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“Indeed, it did. Let’s go back into the living room so you can tell everyone how you managed that particular feat.”
From the amused look on his face, Saraya guessed he’d already figured out how she managed what seemed impossible to someone other than a fellow ninja. Working any odd job she could find to fund her training while living in places no sane person would consider suddenly felt like a lifetime ago. It was only a short walk back into the main living area, but it felt like she was wearing concrete shoes.
“It’s the adrenaline crash.” The same warm voice from the stairs spoke close to her ear. The warm brush of his breath against the sensitive shell made her shudder. “I saved you a seat and made you a cup of tea with honey. The sugar and caffeine should help.”
Settling on a modern-style sofa, Saraya sighed when she sank into the comfortable cushion. The tea was perfectly sweetened and warm enough to calm her sudden case of nerves. Facing the group of intimidating men, Saraya took a deep breath. Brooks patted her knee and smiled.
“Take your time, and remember, we aren’t the enemy.”
His words were comforting in a way she hadn’t expected. She was still stuck in the fight-or-flight mode she’d felt from the first moment she stepped into the phony modeling office.
Relating her story was easier than she’d expected. The group asked questions to clarify rather than accuse, and a few times, their inquiries were intended to make her think about the experience from a different perspective. An hour into the discussion, Saraya realized she would miss the final confirmation sign-up for the competition in Houston. Damn it, she’d scrimped and saved so she’d have the entry fee, but since she didn’t have the money to make the drive, it didn’t matter.
Blinking to keep the tears burning the backs of her eyes from falling, Saraya saw Lilly nudge the handsome man sitting next to her. He flashed her a quick smile and nodded. Pulling his phone from the front pocket of his tailored shirt, the older man winked at her as he dialed and ducked out of the large room.
“Don’t worry. The Wests know how to get things done. If you want to be entered in the competition in Houston, Del will get it done.” The man who’d been introduced as Brooks smiled when she looked at him in disbelief. “One thing you’ll learn about the folks at Prairie Winds is they take care of their own.”
