Page 100 of Marks of Rebellion
"Either way, I'll repay you. I've always made my own money. Not a gold digger," I try to joke, but it falls flat.
"Why would I think you're a gold digger?"
More uncomfortable silence.
"This is about what Tinker said, isn't it?"
"No," I lie.
"I wanted you to come to Australia. She never even crossed my mind. And it's not fair of Tinker to put you two in a comparison because you'll win every time."
My heart flutters. And that pain that we're no longer together becomes that much more intense. "I wanted to go, too."
"Why—"
"Hunter. Tinker—"
We turn toward the door. Ryker's face and arms look just as bad as Hunter's.
He stops in the doorway, mid step. "Sorry to interrupt. And I'm sorry about last night, Vanessa."
I pick up my clothes off the bed. "You're forgiven. Have you seen Julieta?"
"She's making breakfast."
"Okay." I glance quickly at Hunter then leave the room. I put on my clothes and go downstairs to the kitchen. Julieta is hovering over a griddle and has several pots and pans on the stove.
"Look at you," I tease.
She smiles. "Hey. Sleep well?"
"A bit."
She nods.
"Can I help?"
"Sure."
"What are you making?"
"Rice and beans with eggs, plantains, and grilled tortillas."
"You're so Costa Rican."
Her grin widens. "Yep."
"Did you talk to Ryker?"
Her face falls. "Not much. I spoke longer to Hunter."
"Hunter?"
"Yeah. We had a little heart-to-heart."
"How did that go?"
"Good, actually. We both apologized, and I told him how I knew about the border crossing."
