Aria's POV
Silence stretched between us. I hated the fact that without him, I had no way of finding out who the hacker was. No path to exposing whoever kept saving Claudia.
Lydia sighed. We don't have many choices.
"I know."
I looked back at Ryder. "Fine. We have an agreement."
His eyes brightened slightly. He extended his hand. After a brief hesitation, I shook it. His grip was warm and firm.
"Pleasure doing business with you, Wildcat."
"Don't call me that."
"We'll negotiate that later."
I withdrew my hand immediately. "This is strictly temporary." I turned toward the door. "We'll speak again."
"I'll contact you."
I had almost reached the exit when his voice stopped me.
"Aria."
I glanced back. His gaze rested on me with strange intensity.
"Has anyone ever told you that you l
