Page 65 of Betraying Bexley

“Better?” Scotty’s voice lowered.

“Much,” AJ said.

“Don’t waste time.” Scotty winked at Alé and he understood what the guy meant.

“She likes you guys,” Alé admitted. “She called you friends.”

AJ blushed and the broad smile on Scotty’s face lit up the room. “She’s a good kid. Socially awkward of course, but a good nut.”

“Now that we have our assignments, we’ll reconvene in twenty-four hours. Luca, thanks for loaning us a couple of your Cis. We appreciate it,” Asher said, drawing their small meeting to a close.

“Not a problem. If you need anything else, please let me know.” The screen went blank followed by the one with Thomas.

“As for you,” Asher glanced at Alé, “take Bex to the areas you have clearance. Get her to open up a bit. We’re always one step behind you. We’ve got your back.”

Alé nodded. “Thanks. I think I will.”

“Well, hey there cutie,” Callahan said from the main area of C&C. “Who are you?”

“B-Bex,” she said. “I-Is Alé h-here? I-I think I-I’m lost.”

“You’re in the right spot.” The creak of the chair indicated Callahan stood. “I’m Drew. Come on, let me show you where he is.”

“Uh...”

“Don’t worry. You’re safe here, Bex.”

Asher nodded to Alé and he stepped out where she could see him. Relief filled her eyes. “I’ve got this Callahan. Hey, mami.”

“Dr. Rae f-finished.” Bex held up her arm.

“Killer cast. Can I sign it?” Callahan removed a Sharpie from his pants pocket.

Bex looked to Alé then Asher before holding out her arm. “S-Sure.”

“Awesome.” Drew carefully grabbed her arm then began writing on the cast. “You also have a sweet leg. Whoever did the paint job is a badass artist.

“Uh...” Bex’s gaze widened as she swallowed hard. “T-Thanks.”

“No problem, kid.” Callahan capped his pen. “There, finished. What do you think?”

Alé stepped closer and peered at her cast. Sunt billions de astra, sed solum unus ex vobis.“You speak Latin?”

Callahan chuckled. “I speak several languages. Latin happens to be my favorite.” He gave Bex a finger wave. “Nice meeting you, Bex.

“S-Same. Thank you.” She gave him a small smile, and damn if Alé’s heart didn’t give a hardy thump.

“Better watch out, Alé. Callahan’s about to take your girl.” Noah chuckled.

“Not a bad idea.” Callahan stuck his head in the door. “What do you say, Bex? Want to go on a date with a guy who has numerous vices, but can tell you how cute you are in several different languages?” He wiggled his brows and grinned.

Bex stepped back toward Alé. “I... I-I d-don’t... I-I’m n-not...”

“You guys are assholes,” AJ said. “Bex, they’re teasing you.”

“Speak for yourself,” Callahan muttered. “I’m sure Bex and I could get into plenty of trouble together.”

“Fuck off, old man.” Alé wrapped an arm around Bex, tugging her into his side. She trembled there momentarily then relaxed. “No one is taking my mami away.”

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