“They must think they have something on you. You’ll need to go back through your work and see if you cut any corners. Did anything that could cause red flags.”

Layla already knew the answer to that. She played by the rules. Always. It was one of her qualities that she thought would hamper her ability to be an operations officer. Integrity meant something to her. “I understand.”

“I’m sorry that I’ve made things worse for you, but I thought you needed to know about the cartel. You should watch your back. Rely on your training.”

Even though Layla had never intended to be more than an analyst, she’d gone through training at the Farm because the CIA insisted. Now maybe that training was going to be put to good use. “I’ll be on guard, believe me.”

“Good. Because your life may depend on it.”

Hunter arrived at the hospital and, after pushing through some red tape, found out where Layla was. When he got to her room, he heard a female voice talking in hushed tones. Taking a deep breath, he knocked before peeking his head inside.

Hunter didn’t recognize the tall, slender brunette with glasses by Layla’s side. But his eyes immediately went to Layla. Alive . . . she was alive. Yes, Elijah had told him that, but he had to confirm it with his own eyes.

Even though he could tell Layla was injured, she still looked gorgeous. Her long, wavy black hair flowed past her shoulders. When she made eye contact with him, neither of them said a word.

The woman walked over to him and stretched out her hand. “Scarlett Bell. You must be a friend of Layla’s.”

He took her hand. “Hunter McCoy.”

As he said his name, he saw a flash of recognition in Scarlett’s eyes. Unfortunately, she knew exactly who he was.

“I’ll be back later to check on you. I’m going to see Viv.” Scarlett leaned down and whispered something in Layla’s ear before making her way to the door.

Hunter turned his attention to Layla and walked over to her bedside. “I know I don’t have any right to be here, but when I heard you were injured in the attack, I had to come.”

She didn’t immediately respond, and an awkward silence filled the room. Would she tell him to hit the road? Or worse? He clenched his fists by his sides and hoped she would say something soon.

“How did you even know I was here?” she asked softly.

“Elijah works for Alexandria PD. He told me.” He knew Layla would remember Elijah, given how much time she’d spent around him back when they were together.