“Perfect. But I’m glad you found someone here you feel comfortable talking with. Friends are important.” He checked his watch. “I have to run, but why don’t you think about our chat, and I’ll call you later tonight to see if you have any more questions? I don’t want you to worry, and I surely don’t want anything to hurt our friendship.”

Her irises began to shimmer. “Me neither. I owe you so much. I would never have gotten a scholarship here if you hadn’t gone to bat for me.”

“I’ve always believed in helping those who are willing to work hard and who stay away from the vices that are rampant in our society today.”

That much was true, at least. It was how he’d lived his life.

“I know. Everyone knows that.” She stood. “Thank you for not being angry.”

“Anger is a wasted emotion.” He stood too. “May I call you about nine? To clear up any other questions that come to mind?”

“What if I don’t have any?”

He winked. “Then I expect it will be a short conversation.”

The corners of her mouth tipped up. “Okay. I’ll talk to you later.”

He crossed to the door and pulled it open. “Take care—and God go with you.”

The standard send-off he gave those who came to him in search of guidance tripped off his tongue. Most people found comfort in it.

Truth be told, he could use comforting himself on this Tuesday afternoon.

For as he watched Kayla walk away, unease slithered through him.

Yes, she’d seemed to accept his explanation.

Yes, she’d assured him she hadn’t told anyone about her concerns.

Yes, she’d agreed they were friends.

Plus, he was poised to do more damage control later to chase away any lingering doubts.

The situation appeared to be under control.

But what if she decided to share her experience with someone else she trusted, despite his request to keep their exchange confidential?

Someone like her roommate.

A girl who didn’t know him and who could be more prone to suspicion.

A girl who could mention it to Martinez.

That would create a very, very dangerous situation.

Tyrone drew in a long, slow breath and circled around his desk.

There had been too many glitches in the past few weeks. Too many complications. Too many developments that could jinx their operation.

Much as he wanted the income from tomorrow’s shipment, waiting around until the money came in suddenly felt far too risky.

Maybe he should get out even sooner than the accelerated departure he’d already been contemplating.

Much sooner.

Exactly when depended on the vibes he got from his conversation with Kayla tonight.

He slid his papers into his briefcase. Put on his coat. Flipped off the light in his office.

His first order of business as soon as he got home?