12
Ryan called Jamie the next day.
They made plans for the following day.
She hung up with a smile.
“Why not meet him today?” Enrique sat on the bed in her hotel room.
“Because men that age like the chase. Didn’t you know that, Ricky?”
“And women like the chase just as much?” He arched a brow.
She gave him an intentional glare. “Let’s keep this on a professional level. I don’t want to know about your dating life nor will I tell you about mine.”
His chocolate brown gaze remained on her. He looked sad, but then he smiled. “Absolutely, you’re right about that, Jakowski. I got no time to tell you about all my women.”
“Oh, really, Ricky. Just how many?”
He winked. “As you said this is about finding Michael Zinkleman and nothing more.”
“Actually, the only thing I’m concerned about finding is Andrew. Michael Zinkleman is your problem, not mine.”
“You don’t care about getting justice? That doesn’t sound like the Jamie Jakowski I know.”
“I’ve changed.”
“So have I, Jamie. I left the faith for a while. But I’m back in it, now.”
“You’re a Christian?”
“Yep, and I’m learning more about God’s love and forgiveness every day. His mercies are new every morning even for a rascal like me.”
“That’s nice. I’m glad for you.”
“I want to talk about forgiveness, Jamie.” His tone told her he was sincere. He’d forgive her, but he’d only break her heart again.
“Doesn’t sound very professional to me.” She stood up. “Besides, I’m hungry.”
“Then let’s go get breakfast. On the agency.”
“It’s bad enough you came to my room, but now it’s time for you to go. We can’t be seen together. You never know who will be watching me at any given time.”
“First rule of undercover, but parting is such sweet sorrow, mi vida.”
“I am not your darling.” She walked to the door and he followed.
“How do you know what that means?”
“I have a Puerto Rican nanny. Anna’s been with us since Sabrina was born. Sabrina speaks Spanish almost fluently, but I only know a few words.”
“Ah, so you do, mi vida. How long will this take?”
“Breakfast or the operation?” She shrugged. “Breakfast, about thirty minutes. The operation, I have no idea. It will take as long as it takes.”
“And just how far are you willing to go?”
So much for him forgiving her. She glared knowing exactly what he was asking. In the next instant her anger turned to shame, its hot sparks burning a path straight to her heart. She’d made mistakes in the past—mistakes that she wasn’t proud of no matter how effective the results. Not that it mattered. She was a different person now, and there were lines she wouldn’t cross again—ever. “Not that far.”
“I didn’t mean it like that, Jamie. I meant how long are you willing to stay away from Sabrina?”
Their gazes met.
She didn’t believe him.
He was thinking back to the other time they’d worked together.
She’d had a choice—sleep with someone or die. She’d made her choice, right or wrong. “If you say so.”
“Look. I was a rookie then. I didn’t understand what it meant to go undercover. I didn’t know how dangerous it was. The rules of the game change when your life’s in danger. I get that now. What you did saved thousands of people. You’re a hero.”
Her heart fluttered, but she tore her gaze away. Why did Enrique have to be the one here with her? It complicated everything. “I don’t feel much like a hero.” She opened the door.
His hand grazed her shoulder. “Jamie, I really didn’t—”
“Goodbye.”