My chest constricts, and I have the sudden urge to... I don’t know, do something. I don’t know how I’m feeling—completely bewildered, for starters. I turn my head to look out the window, contemplating his words. He’s being upfront, but I get the feeling he’s still holding back. “So, you’re helping to save children and women from sex trafficking,” I conclude. While it doesn’t seem like a lie, it just seems too... simple. “Yes,” he confirms. “I do my own work on the side to bring in the funds to support the organization. Luckily, it's something that allows me, my employees, and every survivor we rescue to live comfortably. But that isn't the only thing we do. The government takes advantage of the public in more ways than stealing their kids. The enslavement of children and women is just my primary focus.” “Okay,” I say slowly, trying to ignore the fluttering in my stomach. “What exactly is Mark involved in?” He sighs, curling his fingers tighter around the steering wheel. “He performed a sadistic ritual on a child. A sacrifice of some sort. Someone recorded and leaked a video of it happening, and another one just leaked.” I cringe, closing my eyes against the pain in my chest. How could anyone do something so vile? “Does Daya know about what’s happening with Mark?” “No. The rituals and Mark’s involvement have been kept under wraps. I’m not ready to expose that until I take them down. It’s something I’ve been handling mostly by myself.” I nod, understanding the implication. Don’t tell Daya. “So that’s why you’re under a different alias. Why not give me a different name?” “Because you’re an average citizen and finding out who you really are would be so incredibly easy, it’s almost laughable. Me, on the other hand, not so much,” he answers, shooting another smirk my way. Ugh. The arrogance. His face turns serious. “This is why I didn’t want you involved. But I’m afraid Mark has already taken notice of you and I’d rather you be close to me. At least this way, I know you’re safe.” I face him, eyeing him closely. He’s relaxed into his seat, his long legs spread, one hand draped over the wheel and the other resting on the armrest between us. I force myself to focus and ignore the way my chest is clenching from just one look. Just because the sun is pretty doesnt mean it’s not dangerous to stare at, Addie. "I believe that you'll protect me from Mark, but who's going to protect me from you?"