Alec shook his head, grin rueful, and ran a battle worn hand through his shaggy hair. 
“Dangerous game you’re playing, August.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” I retorted, too quickly.
Something vaguely resembling a smirk tugged at the corners of Ansel’s lips as silver eyes flicked to Alec, whose face split in amusement. “Oblivious,” Alec’s eyes darted back to me, “or stupid?”
“Excuse me?” I straightened as both men turned to survey me, anger and embarrassment heating my cheeks. Probably my cue to unwind my hold on Alvara, but the idea of leaving her unprotected…
Ansel nudged Alec with a shoulder. “Come on man, give the kid a break, he’s still adjusting. He’ll learn.”
“Uh…thanks?” I quirked my head, not sure if his tone should leave me relieved, or insulted.
“You’ve got this Rookie.” Ansel turned towards the hall, sliding cash from his pocket and palming it to Alec without even an attempt at subtlety. He lowered his voice enough to sound sneaky without actually achieving it, “Put me down for stupid.”