Page 108 of Tell Me All Your Lies

I can tellGrant is nervous about tonight. It’s not in our skills and abilities, but I think it’s because of our relationship status. We’re no longer just partners in the field. He looks at me now as if I’m his entire world.

I love it when he does, but it makes me hesitant about his behavior when we’re working. The first time I saw the shift in his eyes, my heart melted. I felt like I was in a puddle of happiness after finally finding the one who makes my heart soar.

Grant revs the engine of the car as he switches lanes.

We’re both dressed for the mission. He is wearing an all-black suit, and I’m in a matching black suit too. Enough to blend in but also practical for what’s to come.

We’re silent as he continues to head to the casino.

I’ve never been a talker in these scenarios, but I usually work alone. I don’t know if I should try to be reassuring to Grant or just let him work it out in his head.

“Grant,” I say.

“I’m fine.”

I laugh.

“Fine? Don’t get me started on that obscene excuse for a word again.”

Grant smirks and glances over at me before focusing back on the road.

“I love you. That’s all. I’ve never had someone I love be in danger before. It’s something I have to work through, but I know it’s ameissue.”

“We’ve got this. We’ll both be fine. This is a simple recon mission to find out what we need to know. Time is passing by, and we don’t have a clue who the Marlin is.”

“I know.”

“Something has to be in Taby’s quarters.”

“I agree. It’s too personal for there not to be.”

“Good.”

Grant pulls into a spot by the side of the casino near a back door. It’s still around other cars but will be near the closest exit we can take to leave quickly.

We both hop out of the car and silently walk into the casino. Spotting the private room, we give our names to the guard, who sees we are permanent guests on the list to get in.

Simple already. We won’t be tracked necessarily, and if anything, our being here should look good if Cordelia or Taby were to find out. We’re coming back to the business and showing our support without work being involved.

It’s going to plan, and that’s all that matters. Simple and easy. Grant has nothing to be worried about.

We saunter past the gamblers and revelers as we make our way to one of the bars. We’ll stake out here for a bit before making our move.

“What can I get for you?” the bartender asks.

“Tonic with lime, please.”

“Make that two.”

“Two tonics with limes coming right up,” he answers.

Leaning with my back to the bar, I look around the casino to make sure there’s no one here who would immediately recognize us. Grant does the same, facing the bar area.

“I think we’re good,” I tell Grant.

“No one on the opposite side either.”

“Perfect.”

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