I stood as well. “I will.”
With that, I stepped out of her quarters, the door closing softly behind me.
The moment I stepped out of Dr. Adams’ quarters, I exhaled slowly and reached for my phone. I just needed a minute to process everything—just one minute—but the universe didn’t care about my timing today.
My phone buzzed before I even unlocked it.
Helen.
I stared at the screen for a moment, debating whether to breathe first or brace myself. I wondered why she was calling… I answered.
“Ale—xander.” Her voice stretched my name like a scolding wrapped in silk. “Tell me what I heard is not true.”
I pinched the bridge of my nose. “Good morning to you too, Mother.”
She ignored the greeting entirely. “I cannot believe you neglected something so important.”
Here we go.
“I beg your pard
