She looked up at him. “I do. I’m not completely naïve. I know the Agency does some highly questionable things, but I am a strong believer in the overall mission. And I think deep in my father’s gut, he would be too. He hates the violence that has riddled the Middle East. He also recognizes that he has it easier than some others because of our beliefs.”

“Isn’t that what made you even more attractive to Langley?” It was clear to him that the Agency had sought after Layla even more because of her strong Christian faith. Her religious beliefs were a topic he was grilled about during his initial interview for her background check.

“Yes, and I’m not ashamed of my faith. At the same time, though, I believe in religious freedom. That’s what our country was founded on. I want everyone to be treated with respect and dignity. That’s what Christ’s example was to all of us. Having said that, religion is often used as a weapon—especially in the Middle East. If I can be a part of stopping heinous acts of terrorism, I will do everything I can—and then some—to do so.”

“I guess your beliefs haven’t changed over the past few years.” He hadn’t really expected that they would.

She shook her head. “No. If anything, seeing what I see every day has drawn me closer to God. Relying on my faith helps get me through difficult times. What about you?”

He wasn’t thrilled to be having this conversation even though he was the one who started it. But he was not going to lie to her—especially about this topic, knowing how important it was to her. “I’ve been doing some reevaluating.”

She frowned. “Are you having doubts?”

They’d had many talks about their shared faith when they were together in law school, but lately Hunter had started to feel numb about the entire thing. “I don’t know how to describe it exactly, but I feel like I’ve hit the pause button.”

“Sometimes you need to take stock and hit reset.”

“Just that easy?”

She shook her head. “I didn’t say it was easy, but it can be necessary. I find myself in a constant dialogue with God about things. I get frustrated and even angry, but at the end of the day, I know where I place my faith and that He will walk with me through it all.”

He wasn’t so sure about that. Hunter felt cold. Distant. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d actually prayed, but dumping all of that on Layla hardly seemed fair.

Her eyes softened. “What is it?”

“Don’t worry about it right now. Take a minute and chill while I call Zane. Then hopefully we can get you out of here soon.”