Page 36 of The Protégé

“That’s life, right?” I shrugged.

Tonight confirmed that Orion was attracted to me, but something else had him keeping his distance. I desperately wanted to know, but I didn’t think tonight was the night to find out.

Besides, did I want to date him? It was obvious he and I were from different worlds. Why start something that would eventually end badly? I should save myself the heartache.

My stomach growled, and I didn’t want to think about that anymore. “I’m making myself a turkey sandwich. Want one?”

“Sure.”

We both pretended that the last ten minutes didn’t happen and spoke casually. I opened the refrigerator door while he browsed the kitchen.

“Why were you in that area today?” he asked.

I made his sandwich, placing it on a dish and mine on another. Then I boiled hot water for tea.

“I was investigating something.”

Besides Elliot, Orion was the only other person who knew about my investigation. I didn’t know why I told him. There was this inexplicable connection between us. Maybe he could help me see my investigation differently.

“What were you investigating?” he asked, wandering over to my living room like he was gathering information about me.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

ORION

An indescribable senseof home and comfort stirred in the air as I studied her house. Like visiting an old home where one could feel the history of it.

The table with pots of herbs and dandelions fascinated me. I understood herbs, but dandelions? What was she doing with them? This woman intrigued me more and more.

A quick scan of the house revealed a mix of styles. There was some traditional furniture sprinkled in with modern decor. I couldn’t pinpoint what her style was, eclectic? A little of this and that?

Stacks of newspapers and magazines sat on the coffee table beside an outdated couch. A modern chair with a starry print throw pillow added a homey touch.

Elena Sanchezwas buried underneath so much mystery. It was my mission to find out who she really was.

She had a saying framed on her wall.

Impossible.

I’m possible.

Everything is perspective.

-Nadia Han

That quote made me pause. “I like it.”

“Like what?”

“The quote you have on the wall. It’s profound, yet simple.”

“Isn’t it? It’s from a journal calledFinding Your HeART. I have the author’s new book on preorder. That one’s calledFinding Your YOUniverse.”

“I’ll check her out.”

She considered me. “I don’t know if you’ll enjoy her work. She’s a romantic suspense author. Most guys are embarrassed to read those books. They prefer books on sports, war, finance, or philosophy, or espionage thrillers.”

“I’m not most guys.” Was that how she thought of me? Normal? “Do I look like a guy who gives a shit about what others think?”

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