Maria
The ringtone makes me jump in the still safe house.
As the call connects, I focus on Mikhail and try to draw strength from him. But my hands tremble, and I can't help but feel guilt gnawing at me.
"Put it on FaceTime." Alexander's voice is devoid of emotion.
Mikhail swipes his finger across the screen. His expression is focused, and his jaw is set as he mentally prepares for whatever he will see. Mikhail presses his lips into a thin line, indicating the image is worse than I had anticipated.
"Maria," Dad says quietly, "be ready for anything."
My pulse quickens, and blood pounds in my ears as I brace myself for whatever may be on the screen. I know it will be Mercy. Holding myself tight, I have to look and face it head-on. I had many chances to insist that Mikhail let her go. I
