“Oh no, I’m happy to tell you what I know,” I smile. Miles tenses beside me, but I don’t stop. “Which is that I was with Nero all day. He didn’t go near any warehouse—or talk to anyone who did.”
I don’t hesitate. I don’t drop my eyes. And I don’t say another word.
I can see the surprise on their faces. Lydia looks pissed, and Greggs take the opportunity to take charge of the conversation.
“You know that if you’re providing an alibi, you’ll have to be willing to do so in a court of law. That’s means that if you’re lying to us right now, you’re committing perjury. It’s a serious crime, Lily.”
I don’t flinch. I’m stuck between a rock and a hard place right now. If Nero goes to jail? My protection is over. I’m as good as dead.
Lies are my only option.
“Shall we go now?” I ask Miles, getting to my feet.
“You’re making a mistake here,” Lydia scowls.
“No, the mistake is that hairstyle,” I tell her, flashing a smile. “It makes your face look tired. Very aging, you know.”
Miles scrambles to his feet, and follows me to the door, but Lydia blocks my path.
“We gave you a chance, but you’ve made your bed. Now, you have to lie in it.”
“What’s that?” I turn to Miles. “A threat?”
“Sure sounded like one,” he says. “I’ll add it to our harassment complaint. And you better believe, we expect Mr Barretti to be released now, without charge.”
Lydia glares at me, “When we take him down—and we will - you’re going right down with him.”
I hide the shot of fear. “Bangs,” I say instead. “I think bangs would really work on you. Soften everything up.”
And then I walk out. But my heart pounds in fear, all the way out the building.
I just lied. Perjured myself like it was nothing—and waved a red flag in front of Agent Compton.
This plan better work.