Jake's lips curled into a little smile that stopped short of his eyes. "Privacy is a luxury few can afford in this line of work, especially when the stakes are high."
His tone became more direct as he leaned forward. "For that reason, I have a question for you. Lovely, who are you? Really?"
Her heart ceased beating. Sharp and curious, the query lingered in the air. Lovely could feel his intense interest and the weight of his scrutiny.
She knew denial wouldn't be enough, but her mind raced for an explanation. There was no fooling Jake Lewis.
She cautiously answered, "I don't understand what you mean," to give herself some time.
Jake squinted his gaze a little. "Don't be evasive with me. There's something familiar about you. You make me think of a former acquaintance with whom I lost touch." His voice grew softer and more vulnerable at the conclusion, which startled her.
