How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

Elodie raised an eyebrow. "They don't know I'm unwell, or about the surgery. This

is an important assignment—I can't just turn it down."

Of course, she'd cooperate if it ever came to that.

Esmeralda knew Elodie's problem was simply that she took on too much

responsibility.

After helping Elodie settle in, Esmeralda finally noticed a man's jacket draped over her bed.

Fleming had tossed it to her earlier.

On their way here, the sun had been relentless. Fleming had handed her his jacket so she could shield herself from the heat.

Remembering this, Esmeralda said quickly, "I'll go return his jacket. You should get some rest."

Elodie didn't answer, but Esmeralda was already halfway out the door.

Watching Esmeralda's retreating figure, Elodie could see the hope radiating from her. Esmeralda had admired Fleming since they were young-her feelings had always burned bright and steady.

The men's quarters weren't far.

chest as she walked, unable to suppress the sense of delight. Fleming giving her his jacket today he really did care,

had been assigned two to a

reached their door, she overheard voices from

distant, sounded patient for once. "Don't worry. We got here safely. The place isn't

of skepticism. "I don't believe you. I bet it's awful over there. Show me

obliged, turning his phone

with a teasing grin. "What's

about my brother and

Having a sweet sister like that—makes

him a look. "Knock it

hesitated in the hallway, not sure whether to go

her as oddly suggestive-and besides,

little. Fleming was video-calling Lucy so naturally, checking in like it was second nature. She'd never had anything

overseas, they'd only spoken on the phone once in a while. Most

chatting, "So, who else went with

Adrian glanced at

and

"No

bunch-you them all. Heath's here

her lips