Chapter 22
Emma’s stomach growled, reminding her that lunch had been hours ago and on another planet. Elle had said something about food.
Wait, why hadn’t Elle joined her after John and Layton left?
The door chimes sounded again.
Ah. That was why; she’d sensed John and Layton must have forgotten to tell her something and were coming back.
She sighed and touched the plate that opened the door.
“Yes, J—Mr. Franklin?” How had he managed to get to this level? Even John and Layton didn’t generally come up here. “It’s rather late.”
“I know, ma’am. I regret disturbing you at this time of night.” He looked tired. “I’ve…there’s something I have to tell you.”
“It can’t wait until tomorrow?”
“No. May I come in? This won’t take long, I promise you.”
“All right.” She stepped aside.
“Look, I
