“I’m saying he doesn’t want a pretty woman working in his office. I’m sure he loves them in his bed.”
Declan laughs, and the sound is oddly comforting. “Interesting. I wonder why that is?”
“Distraction? How should I know?” I’m getting more frustrated as the conversation goes on, and I’m no closer to figuring out how to get closer to Owen. And if I can’t, I won’t find what I need.
“I’ll work on getting you a hacker, but you’re going to have to tell them where to look. You’ll have to have an idea at least.”
I sigh, switching the phone to between my other shoulder and ear while stirring the boiling pasta. “I’m far better suited for assassinations, I think.”
“The last assignment nearly destroyed you, Nova. And I’m not talking about the trial.”
I hate how spot on he is. I can barely stand to think about it without panic surging through my chest and rendering me breathless.
“I know, Dec. But I don’t know how to get close to this guy. I’m not charming like he is. I’m a ticking time bomb.”
“Truer words have never been spoken.”
Ignoring his barb, I continue, “I can’t promise this guy won’t end up with a knife through him. A punch to the face would be me holding back.”
Declan laughs again. “Maybe he’s into that kind of thing?”
“Not helpful,” I grumble, straining the pasta and throwing it in a pristine, white bowl that’s probably never been used.
“I have faith in you, but Nova?”
“Mmm?”
“Don’t forget to prepare your testimony for the trial.Thatis a priority, not Owen Mills.”
“I know. I’m sitting down to work on it now.” It’s the truth, even if I’d rather pretend Italy didn't happen.
“Good. Any new memories or leads coming through?” Declan suddenly sounds oddly fearful, which is very unlike him. He’s usually the steady and stable one in our duo.
“No. The memories of that day are still fuzzy. I lost a lot of blood. I’m working on a timeline and identifying faces of the people involved.”
Declan is quiet for a few moments. “Be careful who you indulge all of this with. I don’t want anything to go wrong with your trial.”
I find it odd that Declan wants me to be so secretive, but I know he’s worried about me.
“Oh, and don’t forget to take care of yourself,” he adds.
“I will, Dec. Thanks.”
“Talk tomorrow.”
When he hangs up, I’m left alone in a dark, cold apartment that is eerily silent. I chew my food, a lump in my throat every time I swallow, knowing I’m in way over my head with two completely separate problems.
Chapter 4
My second day on the job starts without a hitch. I jump back into the gala prep and research the charities that will be featured at the event. Though I look for anything out of the ordinary, I come up empty-handed. The charity side of the company seems squeaky clean.
My frustration grows, but I’m almost relieved that there’s nothing nefarious going on with the charities. I’m starting to think there’s something to Owen’s claim of saving the world on all the morning shows.
It’s something I’d never admit to him or anyone else, though.
Owen is gone most of the morning in meetings. He finally allowed me to access his calendar so I can help him with scheduling. Scanning it, I discover nothing but the usual business meetings. Nothing suspicious.
I’m wondering if there even is any evidence to be found when Owen’s voice interrupts my thoughts. “Time for lunch, Miss Riley. I won’t let my employees starve while on the clock.” He’s leaning casually against the office door, watching me.
