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“No need, I will just speak to my friend.”

She nods. I already accessed her resume online. I also searched for pictures and only found a few from her college days, nothing after that.

“Must be nice, to just call a friend and get a job,” she jokes, making me chuckle.

“I guess we can call it calling in a favor,” I say, smirking, and she laughs.

“I trust your judgment, and thank you.”

“You are welcome.”

She nods and returns to eating her food. We finish eating and clean up the plates. She insists on washing the dishes. I decide to dry them. Standing this close to her, I feel the potent urge to pull her into my arms. Her scent is invading my senses. I need to talk about something; I grip the dishcloth tight and keep my focus on the plate.

I dislike bringing this up, but I need to know what I’m up against.

Why?

Because I fucking need to know everything about her.

“How long were you and Amrit together?” I ask.

“About four months. I had a woman before Amrit, but we didn’t get along.”

“Were you two dating?” I ask.

She stops washing the dishes and turns to me and, to my surprise, bursts into laughter. Fuck, I like watching her laugh.

“I’m not Amrit’s type; Amrit had a girlfriend.”

You are most men’s type with that radiant smile, sexy curves, soft brown skin, and ass that I want to grab. Stop it, I mentally chastise my mind. She is Jonah’s girl.

“Interestingly, her name is Alexis. He used to joke that he was born to protect all who are named Alexis. He really loved her.” Her voice chokes. “I can’t even grieve with her because I must fight to stay alive; otherwise, his death would be a waste.” A tear drops. I can’t control my urge; I gently wipe it away.

“You will return to your life someday soon,” I assure her, yet my whole being shudders at the thought of her leaving.

“If I survive, and if it still exists. I have cut all contact with my friends, so they won’t be in my crossfire. The only person I have is Jonah,” she cries.

“You have me now, and my team,” I say, pulling her into my arms. Even as my mind screams what the fuck are you doing? I can’t resist the yearning to comfort her any longer. She fits perfectly in my arms. I let her cry for a while before she pulls away from me.

“Thank you. I’m usually not this much of a waterworks; my reality scares me.”

“I understand, and I’ll help to make it as easy as possible.”

She nods.

“The night is still young. What did you and Amrit used to do?”

She chuckles.

“If he’s not talking to Lexi or training me on how to fight back, he likes to watch reality shows, and I dislike them. Our compromise was me watching reality shows with him while he helped with my puzzles.”

“What do you like to watch?” I ask.

“Sci-fi movies.”

“Well then, let’s watch a sci-fi. Any favorites?”

“I like Dune.”