he was going to be disappointed.
“I’ve spent some time looking into your Alaska holdings,” he continued. “Do you have a second to talk?”
“Here? Now? You want to talk about Alaska?” Who cared about Alaska? Zachary’s future was on the line.
The man glanced at the multistory buildings around them. “There’s a coffee shop on the corner.”
“I’m not on a coffee break.”
“Right. Okay. I’ll get to it. I know you have a thriving airline in Alaska. That you built it from the ground up, and you have a partner and friend in that business with you.”
Cole was getting impatient. So Kevin Kent could do an internet search. Big deal.
“When this court case ends, if you win, you’re going to have a big decision to make.”
Cole crossed his arms over his chest. No kidding. What else had the man deduced?
“I’m banking on you winning,” said Kevin. “And I’m banking on your loyalty to Aviation 58.”
“Are you working up to a point, Mr. Kent?”