Page 139 of Bound Lies

“Well, I think I might have been wrong about Kieran. He seems to be stepping up. Besides, it’s clear you’ve liked him for a while, so I’m happy that you’re happy.”

“I didn’t think it was that obvious,” I mumble, and Lucy laughs.

“Girl, you’re an open book. But…”

“But what?”

“I mean, does this not complicate things a little?”

“How so?”

Lucy brushes a few flakes of pastry off the table as she avoids my gaze.

“Lucy?”

“Your relationship with Kieran started out as a deal. One where he offered you protection in exchange for dirt on Sean. Dirt which I’m pretty sure you’re still hoarding away?”

“I know. It’s been weighing on my mind ever since Kieran and I started getting closer.”

“So, what’s stopping you from handing it over?”

I shrug, unsure how to put my fears into words. “Maybe I’m not ready to find out what happens after I give it to him. What if I hand it over and then Kieran tosses me aside?”

Lucy's lips curve into a knowing smile. “Or maybe Kieran’s the one who’s not ready to find out what happens after.”

That catches me off guard. “You think so?”

Lucy shrugs. “He could have asked for the evidence by now, but he hasn’t, so there must be a reason.”

I can’t tell if that makes me feel better or worse. “I guess…”

“But if you’re worried about it, just ask him, Riley. I’m sure he’ll give you an honest answer.”

“That’s what I’m afraid of,” I mumble.

At the two-hour mark, Lucy and I promptly leave the café after gouging ourselves on caffeine and sugar and settle back into the safety of the SUV.

Even though Kieran has a tracker on my phone, I still send him a message to let him know I’m on my way home.

Kieran: I’m in a meeting but will be home in an hour. I miss you, little dove x

Lucy peers over my shoulder. “You guys make me gag.”

“That’s what you get for reading people’s private text messages.”

Back at the penthouse, I curl up on the couch and decide to get a head start on the reading list for my fall semester when my inbox dings with an email from one of my professors.

From: [email protected]

Subject: Internship Opportunity

Hi Riley,

I wanted to reach out with an exciting opportunity that I think would be a perfect fit for you. A good friend of mine, Ross Lever, is running a structured internship program starting next semester. The role would involve one day per week of hands-on experience in business analysis and strategic planning.

Given your academic achievements and dedication, I strongly encourage you to apply. This internship could significantly enhance your job prospects after graduation.

If you’re interested, please let me know, and I can facilitate an introduction.