Fatally Yours

Chapter 8

•INDIANA•

We'd been driving for about half an hour, never stopping once after leaving the port, just racing down a clear highway without saying a word to each other.

He was driving at a normal speed, one that I didn't mind, but if I had a car like this and a hot girl in the passenger seat, I'd be driving faster to impress.

Well, maybe I spoke too soon because when Lee suddenly sped past the usual limit, I started shifting uncomfortably in my seat.

"Personally," Lee began, his voice calm and smooth, "I don't believe in coincidences."

I glanced at him out of the corner of my eye and found him already looking at me. The car sped up even more, and I quickly looked back at the road.

"I also don't believe in random girls wanting to join the big leagues for a good pay cut," Lee continued.

I twisted in my seat to face him, his eyes locked on mine. The road ahead was completely forgotten.

"To be clear, I just wanted a chance to get to know you. I'm a huge fan," I said.

He briefly turned his attention back to the road, and I noticed his jaw tighten.

"How about we stop playing games and get to the point? I know you stole my car to get my attention. What is it that you really want, Nova West?"

I clenched my fists tightly in my lap. Before I could respond, the car swerved sharply, catching me off guard. My shoulder slammed against the door, sending a sharp bolt of pain through my body.

I quickly masked my pained expression, trying to seem more obviously uncomfortable with his driving. In another situation, I'd be thrilled to test this car's limits, but right now, my life was still on the line.

"I have certain skills that aren't suited for surveillance work," I replied calmly. "Things have changed since I've been away. There used to be ten or twelve potential employers for someone like me. Now, it seems there's only one."

He looked back at me, and I held his gaze.

"You," I finished.

The car slowed a little, though it was still fast enough for me.

"Just to be clear, I'm not expecting a pension plan or healthcare. Just a chance to impress."

He chuckled and looked away, which I took as a good sign.

"If it's a question of needing references, I'd be happy to get you some," I added quickly.

He dragged his eyes away from the road and looked at me again.

"No need. My guys are already working on that as we speak. But from everything you've said, I could use someone with your skill set."

I smiled. "You won't regret it."

"We'll see, won't we?" he replied, picking up his phone from the cup holder and dialing a number.

"Hiko," he said into the phone. "Go take care of that business we discussed."

I frowned, confused, as we pulled up in front of a building. Lee parked the car and smiled, nodding for me to get out as well.

I stepped out and immediately noticed two black SUVs pulling up behind us. Three men stepped out of the first vehicle and started walking toward us.

I glanced around the neighborhood and noticed a grey car parked across the street, its windows tinted. Keith had done a good job blending in while following us closely.