65

Ava sat in the backseat of the car and could barely keep her eyes open. Last night hadn’t given much room for sleep. But Ava wouldn’t have traded it for all the sleep in the world. The moments she and Zane had shared after he had taken care of James had been profound in a way Ava never had experienced, or thought she would get to share with someone. It felt like they had connected and forged a bond. Ava didn’t want to delude herself by thinking it was love. That was just her wishful thinking. But it was definitely a strong friendship.

“Are you okay, Miss A?” Ryder asked from the front seat.

“I’m fine, Ryder. Just a little tired,” she told him.

“Did the boss keep you awake?” Carlos asked.

“Carlos! You keep your mind on the road, mister,” Ava huffed. The two men laughed and looked back at her through the rearview mirror.

“I would have suggested you sleep a little, but we will be there in two minutes,” Ryder then said.

“I’ll be fine, but thank you.” Gabriel had