“Thanks, Izzy.” I smile, unsure why she’s in a jerky mood. “Are you okay?”
“Me?” She nearly yells then stops in her tracks by the stairs. Sweat beads on her forehead and she keeps wiping her hands on the apron.
“If there’s something going on, you can tell me.” I face her, softening my voice. “I’ll do whatever I can to help. You’ve done so much for me since I woke up with no memories, and I’ll never forget that.”
A sudden sob tears from her throat and my eyes widen. It’s the first time I’ve seen Izzy out of sorts like this. She is always the epitome of care and kindness.
“Izzy.” I clutch her shoulder. “Please tell me. I want to help.”
“Why did you have to be like this?” She sniffles. “It would’ve been so much easier if you were the old Reina. Ever since I found this, I can’t sleep.”
“Found what?”
“Even though I would give my life for him, I can’t do this to you or to Mr. Carson. He’s my savior and I owe him my life.
“You’re not making any sense, Izzy.”
“Just…just promise me you won’t ruin his entire career, please. Please, Reina.”
“Who—”
I’m cut off when she retrieves something from her apron and shoves it in my hand. “Please. If you care for me even a little, make my wish come true.”
With that, she disappears down the hall. I attempt to chase her but Alex calls to me from up the stairs.
I stare at the small object Izzy has shoved into my hands: a flash drive.
What could all this be about? I guess it has to wait. After tucking the drive into my bag, I join Alex.
In his office, he tells me there’s still no news about Reina. However, he’s close to finding his contact.
That gives me so much hope, I can’t help getting up and hugging Alex. He’s not a warm person per se, but he’s always treated me well on behalf of my dad.
My phone vibrates on my way out of Alex’s office.
Asher: Come out.
The impatience of this man.
Reina: Why don’t you come in?
Asher: The only place I’ll be coming in tonight is your pussy.
My cheeks heat and I’m so glad I already left Alex’s office.
Reina: Asshole.
Asher: Your ass too if you keep tempting me.
God, this man will be the death of me.
Before I step outside, I pull up Instagram and type a message to Cloud003. My chest is uneasy at the thought of doing this behind Asher’s back, but he’s left me no choice.
Jason and I need to talk one on one and solve whatever issues we have. I’m also sure he’ll tell me about Arianna if Asher isn’t around.
Reina-Ellis: Can we meet?
My fingers are stiff as I add the next word.