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.

a glass of water. "If it hadn't been me, you'd be in real trouble with that man back

thought of the man

quarrel with

He just raised his eyebrows at her. “I imagine you're already shaken. This isn't the safe, orderly life you're used

Elodie cut straight to the point, her

pretended not to notice. He kept the tone easy, almost as if they were still friends. “Business. There's a mining operation here I'm interested in. I'm staying for

bother with pleasantries either. "Why did you

water as he looked at her. "My work's confidential. It's just how things are done here. If it bothers you, I'll return it later." "Mr. Aldridge, I don't care how you knew I was there today, or why you chose to help me. I'm

make sure

Every second counted.

"What's the rush?"

tilted his head, grinning. "You're looking

Elodie's eyes flashed.

hadn't said a

knowing Watts and Jarrod had unfinished business. She didn't want to make

face. He narrowed his eyes, then shrugged. "Don't worry,

look for Mr.

said you're safe here. As soon as there's

her

read Watts at

helping

did he even know