Page 163 of Covert Mission
I drag her on top of me. “I’ll just have to show you.”
* * *
“Dude, we wondered if you were going to come.” It’s Evan, and he’s got a beer in one hand and some kind of food stuff in the other.
I came. A lot.
I grin. “Sorry, man. Had other things to attend to.”
He shakes his head. “Eat, then we’ll talk, I have some new intel.”
I guide Camile through the door of Justice’s place.
The instant we step inside, I’m hit with a wave of delicious scents. There’s raucous laughter. The sound makes my heart jolt. It’s been a long damned time since everyone seemed so relaxed. Having Nyx safe and happy is like an elixir.
Add some good food and the excitement of a hunt and you’ve got a heady combination.
I head for the food. “What did you find? I need some of that.”
Nyx holds up a plate that’s piled high with an assortment of colorful things. “It’s sooo good. We found this little place in the next town over. You’ve got to try this. I don’t even know what it’s called. Hey, where’s your friend going?”
I turn to find Camile taking off out the door.
Well, hell. “I’ll be back.”
I catch her a few strides later. “Babe, where are you going?”
“I… uh. I just needed a little air. You know, it’s kind of hot in there and with everyone…”
I turn her into my chest and pull her so close I can feel the rapid flutter of her breath against my neck.
“Remember what I said?”
“Before you ruined my brain or after?”
I chuckle and rub her back. “Before. When I said we both have to talk.”
“I suck at this, Lucas. I’ve been alone for so long.”
I kiss her temple, wishing I could take away whatever has her so rattled. “You’re not anymore, sweetheart.”
There is a soft tap on my arm, and I turn to find Nyx beside me. Worry is drawing her brows together. “Could I have a moment. You know… girl talk time?”
When I shift Camile away from me, there’s a mask of indifference on her face. This alone concerns me. She never looks like that. “Babe, are you okay?”
“Fine.” She extends a hand. “Hello, I’m Camile.”
Nyx smiles softly. In her singsong British-tinted accent, she says, “I’m Nyx, it’s so nice to meet you.”
When Nyx looks at me again, it’s with a nod. “Just a minute. We’ll be right in.”
Camile smiles stiffly. It’s fast and soon snuffed by that façade. “I’m fine. We’ll be right in.”
Shit.Why do I feel so nervous about this? Like I’m letting two wary animals circle each other.
“Alright. I’ll just be inside the door. If you need me, just call out.”
When I turn and walk away, Evan’s by the door, sipping his beer, watching the whole thing. He clutches my shoulder and guides me inside the door. “Let them work it out.”