APRIL
The moment I step into the courtyard, I know something is wrong. The air feels too still, too heavy. My stomach twists as Joe’s voice cracks through the darkness.
“She won’t tell anyone, will you, April? Please, Sergei. Just let her go inside and we’ll talk.”
Sergei’s hand flashes out and slaps him hard across the face. “You do not tell me what to do. Go inside and wait.”
Joe stumbles back, clutching his cheek. His eyes meet mine, full of fear.
“Don’t you leave!” I shout, but he’s already running. He disappears into the bar, the door closing behind him.
That’s when the man with the suitcase steps closer. He sets it down and reaches toward me. I freeze, realizing too late what’s happening. His hand grabs my chest and I start screaming, my voice echoing across the courtyard. I pr
