The Payback (Team Zulu 2)

“Not if you keep talking,” I said between gritted teeth.

Maya laughed and shook her head. “Well, if you change your mind about the job, give me a call.” She leaned in and lowered her voice. “And the next time you two decide to go allMission Impossibleon some kingpin’s ass, give me a heads up, will you? I’d like a little more warning before having to process three hundred criminals.”

I swallowed and gave a sharp nod.

She smiled. “Enjoy your celebration. You’ve earned it.” Then she put her hands in her pockets and walked away.

Brandon and I released a simultaneous deep sigh. How Maya had figured out we were involved was a mystery, but I was beyond relieved she’d decided to keep our secret.

“Damn shame they won’t fit me,” Lettie said as she snatched the shoebox for a closer inspection. “There’s this cool dive bar everyone’s talking about. We should go there for a drink. I can’t remember what it’s called. Johnny’s, Joey’s. Something like that.”

Brandon and I glanced at each other. “Maybe someplace else,” I said.

Brandon stood before me, tilted my chin up, and cupped my jaw with both hands. “Are you all right?” he asked quietly.

“Mm-hmm.” I clasped my hands behind his neck and smiled into blue eyes that I fell deeper in love with every day. “Everything’s perfect.”

The End