The garage was quieter than usual that night. The Vipers were scattered around, a few of them tinkering with bikes, others nursing beers by the corner table. Riley sat on a worn-out stool, wiping grease off her hands with an old rag. She had been staring at the same engine for nearly an hour, turning the same bolt without really paying attention.
Riley,” Marcus’s voice broke through the silence. “You gonna fix that thing or stare it to death?
She forced a laugh. “Guess I lost track.
Marcus frowned. “You’ve been distracted lately. That’s not like you.
She shrugged, avoiding his eyes. “Just tired.
But even as she said it, she knew Marcus wasn’t fooled. Her head was somewhere else, and everyone could see it.
Later that night, when the others had drifted away, Riley lingered behind. She
