Nick’s blue eyes flashed with recognition. He frowned. “I didn’t expect to see you here.”

“We’re working together right now,” Layla said. “The more important question is why you’re here. How did you find me?”

Nick looked at her. “Frank and I talked. I got him to reveal your location because I have some breaking intel you’re going to want to know. I thought it best delivered face-to-face.”

That got her attention. “What is it?”

“We know who set you up for the IG investigation.”

“Who?” Her voice cracked.

“It was Bryce Wixom.”

Her stomach dropped as a feeling of dread filled her body. “Are you sure Bryce betrayed me?” Even as she asked the question, she knew the answer wasn’t going to exonerate her old friend. She couldn’t afford to live in denial.

“We have a team bringing Bryce in as we speak.”

“Would he really go to such elaborate lengths to set me up?”

“You did destroy his Agency career,” Nick said flatly.

“And I was completely justified in doing so. He was the one playing fast and loose with the rules. Rules that were put in place to protect us all and make sure we don’t become a bunch of lawless mercenaries willing to flip for the highest dollar.”

Nick touched her shoulder. “I’m not saying you didn’t do the right thing. I’m just speaking to Bryce’s motivation.” He dropped his hand. “We’ll know a lot more after Bryce is questioned.”

She nodded. “Is the direction from Langley for me to stay put?”

“It is,” Nick said. “But can I speak with you privately?”

Hunter looked at her for permission.

“It’s fine, Hunter.”

“I’ll just be upstairs.” Hunter reluctantly walked away.

Once Hunter was gone, Nick moved closer to her.

“There’s something else?” As if all of this wasn’t enough.

“Something seems very off here, and I can’t put my finger on it. Are you sure you can trust Hunter?”

“Yes,” she answered with zero hesitation. “He saved my life. I wouldn’t be standing here right now without him.”

Nick touched her arm. “I know you have strong feelings for him. It was obvious when we were together that you still loved him, but I worry about you, and I want to make sure you’re thinking clearly.”

He seemed to be coming from a sincere place, and she saw his point of view. “It means a lot to me that you care enough to say those things, and I can see why you’d worry, but I can promise you that the threats coming at me are not from Hunter.”

Nick looked down. “Where do you think they’re coming from?”