Page 37 of Girl Betrayed

“I think it’s been established that we’re both good at our jobs,” Jake rebutted, holding Hartwell’s stare.

“Fine.” He picked up his desk phone and dialed an extension. Jake couldn’t hear the voice on the other end, but Hartwell’s message was clear. “I need you in my office,” was all he said before hanging up.

Jake was momentarily wondering if he was about to get a police escort out of the building. But when a fresh-faced officer poked his head in, Jake regained his composure. He had about a hundred pounds on the officer, leaving him confident he could still walk out with his dignity.

“Lennox, I need you to make one copy of each of these pages. Go directly to the copier and directly back, and if you show anyone else what’s on these pages, I’ll assign you to the drunk tank for the rest of your career.”

“Got it,” Lennox said, taking the notebook and hurrying away.

Hartwell opened the folders on his desk. “You’ve got till he gets back.”

Jake grinned. “That’s all I need.”

26

Claire cameinto the kitchen wearing Dana’s clothes. The oversized black sweater and leggings only made the girl’s slim frame look even smaller. Dana wanted to say something flattering, but she’d never been the flattering type.

Instead, she offered, “I can take you to pick up your things from storage tomorrow if you’d like.”

“Thanks,” Claire replied, taking a seat at the kitchen island.

Dana placed a piping hot bowl of butternut bisque in front of Claire. “Speaking of tomorrow, Dr. Dvita said he’s having a group meeting at St. Ann’s if you’re interested. He’s opened it to all his patients from Passages.”

“Yes. I’d like that.”

Dana served herself a bowl of soup and took a seat next to Claire. She stirred her spoon, wondering how best to start a conversation about Claire’s rehab. She didn’t want to come off as prying, but she wanted Claire to know she could talk to her. Dana blew on her soup, wishing she’d had more time with her own mother, so she’d be better equipped to handle difficult discussions.

Dana was only thirteen when she lost her parents. Their memories faded with each year that passed. She was determined not to let that happen with Claire.

Her friend was right here in front of her, and Dana was going to fight to hold on to their memories, so they’d have a chance at making more.

“Anyone particular you’re hoping to see at St. Ann’s tomorrow?” she asked.

Claire shrugged.

“Do you think Max will be there?”

Claire’s gaze slid to meet Dana’s. “Why do you say it like that?”

“Like what?” Dana asked.

“Like you think I know something I’m not saying?”

Dana put her spoon down. “I don’t think that.”

Suspicion crept into Claire’s voice. “What did Dr. Dvita say to you?”

“We discussed the importance of continuing your treatment, especially after what you just witnessed.”

She huffed a bitter laugh. “Let me guess, you think it made me more damaged than I already am?”

“No one thinks you’re damaged, Claire.”

“You do. It’s why you’re lying to me right now. I despise liars. I thought you did, too. That’s why I wanted to work for you. To shed light on the darkness. Isn’t that what you always say? Or was that a lie, too?”

“Claire … I …” Dana stammered, at a loss for words.

She’d been so shocked by Claire’s sudden mood swing that she hadn’t even heard Jake come in, but his booming voice preceded him. “There’s my favorite girls.” He strode over to Dana and Claire and gave their shoulders a squeeze. “What’s for lunch? I’m starved.”

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