Page 56 of Only the Wicked
“Yeah?”
“That thing with Hudson? Mum’s the word. And don’t worry about it. This little group of ours—KOAN—it’s not like we follow a corporate structure?—”
“I don’t date colleagues. Especially bosses.”
“Got it.”
“And Hudson doesn’t date people who work for him. He’s got that military background. And honestly, our personalities don’t mesh. He’s closed off. Arrogant.”
“Well, all I’m saying?—”
“Be careful out there. Touch base.”
“How are things with Hudson now? Is it weird?”
“Not at all.”
There’s a loud rap on my door.
“Hang on, someone’s?—”
The rap returns, more insistent.
“Syd? What’s going on?”
“I don’t know, but I gotta go. Talk later.”
“Wait—”
I hit the red button and end the call.
The weight of uncertainty hampers my movement. Three days ago, I was certain of my mission, my target, and my purpose. Now I’m questioning everything—except my attraction to a man who might be completely innocent and undeserving of an investigation.
With slow steps, I approach the door. I’m barefoot and indentations from the tight socks over damp skin post-skinny-dipping mar my calves. I’m still in my shorts and tee.
“Hello?” I say to the door.
“Syd?” Adrenaline-inducing endorphins whoosh through me, all from the deep voice resonating through the door.
“Couldn’t wait?” I ask, swinging the door open, somewhat incredulous he’s here.
He’s in a fresh T-shirt that clings to his biceps and shoulders. My gaze falls to the flip-flops on bright white feet and I can’t stop smiling because right now I’m getting a Rhodes that few see. He grins, and it’s boyish and endearing.
“I’ve got an addiction.” He leans against the doorframe and the way he’s smiling, his tease is obvious.
Me?
“Work,” he clarifies quickly, but his smile falters slightly. “And apparently, I’m worse at this vacation thing than I thought.”
I deflate slightly, but…
“Seriously. My partner bet me I couldn’t go a week without working.” He runs a hand through his hair, looking slightly sheepish. “Miles has been on my case for months about never taking time off. Says I’m going to burn out before I’m forty-five.”
“Didn’t you go back to your villa to check in?”
“Well, yeah. I had a call scheduled with my grandmother. She wanted to make sure I was still on vacation.” His boyish grin has me grinning. “And I called my partner. But he’s a friend. So, not just work.” He pauses, looking almost embarrassed. “And he reminded me of our bet. Also mentioned that if I was really serious about this vacation thing, I’d stop making excuses and just...be present. With you.”
“And you don’t lose bets?”
