“What? I like salami.”
“That better be all you like.”
I barely caught the words as I continued forward. Their bickering reminded me of me and Tiff and it made me smile. I slowed, pausing just before I reached the refrigerator.
“Oh, she’s thinking something.”
“Rian, are you going to narrate her every move?”
“I’m just making an observation.”
I pulled open the fridge, grabbing the tray. My thoughts revolved around my best friend. If they were going after Jase this badly, would they go after her too just to get to us? We were all connected one way or another. Was she okay? Would she be okay?
“I’m sorry. Did I upset you?”
My gaze lifted to Rian at his sincere tone. “No. Not at all. Sorry, I just…I have a lot on my mind.”
I placed the tray down, sliding into my seat. Jase eased into the chair next to me, picking up my injured hand as I reached for the food with the other.
“He’s right. It’s more than worry. Would you like to tell me what you’re thinking?
I grabbed a cracker as I shook my head. “It’s fine. I’m just processing. I.” I pursed my lips as I looked towards his desk where my new phone sat. “I’m sorry, I just got a really bad feeling. If you’ll both excuse me; I think I’m going to call Tiff. I don’t like these new developments, and I’m worried about her.”
“She’s fine. She’s already in for the night.”
My head tilted as I stared at Rian’s sobered face. Even Jase had his eyes narrowed.
“You’re watching Tiffany?” I went between both men, trying to read them. What didn’t I know? Something was clearly not right.
“I asked Rian to check in on her occasionally. I know how much she means to you.” Jase turned to his friend. “And she’s okay?”
“Well.” He hesitated. “I’ve been watching her more the last week or so. I’ve noticed some unusual inquiries on her account. An increase in friend requests from random strangers. They’re all coming from the same IP address. I don’t like it.”
I found myself standing before he could finish the last words. “I have to go. I—”
“Hold on, Kody.”
Jase had my hand again, trying to speak, but I heard nothing but that my friend could be in trouble.
“I want to leave. I won’t let them take her.”
Rian’s hands shot up. “Whoa, no one is taking her. She’s fine. She’s good. I have Rush watching over her now.”
“Rush?” Jase groaned. “You told him?”
“I didn’t have a choice. I’ve been busting my ass trying to figure out this email thing. I thought I was discovering something when the alerts went off. He was closer than me. Her safety came before your secrets. We can trust Rush, Jase. You know that.”
“Can we? Have you seen Tiffany?”
Rian’s defensiveness melted.
“She’s his type and you know it. Hell, she’s both your type. Have you ever thought about that? I can trust you not to cross the line. Rush is another story altogether.” Jase shook his head, following me to stand. “I’m taking Kody out to the balcony to calm her down. Call your brother. Get him to bring her here for the night. It’s time we figure out a safe situation for everyone.”
“I already have. They’re already headed to our place.” At Jase’s look, Rian finally stood. “She’ll be safe with us. That’s final, my friend. It’s not up for debate. You have Kody to focus on. You don’t need two women to drive you crazy. Tiffany will be safe with us. We’ll take good care of her.”
Chapter 25
Jase