Ella’s eyes were huge in the dim light, her small body curled into a corner of the cell like a wild thing ready to bolt. Landon crouched low, hands up, careful not to crowd her.
“Hey,” he said softly, keeping his voice low and even. “I’m not here to hurt you.”
She didn’t move. Just stared at him, face pale and streaked with grime, braid hanging loose over her shoulder.
“The woman who gave you the protein bar?” he continued. “She sent me. Said you’d know.”
A flicker of recognition. A twitch of her fingers.
“That’s right,” Landon murmured. “She wanted me to make sure you’re safe. Can I take you to her?”
Still no words, but she slowly uncurled, her eyes searching his like she was trying to find the lie. He didn’t blame her. This place? It beat the truth out of people.
“I’m going to pic
