Page 205 of Red Marked

“They’ll use facial recognition software,” I say.

“What happens when you get his details?”

What is it with the twenty fucking questions?

“We’ll pay him a little visit.”

“A visit? What kind of visit?” Jett frowns. The male has an annoying voice. I wish he’d shut the fuck up already.

“The kind where I ask questions and he answers.”

“He’s not going to tell you anything.” Jett shakes his head. “I mean, why would he? He’ll deny everything.”

“I can be persuasive. Isn’t that right, Star?”

“Yes…absolutely.” She smiles at me. She has the prettiest smile.

“Wow.” Jett sits up straighter. “That’s impressive. We don’t get much action. I’m a CPA.” He gets a smug look. Yep, he thinks he’s better than me.

“Star told me a lot about you.”

Too fucking much.

“Did she?” He grins and looks at her. “I can’t believe you survived out there. Five years, Star. You look amazing. So beautiful.” His hand comes up and cups her cheek. “Your parents are going to be so happy. Koda too. I still visit them, you know. Not as often as I used to. It’s been a few months, but I still go.”

Her eyes fill.

“You came back to me,” he says. “I can’t believe it. I’m so happy, my love.”

I walk to the window on the far side of the room and put my back to both of them.

I feel like a third wheel.

“So you aren’t with Veridian anymore?” Star says behind me.

“No. I felt like I’d hit my ceiling there. I started my own thing about two years back. Consulting. I’m doing well.”

“I can see that. I’m glad.” A pause. “I thought you would have mated and moved on by now.”

“Not a chance.” He says it fast. “I grieved for years. I couldn’t so much as look at another female. I was so cut up, Star…in absolute pieces.”

I clear my throat.

“Look…” He drops his voice. “I haven’t been a saint.”

That’s for fucking sure.

“Jett, it’s fine, you don’t have to⁠—”

“No. Hear me out. There have been other females in the last year or two. I won’t lie to you. But it was only sex and only a handful of times. It didn’t mean anything.” The sofa creaks. “I still love you. I never stopped. It’s only ever been you for me.”

Holy fucking shit.

How do I block this out? I turn from the window and head for the door. I don’t know where I’m going, only that I have to leave. I can’t listen to this.

“Flint, I—” Star starts to say.

My phone buzzes in my hand.