Page 53 of Death Wish

Simone studied her friend. “You’re good at the work, Joy. Why hasn’t anyone tapped you for this division?”

“I’m not in your class.” She shrugged. “We both know it’s true. I’m not complaining, though. I enjoy grunt work. Someone has to do it.”

“It’s the Special Projects division’s loss.”

“That’s nice of you to say although it’s not true.”

Jesse walked into the cafeteria and made a beeline for Simone. He kissed her before taking his seat. “Thanks for getting my lunch. Did I miss anything?”

“Did you ever,” Joy crowed. “Griffin Daley asked Simone to stop by his office after lunch. He wants to talk to her.”

His gaze locked with Simone’s. “Did he say what he wants?”

She shook her head.

“Worried?”

“Why should she be worried?” Joy asked. “The Special Projects division is exactly where Simone should be. I’ve seen no one as fast as Simone. They’ll be lucky to have her.”

“I agree.” Jesse squeezed Simone’s hand and dug into his meal. “Let me know how it turns out. Joy, how was your night?”

“Quiet, thanks to Mateo.”

His eyebrows rose. “Did he stay with you?”

Her cheeks flushed. “No, of course not. He checked on me frequently through the night.”

“And?” Simone teased. “Tell Jesse the rest.”

“We’re going on a date tonight after work.”

“That’s great. Congratulations.” Jesse opened a bottle of water and chugged down half of it. “I ran a background check on him. He’s a good guy, Joy.”

“Simone told me. Thanks for doing that. I feel better knowing you did.”

“Let me know if you need me to dig deeper. I did a standard check but nothing popped up as hinky.”

“I will if something feels off tonight.” Her color deepened. “He messaged me twice this morning to check on me. It’s sweet.”

“I’m happy for you, Joy.” Simone smiled at her friend. “He sounds amazing.”

“Almost too good to be true.” Some of Joy’s happiness dimmed. “What if I’m wrong?”

“You’re smart. If something is wrong, you’ll know.”

“I hope nothing happens. I really like him.”

By the time they finished lunch, butterflies flew in Simone’s stomach. This interview with Daley had to work. Simone hoped the meeting was an invitation to join his department. If not, she didn’t know what else to do but engage in a little B & E to find what they needed.

After disposing of her tray and lunch detritus, Joy hugged Simone. “I have to return to work. I want to know everything when you’re finished.”

“You got it. See you later.”

Jesse rose and disposed of their trays, then returned for Simone. He held out his hand. “Come on, beautiful. I’ll walk you to the elevator.”

Outside the cafeteria, he clasped her hand and walked her to a small alcove where he took Simone in his arms. “Are you ready for this?” he murmured.

“I have to be. What other choice do I have?”

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