This story just kept getting more interesting by the moment, but Izzy couldn’t help but be angry at this Hunter guy, because he’d obviously caused Layla so much pain. The fact that he’d come to see her today made Izzy think there was even more to it. That seemed to be the theme of the day.

After Izzy and Bailey went into the kitchen, Layla turned to Viv. “I hate lying to Izzy, but I think it’s best. I shouldn’t have even made the comment about me being a target. I was speaking too freely around her. I’ll need to be more guarded going forward.”

Viv nodded. “Yeah. Even if we’ve become super close with Izzy, that doesn’t change the stringent requirements you face.” She turned to face Layla on the couch. “You think this has to do with the DEA joint mission you told me about?”

“Given that this is the second incident involving the team, and some additional intel I got from Scarlett, yes.”

“Scarlett came to see me too. She said she was worried about you but didn’t want to get into all the details. There’s more to all of this, isn’t there?”

“Yes, but I’m telling you as much I can right now.” It was for the best to keep some information to herself.

Viv gave an understanding nod. “If Scarlett is worried, then I’m worried. She doesn’t scare easily. Her reputation at State is for being about as hard-nosed as one can be.”

“Yeah. I’m fortunate to have her as a mentor—and a friend. It’s good to have someone watch my back outside of the Agency.” Layla was learning quickly that having people on your side meant everything.

“How many people were on your team?” Viv asked.

“Four, including me.”

“Where does the IG investigation come into this?”

“I’m not sure. I know they were reviewing my actions associated with the WSI case and how I helped Bailey, but I was told pretty soon after that happened that I had followed protocol and that there were no further issues—especially when you consider the Agency’s involvement in all of it. That was supposed to be a done deal.”

“Maybe it isn’t? And those impacted are calling in some favors to exact revenge?”

“But then, why would I be the only one in the crosshairs? What about Bailey and Marco and the rest of the NCIS team, including Izzy?”

Viv grabbed her hand. “The bombing was too close of a call. If there is someone out there who wants to hurt you, and if this was in any way connected to that, then you’re in real danger. You need to figure out how you’re going to protect yourself.”

“I know.”

“You could come stay with me,” Viv offered.