Fatally Yours

Chapter 54

•INDIANA•

The next few days passed quietly, though unease lingered beneath the surface. Dominik had told me to take a few days off, to "relax," but I knew it wasn't just about me needing rest.

He wanted me away from the main house—away from Lee—until things cooled down. I understood, even if I hated it. It gave me too much time to think, and thinking wasn't good for someone in my position.

Then Hailey called.

"I'm coming to L.A. for spring break!" she'd announced over the phone, her voice bright and full of excitement.

I tried everything I could to talk her out of it.

"Hailey, it's really not a good time—"

"I already booked my ticket," she interrupted stubbornly, and I could practically hear her smirk. "You're not getting rid of me, sis. I'll be there in two days."

I sighed heavily, torn between worry and the longing to see my sister. I missed her—missed family—but this was not the time. My cover was still intact, but I couldn't risk anything spilling over.

Hailey reassured me she wouldn't get in the way and that I could just "see her after work." If only she knew.

Now, here I was, standing in the middle of LAX with Keith by my side, both of us scanning the crowd for her familiar face. I felt exposed out in the open like this, like every pair of eyes in the airport was watching me.

Focus.

Keith had arranged for a safehouse for me and Hailey to stay in while she was here—neutral ground, away from Dominik and the others. He wasn't taking any chances with security, and neither was I.

"She's late," I muttered to Keith, shifting uncomfortably.

"She'll be here," he replied, calm as always.

He kept a casual posture, but his sharp gaze didn't miss a thing. Keith was the only one who understood the full weight of my assignment because, well, he plays a part in it too.

Then I heard it.

"INDIE!"

The voice rang out loud and clear, echoing over the buzz of airport chatter. I turned quickly and spotted Hailey sprinting toward me, her tall frame easily noticeable in the crowd.

She looked almost out of place here—her slim figure, long legs carrying her effortlessly, and her light brown hair bouncing behind her.

Hailey was all our father, with his height and slim build, but she had our mother's soft features, blue eyes and bright smile.

I barely had time to react before she crashed into me, throwing her arms around my neck.

"Oh my god, I missed you so much!" she squealed, squeezing me tightly.

I let out a small laugh, hugging her back.

"I missed you too, Hails."

Pulling back, she grinned at me, her blue eyes shining with excitement.

"You look good! Tired, but good."

"Gee, thanks," I teased.

Hailey's gaze shifted to Keith, and I cleared my throat, stepping back.

"Hailey, this is Agent Keith. He's... helping me out while you're here."

Keith gave her a polite smile and extended his hand.