I gently dab ointment on Jimmy's lip, the wound from Kyle's punch still raw and red. His eyes lock on me, heavy with questions, but I have no strength left to answer.
He whispers my name, Dane—
I cut him off, my voice sharp. "Now you can go."
His face twists in disbelief. "What? Dane, can we talk—"
"I want to be alone. Please leave." My tone is flat, final.
I turn away before his expression can break me and shut myself inside the bathroom. My back presses against the door, breath ragged. What the hell should I do? I twist the shower on and let the water drown my thoughts.
When I finally step out, hair dripping, the apartment is silent. Empty. Jimmy's gone. A bitter relief.
I towel my hair, trying to shake the weight from my head, when my phone rings. Secretary Joe again. I answer.
"Hello, Mr. Dane. Hope you're well."
"Hello, Secretary Joe."
"Mr. Cassian asked me to confirm again if you'd like to join him on his business trip abroad."
