The biggest smile lights up the boy's face, and Owen is practically glowing from that blaze.
There’s no amount of logic to explain what I’m witnessing. The whole situation isn’t one I’m used to. Murder suspects don’t act this way, and they certainly don’t try to give money and power away. I should know. I’ve put away hundreds of murderers.
So, what the hell is going on here?
Chapter 9
Ella calls me after the meeting, and I lock myself in the bathroom, speaking in a hushed voice.
“Peyton Radd is one of the alias names used by a hired, private assassin,” she explains. “He’s been arrested a few times, but there wasn’t enough evidence to convict him. It says he’s still on the loose.”
“Shit,” I mumble.
The information isn’t surprising, but it only creates more questions than it answers.
“You think Mr. Mills hired him to kill those other billionaires?” she asks.
“I don’t know. Does it say his supposed method of assassination?”
There is silence on the other end of the phone as Ella searches the file. “He’s suspected to be one hell of a sniper. Trained by the Marines.”
“No mentions of poison?”
“No.”
“Shit,” I repeat, even though poisons aren’t usually on any assassin forms because they are extremely hard to track.
I sigh, switching the phone to my other ear. “Thanks, Ella.”
“I’ll keep looking. He goes by other names. There might be a file I missed.”
“Thanks. How’s that new hacker boyfriend of yours?” I ask, changing the subject. I need to get my mind off the situation I find myself in.
“Shhh,” she whispers harshly.
Ella works for the CIA, and yet she’s dating an illegal hacker. The irony is not lost on anyone. He’s a good one, though, and the CIA would be lucky to have him, but Ella can’t ask him to join the CIA without admitting she works for the CIA to begin with.
“I’m sorry.” I laugh. “I mean, how’s yourhotboyfriend doing?”
She lets out a long breath. “He’s perfect, Nova. I can’t believe I have to live this lie around him. I want to talk shop and show that I know exactly what he’s talking about instead of pretending I’m clueless. It’s exhausting, but he’s worth it.”
I smile even though she can’t see it. “I’m happy for you, Ella. Can’t wait to meet up with you two for a drink.”
“You should!” She squeals. “And you should bring that underwear model.”
I snort. “I’m not bringing my boss’s brother.”
“You mean your target's brother?” The question was definitely intentional.
“Yes. Same thing.”
“Is it?”
I huff. “Bye, Ella. Talk later.”
She chuckles. “Bye, Nova. Enjoy two sexy men while you can.”
She ends the call before I can mutter a retort, and I find myself smirking for no good reason.
