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.

then turned away to pour himself a glass of water. "If it hadn't been me, you'd be in real trouble

the man from the

with him, no

his eyebrows at her. “I imagine you're already shaken. This isn't the safe, orderly life you're used to back home. When

cut straight to the point, her voice

they were still friends. “Business. There's a

didn't bother with pleasantries either. "Why did

taking a sip of 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 grateful. But I need to leave now-I have urgent business." Elodie didn't want to

to make

Every second counted.

"What's the rush?"

tilted his head, grinning.

Elodie's eyes flashed.

a word

history knowing Watts and

read every flicker of emotion on her face. He narrowed his eyes, then shrugged. "Don't worry, I'm up to anything. I've already

to look for Mr.

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

her lips

couldn't read

really helping her

did he even know