Code Name Ghost (Jameson Force Security 5)

“Ask August,” Anna says with a sniff, glaring down at the folder. “I know you were good friends back in Vegas.”

There’s a long silence before Cage finally admits. “No one knows about Jaime except you, Anna. I only told you because I needed a woman’s opinion, and I trust you.”

Cage actually cuts his eyes to me, and he adds, “Guess I’m trusting you with this now, too.”

I cock an eyebrow, tapping my finger against my chin. “You mean you’re dating someone who thinks you’re a used-car salesman? Why the big secret?”

“Because Cage doesn’t do relationships,” Anna mutters sarcastically. “Thinks it will ruin his rep or something.”

“That’s not it,” Cage growls. “This is new for me, Anna. I don’t want to fuck it up, and I want you to meet her. Please come.”

Anna finally raises her head, blowing out a long breath. “Fine. But I don’t want to be a third wheel. Malik can come, too.”

“Whoa,” I reply, shaking my head. “I don’t think—”

“You’re coming,” Anna says firmly, giving me a scowl that frankly scares me.

And… okay, fine. Looks like I’m going out for drinks with Anna and Cage tonight.CHAPTER 8AnnaI spot Cage and Jaime across the crowded bar area where we’d agreed to meet for drinks. They are seated at a small table in the corner. Malik and I move that way, winding our way in and out amongst the other happy-hour drinkers, neither of us in a rush to perpetuate this bit of fraud Cage has going on.

It’s odd walking into an establishment with a man—even though we’re only friends. I can’t say it’s unpleasant, but why would it be? Malik is tall and gorgeous, causing many a female head to turn his way. His hand goes to the middle of my back to help guide me through the crowd, putting his body slightly just ahead of mine to part the way so I don’t get jostled. I’d forgotten how good it feels to have a man—or anyone really—protect me. It’s the downside to being alone.

“Let me get this straight,” Malik mutters, leaning his head closer to me. “Cage basically only does hook-ups, nothing serious. And he always gives a false profession for whatever asinine reason.”

I nod. “Correct. And the reason being—from what I understand—is that if women knew he was a bad-ass Special Forces security expert, they’d be more stalkerish or something, but I really think he just likes keeping it impersonal.”

“Dumbest thing I’ve ever heard, but whatever. So, this woman is more than a hookup and she still doesn’t know what he does for a living?”

“That’s the way I understand it,” I mutter.

“And he’s too scared to tell her the truth because he’s afraid the lie will do them in?”

Not afraid to just lay it out there. “The guy is a certified moron for sure. However, I think it’s adorable he truly likes this woman, and he isn’t quite sure how to rectify the situation. It’s kind of fun to watch him stumble around while trying to figure it out.”

“Seems stressful to me,” Malik murmurs, but I don’t have time to respond as we reach the table.

Cage makes the introductions between us and Jaime, who is beyond gorgeous with vivid red hair cascading down her shoulders, pale blue eyes, and delicate facial bones. She’s willowy and graceful as she stands to shake our hands.

Malik and I are merely introduced as friends of Cage’s as we take the two chairs opposite.

Cage had already ordered a pitcher of beer. Once glasses are poured and passed out, the conversation is remarkably light and fluid. It’s nice to come out to enjoy a few beers without having to worry about breastfeeding Avery tonight. I pumped enough milk to keep her happy, and my mom is going to keep her overnight.

I spend this little bit of precious time with Cage’s new woman, peppering questions her way so I can learn more about her. More importantly, I try to keep her from asking too many questions of her own that would put me in a position to have to lie. While I don’t mind helping Cage out tonight, if this ends up being something that could go the distance, I don’t want her hating me for my part in the deception.

It only took to the bottom of my first beer to determine I like Jaime a lot. I can tell Cage really does, too. She’s not only beautiful, but she’s smart, charming, humble, and genuine. Definitely about a hundred steps up from the bimbos he normally hooks up with.

My next opportunity to have a private conversation with Cage, I’m going to demand he get his head out of his ass and tell her the truth. This is especially important because I can tell Jaime likes Cage a great deal right back. Who knows, this could be true love in the making.