The call still wouldn't go through.

That was unexpected.

Watts met Elodie's eyes, then glanced at the phone in her hand. "No luck? Maybe most of the networks are down. Try again in a while."

Something flickered across Elodie's face-a feeling she couldn't quite name, a tiny sting that left her unsettled.

She didn't say a word.

Watts checked his watch. "Are you hungry? I'll have them bring you something to eat."

He stood up. "Just stay calm for now. You're a long way from home, and not everyone here is trustworthy. But while you're with me, you're safe. I promise."

The words had the effect of a sedative, meant to settle her nerves.

Elodie remained silent.

She turned toward the window.

Armed men still patrolled outside.

Clearly, this wasn't the sort of place you could come and go as you pleased.

She knew Watts had a point, but as far as she was concerned, his promise of safety didn't carry much weight.

The food was ready quickly-Watts had seen to it himself.

Elodie glanced at the spread: dishes from her own country.

Without revealing anything, she asked quietly, "What about the people who came here with me?"

Watts ladled soup into a bowl for her, his manner calm and unhurried. "They're all resting elsewhere. Later, they'll be escorted out."

no overt malice from the very start, Elodie

she knew she had to

her, his gaze steady. Elodie was as composed as ever, showing no change, no sign of discomfort. That calm was precisely what frustrated him. He'd tried to win her over for so long, and she'd never

He wondered-

Elodie

than Jarrod, not in family, not

to do, I'll keep you company." He

voice mild. "Don't trouble yourself. I just

Watts' face, but he kept

her a glass of

he stood and walked

closed behind him, Elodie set down her spoon and silently studied the layout of the house around

Outside, Watts' phone rang.

caller ID, then stepped

not looking good. Jarrod's people have already authorities back

officially involved now

pull

all the stops to find their

lips twisted in a

That was Jarrod

immediately think of the most

authorities on the

there

detavas

no way to keep

for long.

pressure,

of responding, Watts asked, "What about

he's already there. Chances are, it's life or

and stared at the blazing

chaotic over there anything could

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