Page 38 of Crossing Lines

“Only because I let you.”

“Or maybe you’re just not as good at self-defense as you think you are.” It’s a total lie, and we both know it. He could’ve stopped me anytime.

“I hope I am.” The amusement from just moments before fades.

“Why?” I ask, not sure what’s going on, why he’s reacting like this.

“Because of the target on my back by being a successful businessman.”

I open my mouth to respond, but the words get stuck at the thought of someone trying to harm him. “Are people after you?”

“Always.”

Something tight squeezes in my chest at the thought of him having to look over his shoulder. “Anything recent?” I demand.

He glances away, and the tightness in my chest increases at his unspoken confirmation.Why didn’t I hear about this before now? How much danger is he in? And why is my focus only on him and not on my own safety?

“Are you okay?” I ask softly.

“You don’t have to pretend to care.”

Having a version of my own words thrown back at me is surprisingly sobering.

“I’m not pretending,” I whisper.

He must see the truth in my expression because his gaze softens, just a fraction, and he lets out a low sigh.

“You need some self-defense lessons,” he says.

“Am I in danger?”

“Probably not, but it’d be good for you to have some training.”

“And what? Are you offering to train me?”

“Yes.” He says it simply, as if he has all the time in the world when I know for a fact that he’s a workaholic. “Is that a problem?”

“I didn’t think you had time for me.”

“I’ll make time for you.” He grabs his water bottle and a small towel from the ground. “Do you want to join Zeki and me for dinner? I’m ordering Indian.”

“Fine.”

“Way to sound excited about that.”

“I’m not,” I say, just to mess with him. “But I also won’t say no to a free meal.”

I leave him to shower, and when I finish, I walk into the kitchen to the delightful scent of curry andrice. Zeki has his plate piled high with tandoori meats, rice, and curry.

“Why don’t you guys have a table?” Zeki asks, sitting on the floor. “Is the delivery delayed or something?”

“Or something,” Evren says, giving me a long look. “I don’t think Nina has found one she’s liked.”

“There’s nothing you like?” Zeki asks me. “Like in the entire world?”

“Not at the stores I’m shopping at.”

“And what stores are those?” he asks.

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