ME: You need to check on Ly later. Something just happened. I’m not sure what.
VAN: Got it. I’ll let you know.
I slip my phone back in my pocket and climb the stairs, hoping that by the time I get to the top, I no longer want to hurt the man who, for some reason, just stirred up my sister’s past.
Chapter 20
COLE
“Do you know her?”
“No. I mean, she looks familiar, but. . . ”
I run a hand over my face, trying to figure out what the hell happened. Ryder transformed into full armored defense mode right before my eyes. It was quick as a flash. Her entire body expanded as she morphed into steel, ready for battle.
Nick paces a bit, then turns to face me, his hands on his hips. “What’s going on here? Who is she?”
I stare at him. “She’s my protection agent.”
His scoff is filled with sarcasm. “Do I look like a fucking idiot? She’s living in your apartment, and by the look on your face, she’s notjustanything.”
What is he talking about?
“In all the time I’ve known you, you’ve never been friends with a woman. You’ve never been anything with a woman because every single one of them breathes down your neck, hoping one night in your bed will set them up for life.”
My spine stiffens, and I straighten. I don’t know what to say. He’s right. Figuring out if I can trust a woman takes time and energy, all of which I reserve for football. What I’d like to know is what the hell that has to do with Ryder?
Before I can ask him, the door opens, and Ryder steps in. Her face is stone, and she looks like she’s about to rip Nick to pieces.
“She told me I don’t need to kill you, but I’m not convinced. How does she know you?”
He huffs. “Are you for real?”
“You’re about to find out how real I am.” She takes a step closer, her body rigid and tight.
Nick is a big dude, but the look on Ryder’s face tells me she’s not intimidated in the least.
Who is this woman?
“Where are you from?” she asks, demanding an answer.
Nick’s eyes shift from her to me and back. “What the hell is this? I’m not answering your questions.”
I step forward. “Hey, she’s just trying to figure out what happened.”
“Yeah, well, I didn’t do anything. I don’t know her, and I won’t stand here and be interrogated.”
His furious gaze meets mine again. “I thought we were friends, man. I didn’t know I’d get passed over for some chick.”
I think I hear Ryder growl as Nick swipes his bottle off the counter.
He storms up the stairs while my head spins with. . .
I don’t even know. My brain is moving so fast that I can’t keep up. I drag my eyes to Ryder, and hers remain focused on the stairs as if she’s weighing following him.
A moment later, Nick returns with his suitcase. “Good luck, asshole. I hope your. . .protection agentis worth it.”
He brushes past Ryder, rips open the door, and slams it shut.
