But during the three years they’d dated, she’d never once seen Hunter drunk. He was measured in almost all areas of his life. Yeah, he liked danger and adventure—like jumping out of a plane or racing fast cars—but when it came to his social life, his explanation of what had happened always left her feeling like she had never really known him the way he’d known her. And that was one of the things that broke her heart the most.

“Earth to Layla. Let’s do this thing.”

“Sorry.” She put those thoughts out of her mind and got ready to deal with the problem at hand. She thought she’d had a solid friendship with Bryce, but it couldn’t withstand her reporting him.

“I’m going to directly confront him,” Hunter said. “I’m not expecting him to confess if he is really involved in this, but I want you to be able to see his response. I want your read on him.”

“I got it.”

They were met by a receptionist in the main floor lobby. “How can I help you?” she asked in a singsong voice.

“We’re here to see Bryce Wixom.”

“Do you have an appointment?” Her blue eyes locked on to Hunter.

“Just please tell him that Layla Karam is here to see him.”

She arched an eyebrow but didn’t respond as she picked up the phone and made the call. After a few yeses, she hung up. “You can go up to the tenth floor. Someone there will meet you.”

“Thank you.” Hunter smiled at the receptionist, and it probably made her day.

They walked toward the elevator.

“See, I told you,” Hunter murmured.

“Not so fast, big shot. We haven’t actually seen him yet.” Bryce wasn’t one to underestimate.

“Don’t be such a pessimist. We’ve got this.” Hunter pushed the button, and after a few moments, they walked into the lobby of the tenth floor, where they were greeted by another receptionist, this one much younger.

“You’re here to see Mr. Wixom. Please follow me.”

They trailed behind the petite brunette down a long hallway to an office on the right. She knocked, and Bryce stood up. His eyes lit up when he saw Layla, but then he frowned when he saw she wasn’t alone.

“Thanks, Nancy,” Bryce said. “Come on in. I’m afraid we haven’t met before.” He stretched out his hand.

“I’m Hunter McCoy.”

“Bryce Wixom. Please have a seat.”

They all sat down, and Layla prepared herself for the conversation.

Bryce adjusted his fancy cuff links. “What brings the two of you down here today?”

Before Layla could answer, Hunter spoke. “Do you know anything about the IG investigation launched against Layla?”

Bryce’s brown eyes widened. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.” He turned to Layla. “What is this about, Lay?”