She blew out a breath. “Besides the cartel, I’m not really sure. I’m worried about who I can trust at the Agency, if I’m being truthful. And then you add Bryce on top of that.” She hesitated for a moment. “You know, I thought I had a real friendship with Bryce, but if he’s behind the IG investigation, then that changes everything.”

Kindness shone in Nick’s eyes. “Bryce wanted to cross lines with you, and that only fueled the fire. I still believe you were justified, but it was a bold move to do to a friend.”

She’d lost a lot of sleep over reporting him, but she’d felt compelled. “Do you think I should stay here?”

“I think you should be okay for now. Once we talk to Bryce, I’ll have a much better read on the threat assessment.” He looked at his watch. “Speaking of that, I should be going. I need to get back.”

“You’re going to be involved in questioning him?”

Nick nodded. “Yes. We didn’t end on the best of terms, but I still think the world of you and your ability to contribute to the mission of the Agency. If Bryce has done something to threaten you, then it’s my business to get to the bottom of that.”

“Thank you. I really appreciate all you’re doing to help me.”

“You’re special, Layla. I used to mean a lot of other things when I said that to you, but with the passage of time, I can say it to you in a completely platonic and professional way.”

“I’m glad we’re in a good place, despite the other circumstances.” She believed that he’d gotten past her in the same way she’d moved on from him. Had their relationship ultimately been what she needed? No. But she could sure use his friendship.

After they said their good-byes, a few minutes went by before Hunter came back downstairs wearing a deep scowl.

“I don’t like that guy,” he said.

“I get it. But I actually think he’s looking out for me, and given the circumstances, I’ll take all the friends I can get.”

“I know.” He sighed. “I wish I weren’t jealous, but I can’t help it. It’s one thing to know about people from our pasts, but to actually see them face-to-face makes it much more difficult.”

She took his hands tightly in hers. “Hunter, what we have cuts through all of this. The lies, the past, the pain. What matters is where we are now.”

He pulled her closer to him and wrapped his arms around her. Then he leaned down and whispered in her ear. “You know I’d lay down my life for you. To protect you. It’s all I can think about.”

Her breath caught. “You already have. Hunter, you don’t have anything to prove to me.”