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“Why didn’t you run then? Why go to Cami?” Atticus asked.
“Because it’s not just me I have to look after. I have a daughter, and despite her being a captive there, I hoped I could trust Camila to get me a meeting with you. When I heard about your young man being taken, I knew it was the opportunity to prove to you I wasn’t a plant. I can’t risk my daughter’s life, so I hope you’ll see the truth in that and help me if I help you.”
Atticus regarded the man, and I knew he was turning over every possible angle to find if this was Dayton getting a foothold. I had to hand it to the man, though, he appeared genuine, and I believed he wanted to switch sides.
Atticus turned, looking at his cousin. “Do you vouch for him?”
“I do,” she said without hesitation. “He was kind to me, saving me many times from giving up. And I’ve met Olivia, his daughter. This isn’t a ploy, Atticus. Malek can help us get Jude.”
“It’s worth the shot, right, Attie?” Loren asked, pulling his attention. He met her eyes, hearing her desperation to do something, and he nodded, dropping his arms. I could see how tired he was, the exhaustion plaguing him.
“So, what does that have to do with us?” I asked. “Have our orders changed?”
“In a way. I want you to go with Stocke to Masked Kingpin first, and then afterward, you can resume your infiltration. Nat, I spoke with Pixel, and she’s willing to help you build a profile. It’s not a bad idea. Being better prepared will mean you don’t make stupid mistakes. If we find Jude tonight as well, then you won’t have to run off into danger unprepared.”
Loren’s phone beeped, rattling on the table, and we all froze, turning to watch her grab it. Her shoulders slumped, and we all deflated as well.
It wasn’t Jude.
She looked up, shrugging as she dialed the phone. I turned to ask Atticus about what time we’d leave when Nicco stormed in, a stricken look on his face.
“Ignite. It’s on fire.”
“The shop?” Atticus asked as everyone stood, wondering what they should do at that news.
“No. The Youth Center.”
