Page 48 of Unexpected Heroine

All I can do is nod at her, letting my face remain slack so I don’t reveal the desolation inside me.

Eventually, a knock at the door yanks me from self-recrimination mode. “Be right back.”

This time, she rises from the couch when I do.

Fuck.

Lettie and I open the door together, and Josh offers me the open package. “All clear.” He offers a nod to Lettie before retreating two steps backward.

I gave him strict instructions to stay clear of her unless necessary for her protection. The last thing I want is for her to feel uncomfortable in my home due to the presence of a man she doesn’t know. Josh has done a good job of that so far.

I give him a nod and take the package. “Thanks.”

My scalp prickles with unease as I peek inside.

A jump drive. That’s it. Nothing else included.

“That’s all that was in here?” I ask.

“Yeah.”

Judging by his expression, he’s as concerned about it as I am. Yet he’s not saying the words in order to protect Lettie’s mental health.

He’s surprising me with his tact and discretion. When shit settles down, I’ll have to put in a good word for him with Boss.

With his brows raised, he asks, “Anything else for now?”

The slight glance he makes in Lettie’s direction telegraphs his silent question. Want me to see what’s on it so you can stay with her?

As much as I’d love to take him up on that and pretend this package has nothing to do with me, I can’t bury my head in the sand.

“All good. Thanks, man.”

He purses his lips, nodding slowly in understanding. “I’ll be here if you need me.”

Closing the door, I carry the package into the foyer. Lettie’s previously calm demeanor has rapidly deteriorated over the last several minutes. I feel her eyes burning into the side of my cheek, but I’m weary to face her.

Not until I can steady myself.

She moves in front of me when I don’t accomplish that soon enough. “What is it?”

I could lie. Pretend it’s only something I ordered. Leave it at that. Hell, I could even show her the drive and tell her it’s something HQ sent to me.

Yet uttering one more untruth is steel wool rubbing my insides raw.

My indecision and non-response goes on too long, and she snatches the package from my hand. “Is this a USB drive?”

I drag my palm over my face, digging my fingertips along the sides to release the tense muscles. It doesn’t work.

“Yeah. It is.”

“Well, shouldn’t you look at it to see what’s on it?” She lowers her volume to an airy whisper. “Should we look at it?” Not only is fear woven into her voice, but it lingers behind her eyes.

I swallow around a newly formed lump in my throat while contemplating my response.

Yes, I need to see what is on this.

And yes, I’m going to look at it.

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