Page 118 of Shadow Operative

He hadn’t been able to get that kiss out of his mind.

He knew it was foolish, yet he couldn’t stop himself from dwelling on it.

With that one act, he was suddenly starting to imagine himself with a real life. One that didn’t revolve around work and covert assignments. Instead, he pictured one where he actually felt happy.

No, not just happy. But full of joy and peace.

In every scenario that ran through his head, Nia was a part of it. Could the two of them possibly have a future together?

Maybe that was something they could figure out before he left this area.

And he wasn’t leaving here until he had answers about Rob.

This morning, Gage hoped to review some of the items they’d taken from Rob’s apartment last night.

Maybe the answers were there.

They had to figure out exactly what to do about Sophia before eleven.

He’d had Austin check, and the woman truly was missing. These guys must have grabbed Sophia. Thankfully, it appeared they were keeping her alive.

But he and Nia would need to plan their next steps carefully.

Gage showered and wandered back into the kitchen, searching for something to eat.

At seven, Nia emerged from her room, already dressed and appearing as if she’d been awake for a while. If Gage had to guess, she hadn’t been able to sleep.

Gage’s smile faltered as soon as he saw her tense expression.

Something had changed. But what?

Nia glanced at him before averting her gaze. Then she paused beside the breakfast bar. “Hey.”

Gage moved, shifting to stand in front of her. More than anything, he wanted to take her into his arms again.

But he knew better.

Instead, he waited for her to say more, to explain her distant attitude.

After a moment, she looked up and drew in a deep breath before asking, “Anything new?”

He swallowed the lump in his throat. “No. I’m hoping we can work on some things this morning.”

“We don’t have much time.” Her voice sounded strained.

“I know. If you bring me the information we took from Rob’s, we can study it together. Two heads are better than one, right?”

Nia nodded, that far-off look still in her eyes. “That sounds like a plan.”

She started to step away, to go to her room to retrieve it when he touched her arm.

She stiffened, and Gage dropped his hand, shoving it back into his pocket.

Something was definitely going on—though he had no idea what.

He studied her pinched expression before asking, “Is this about your sister? I know this has to be unnerving.”

Nia’s gaze wavered a moment before she nodded. “I’m worried about her.”

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