How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

Sometimes, all you can do is take things one step at a time.

She followed her guide across the grounds toward another building.

They escorted her upstairs.

The sheer opulence of the place struck her immediately-so out of place in a country where most people seemed to get by with so little.

The gulf between rich and poor was staggering.

As soon as Elodie stepped inside, the heavy door shut behind her.

She frowned and glanced back.

Before she could process much, footsteps echoed from ahead.

She whipped around, alert, every nerve on edge.

And found herself staring into a pair of familiar eyes.

Elodie's brow tightened. "Why is it you?"

She took in the tall, lean man before her, dressed in dark, casual clothes. He still radiated that same youthful energy and undeniable good looks, but now there was something else about him—an air she couldn't quite define.

turned away to pour himself a glass of water.

of the

no quarrel with him, no reason

“I imagine you're already shaken. This isn't the safe, orderly life you're used

are you here?" Elodie cut straight to the point, her voice calm but her

as if they were still friends. “Business. There's a mining

either. "Why did you

are done here. If it bothers you, I'll return it later." "Mr. Aldridge, I don't care how

to make sure

Every second counted.

"What's the rush?"

tilted his head, grinning. "You're looking for

Elodie's eyes flashed.

said a

avoided mentioning him, knowing the history knowing Watts and Jarrod had unfinished

face. He narrowed his eyes, then shrugged.

to look for Mr.

you're safe here. As soon as there's news, you'll be the first to

pressed her

read

helping her find

even know