“We’re working together right now,” Layla said. “The more important question is why you’re here. How did you find me?”
Nick looked at her. “Frank and I talked. I got him to reveal your location because I have some breaking intel you’re going to want to know. I thought it best delivered face-to-face.”
That got her attention. “What is it?”
“We know who set you up for the IG investigation.”
“Who?” Her voice cracked.
“It was Bryce Wixom.”
Her stomach dropped as a feeling of dread filled her body. “Are you sure Bryce betrayed me?” Even as she asked the question, she knew the answer wasn’t going to exonerate her old friend. She couldn’t afford to live in denial.
“We have a team bringing Bryce in as we speak.”
“Would he really go to such elaborate lengths to set me up?”
“You did destroy his Agency career,” Nick said flatly.
“And I was completely justified in doing so. He was the one playing fast and loose with the rules. Rules that were put in place to protect us all and make sure we don’t become a bunch of lawless mercenaries willing to flip for the highest dollar.”
Nick touched her shoulder. “I’m not saying you didn’t do the right thing. I’m just speaking to Bryce’s motivation.” He dropped his hand. “We’ll know a lot more after Bryce is questioned.”
She nodded. “Is the direction from Langley for me to stay put?”
“It is,” Nick said. “But can I speak with you privately?”
Hunter looked at her for permission.
“It’s fine, Hunter.”
“I’ll just be upstairs.” Hunter reluctantly walked away.
Once Hunter was gone, Nick moved closer to her.
“There’s something else?” As if all of this wasn’t enough.
“Something seems very off here, and I can’t put my finger on it. Are you sure you can trust Hunter?”
“Yes,” she answered with zero hesitation. “He saved my life. I wouldn’t be standing here right now without him.”
Nick touched her arm. “I know you have strong feelings for him. It was obvious when we were together that you still loved him, but I worry about you, and I want to make sure you’re thinking clearly.”
He seemed to be coming from a sincere place, and she saw his point of view. “It means a lot to me that you care enough to say those things, and I can see why you’d worry, but I can promise you that the threats coming at me are not from Hunter.”
Nick looked down. “Where do you think they’re coming from?”
She blew out a breath. “Besides the cartel, I’m not really sure. I’m worried about who I can trust at the Agency, if I’m being truthful. And then you add Bryce on top of that.” She hesitated for a moment. “You know, I thought I had a real friendship with Bryce, but if he’s behind the IG investigation, then that changes everything.”
Kindness shone in Nick’s eyes. “Bryce wanted to cross lines with you, and that only fueled the fire. I still believe you were justified, but it was a bold move to do to a friend.”
She’d lost a lot of sleep over reporting him, but she’d felt compelled. “Do you think I should stay here?”
“I think you should be okay for now. Once we talk to Bryce, I’ll have a much better read on the threat assessment.” He looked at his watch. “Speaking of that, I should be going. I need to get back.”
“You’re going to be involved in questioning him?”
Nick nodded. “Yes. We didn’t end on the best of terms, but I still think the world of you and your ability to contribute to the mission of the Agency. If Bryce has done something to threaten you, then it’s my business to get to the bottom of that.”
“Thank you. I really appreciate all you’re doing to help me.”
“You’re special, Layla. I used to mean a lot of other things when I said that to you, but with the passage of time, I can say it to you in a completely platonic and professional way.”
“I’m glad we’re in a good place, despite the other circumstances.” She believed that he’d gotten past her in the same way she’d moved on from him. Had their relationship ultimately been what she needed? No. But she could sure use his friendship.
After they said their good-byes, a few minutes went by before Hunter came back downstairs wearing a deep scowl.
“I don’t like that guy,” he said.
“I get it. But I actually think he’s looking out for me, and given the circumstances, I’ll take all the friends I can get.”
“I know.” He sighed. “I wish I weren’t jealous, but I can’t help it. It’s one thing to know about people from our pasts, but to actually see them face-to-face makes it much more difficult.”
She took his hands tightly in hers. “Hunter, what we have cuts through all of this. The lies, the past, the pain. What matters is where we are now.”
He pulled her closer to him and wrapped his arms around her. Then he leaned down and whispered in her ear. “You know I’d lay down my life for you. To protect you. It’s all I can think about.”
Her breath caught. “You already have. Hunter, you don’t have anything to prove to me.”
“Don’t I?” His voice cracked.
“No. I told you before. I know the truth. The past is the past. And I love you with all of my heart.”
“Losing you again isn’t something I can even begin to comprehend.”
“Then let’s not even think about that. Let’s focus on moving forward with our lives together.”
“Layla, if Bryce is behind this, you’re going to have to keep me away from him.”
“I don’t think that’s going to be an issue. If the Agency thinks he faked those photos, then there will be consequences.” She placed her head on his chest and took a moment to calm herself.
He pulled back for a second and placed his hands on her face. “I love you, Layla. I don’t know what else to say.”
“That’s all you need to say.” Her heart felt like it
