“Of course you will,” Linda said, smiling faintly.

“But the investigation takes time,” she said. “The suspension stands until the inquiry is complete.”

She knew the airline’s policy.

She had spent thirty years married to my father, who had been a supervisor for the same carrier.

She knew that even a cleared accusation could leave a stain on a pilot’s file.

She knew the union would have to get involved.

She knew the chief pilot would look at me differently.

“You would ruin my career for a vacation?” I asked.

“Not for a vacation,” Linda said. “For your sister.”

I looked at Hannah. “Are you really going to let her do this?”

Hannah looked away, focusing on the large potted palm in the corner of the lobby.

She did not deny it.

She did not tell our mother to stop.

She wanted out of her life for a few weeks, and my career was the currency she was willing to spend.

Luis hung up the desk phone with a soft click.

“Mr. Collins,” Luis said, his voice low and cautious.

“Yes, Luis?” I asked, not turning my head.