Page 69 of Crossing the Line

We’re silent for a long while, and then Clive says, “Just be careful. If you don’t mind me saying, Hercules’s intentions may not be so pure.”

“Why do you say that?” I’m frowning so hard my forehead aches.

“He might be using you to win this battle between your families. There’s a lot of money at stake. But I hope not, for your sake. Because I like you”—he turns his electric eyes on me for a second—“a lot. So take care of yourself.”

I’m speechless as I consider his warning.Could Hercules be using me to help his family?I need to think about this when I’m by myself.

“I will,” I finally whisper.

* * *

Clive followsmy dad’s orders and escorts me to the door. He asks if I will go to dinner with him this week. I tell him I’ll look at my calendar.

While riding up the elevator, I check my cellphone. Hercules hasn’t called. Feeling as if I’m carrying a load of bricks on my shoulders, I open the door to my apartment, drag myself to the sofa, fall on top of it, and stretch out. I can’t wait for my beds to arrive tomorrow. But at least the cleaning company came today. The fresh lemony scent puts me to sleep.

“Tomorrow,” I say.

Tomorrow Hercules might call me.

Tomorrow, I’ll ponder whether he’s using me.

And tomorrow, I’ll deal with my job and whether or not I’ll continue working for GIT.

* * *