How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

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

she knew she had to play

just watched 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 once

He wondered-

didn't Elodie

wasn't any less than Jarrod, not in

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

"Don't trouble yourself. I just want to leave as soon

face, but he

a glass of juice.

stood

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

Outside, Watts' phone rang.

ID, then stepped into the courtyard

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

officially involved now

pull

all the stops to find their

lips twisted in a humorless

was Jarrod

in a crisis, he'd immediately think of the most powerful

the authorities

there

detavas

no way to keep

for long.

pressure, they'd turn

Watts asked, "What about Jarrod's

there. Chances are, it's life

and stared at the blazing

were chaotic over there