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She gets up, and I guide her to the bedroom. She changes into my T-shirt and leggings before getting into bed. She doesn’t think about it, but subconsciously, she dresses ready to move, ready to run.

I strip and get in beside her. She turns into me and starts to drift off. She didn’t want the meds because she didn’t feel safe. I’m glad I came. I’m pretty sure neither of us has slept properly in the last two days.

“Why did Amrit tell you to stop wearing your perfume?” I ask quietly.

“He said it was too strong, that someone with a sharp sense of smell could track me.”

“True,” I say. But I know he lied. The scent is fucking intoxicating. I pull her closer and breathe it in again “I like it. Keep wearing it.” I inhale again before sleep takes me.

When I wake up, Jola isn’t in the room. I grab my phone. It’s midday. There’s a text from Ice from about twenty minutes ago.

Ice: She’s having brunch with Jonah in his room. The guys have a plate for you across the hall.

Me: Thanks. Is she okay?

Ice: She’s fine. Thompson just arrived. He’s talking about taking her on a boat ride. She’s turning him down, but he’s not listening.

Me: Once he leaves, ping me. I’ll send one of the guys to warn him off. He’s a douche in a suit.

Ice: I’ll keep you posted on our movements.

Me: Thanks, Ice.

I sigh and get out of bed. She slept last night. I did too. I shower, change, and let the guys know I’m heading across the hall.

I eat with them, then send one of the guys to warn Thompson off since he’s not getting the message. After that, I check in with the Chicago team. Ice texts that they’re heading back up to Jonah’s room.

I decide right then that I’m taking her home. I call Jonah.

“Powell,” he answers.

“Hey. I had to make a quick trip to New York last night. I’m wrapping up in a few hours and heading back to Chicago. I can take Lexi with me,” I say.

“You’re in New York?” he asks.

“Yes. A client needed a face to face. I’m heading back. Is Lexi ready?”

“Let me ask her. If not, I don’t mind spending a few more hours with her. I’ll call you back,” he says, hanging up before I can add anything.

Fuck.

Lexi’s with him. I didn’t tell her my plan. I should have. Now I’m watching the clock.

Me: What’s Jonah doing? I told him I’m in NY and suggested I take Lexi back.

Ice: He’s talking to her. I can’t hear them.

Me: If he tries anything else, let him know her going back with me makes more sense.

I hate sneaking around like this, but I have to if I want to keep her. Jonah won’t accept me with his sister. That’s a bridge I’ll figure out how to cross another day..

I pace the room with the guys when my phone rings. Jonah.

“Powell, what time are you leaving New York?”

“I’m ready when she is.”

“I need a little time with her. I can have her and Ice at the airport in four hours.”