The Enigma Stolen

What’s up that we need a private call? Do we have problems?” asked Julie.

Petra smiled as she said, “You do look fresh and rested. Married life agrees with you.

“To answer your question, Jules, we sort of have an issue we wanted to discuss. Not a problem, at least not yet.”

Julie’s smile faded just a shade as she nodded then murmured, “Go on.”

“We had a group meeting, and some concerns were raised with regards to both Juan and EZ and how much of the family business they are aware of. Jacob and I have a little different situation than you guys, and so we all wanted to get your take and perhaps establish some of the rules of the highway.

“You and I know that Mom was not informed, even when she first started to work for Dad as his executive assistant. He kept much of the details, especially with the delicate relationships of powerful people, such as Chairman Chang, away from her. At this point she is aware, but the details don’t really interest her, as she focuses on other aspects of the business where she specifically contributes. It has been the family that knows the details or at least has access to them.”

Julie nodded and smiled a bit, as she responded, “So your concern is, what aspects have I discussed with my adorable husband, as pillow talk? Well, none of course. Thus far, he hasn’t asked a question that I can’t answer honestly, though sometimes some of the details are not included. For us that works. He has some aspects of his past that he chooses not to share either. I accept that, for now.

“Quip, how about you? Have you had to avoid answering any of EZ’s questions?”

Quip paused thoughtfully then responded, “No. Like you, I am answering the questions but not providing a great deal of detail. She has not pressed me yet. I would like to give her a framework now that she has moved to Zurich. I don’t really know where the line is, and, as you all know, I am not exactly an open book.”

Jacob muttered, “That is an understatement. Like pulling teeth.”

“It is a tough subject,” Petra continued, “and keeping secrets from those you love is difficult. I do recall when I first worked with Jacob, it took everything I had not to tell him the details, and I knew he was rightful family. Julie, you’re married now. Juan may want the details, but some details could make him vulnerable or risk