Page 44 of Keeping Lilith

Lilith sighed at Cass’s immediate response. “I’m fine, but why did you think the only reason I was calling was because I needed help?”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to upset you. I guess it’s because everyone is away that I’m extra jumpy for whatever reason.”

It wasn’t difficult to hear the worry in Cass’s voice, and Lilith felt bad for pointing out what she had. “I’m sorry too. I shouldn’t have said anything.”

“No, it’s fine. And you totally should say if something or someone upsets you. How are you doing anyway? Any luck on the job front?”

Here was the opening she needed to explain what she’d found. “Not really. I haven’t looked in the last couple of days. Umm, did Julian mention anything to you?”

“Are you talking about the job listing you found?”

Relief swept through her. Julian had said something, even though he hadn’t said he would. As far as she knew, he was only going to tell his colleagues, but she’d hoped he would at least mention it to Cass. “Yes, I am.”

“Seeing that must have brought up a lot of memories for you. After you told me about how The Hopeful Sunshine had recruited you, I did a quick look on some job sites, but nothing stood out. Having looked at the ad you saw, I would’ve totally skipped it as irrelevant. Or thought it was a bit too good to be true. What about it stood out to you?”

“Some phrases in the ad were the same as the flyer I’d found at work. This ad said new adventures, whereas the one that got me said new career paths were available.”

In the background came thetap tapof the keyboard—Cass working her magic. “Are you doing anything right now?” Cass asked.

“Not really.”

“Can you come to the office? I want to see if you can help me as I look deeper into it.”

“Yes. That’s really the reason I was calling you. I wanted to talk about this. I was going to explain it all, but that’s not necessary now.”

“Yeah, Julian bcc’d me into the email he sent to the tech guys at the FBI. If they were any good, they would’ve worked out he’d done it, but they don’t tend to look deep—even though they should.”

“Unlike you, who does all that, I’m guessing?”

Cass laughed. “Of course, I’ve worked for the government. I know how they operate. Anyway, that was a lifetime ago. Do you need me to come and get you?”

“No, it’s all good. I’ll call for a ride.”

“Seriously, it’s not an issue. I can come get you.”

“Cass, thank you, but no. By the time you get here, I could be at the office helping you. Trust me, it will be quicker this way.” Lilith knew what would tip Cass over into letting her make her own way to downtown LA. “I’m wearing my necklace.”

Lilith didn’t think she need to elaborate on what necklace she was wearing. Cass would get the message.

“Right. That’s good. I’ll see you soon then. Text me when you get in the car.”

“Will do. See you soon.”

The call ended, and Lilith tossed the phone on the couch beside her, glad she’d made the call. Getting out of the house was just what she needed and being able to help Cass was going to make her feel useful. Worthwhile.

Initially, the idea of working in an office hadn’t appealed, but that could’ve been because she hadn’t done it before. Hadn’t thought she had the skills. Not that she had excellent computer skills now, but there were other things she could do.

Although the idea of being cooped up and not getting fresh air didn’t appeal. Then again, jobs working in gardens weren’t exactly falling from the sky, so perhaps it was time to pivot. Getsomething that would give her some income, and then she could find her dream job in a couple of years.

Lilith pondered her possible career path all the way to Alliez’s offices, not really coming up with a solution at all. It wasn’t something she needed to decide now. Tomorrow, her perfect job could appear, and then she wouldn’t have to pivot at all.

Sighing, she got out of the car and headed for the building, not really surprised when she spied Cass waiting for her in the foyer.

“Hey,” she said as she walked up to the other woman, who pulled her close for a hug.

“Hey, yourself. You’re looking good, Lilith.”

Warmth flooded her cheeks at the compliment. In just the short time she’d been living with Julian, she’d gained some weight and didn’t look like she could be pushed over in a stiff breeze. “Thanks. Amazing what three regular meals will do for a person. I feel better within myself too.”