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."

the very start, Elodie couldn't ignore the

confront him; she knew she had to

steady. Elodie was as composed as ever, showing no change, no sign of discomfort. That calm was precisely what

He wondered-

didn't Elodie

than Jarrod,

bored, just say the word. Whatever you want to do, I'll keep you

trouble yourself. I just want to leave

shadow crossed Watts' face,

a glass of juice.

stood and

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

Outside, Watts' phone rang.

caller ID, then stepped into the

Jarrod's people have already authorities back

officially involved now

pull

the stops to

lips twisted in a

That was Jarrod

in a crisis, he'd immediately

authorities on the

there

detavas

no way to keep

for long.

the pressure, they'd turn the whole area

of responding, Watts asked, "What about

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

head back and stared at the

chaotic over there anything

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