|Helena|
The heavy clouds outside mirrored the weight in my chest. Days had passed since Brian’s sudden disappearance, leaving behind a trail of questions and no answers. I wanted to believe it was over, that he was gone for good, but something told me his exit wasn’t the end—it was the calm before the storm.
I was buried in work, reviewing documents for Michael’s ongoing case, when my phone buzzed. The unknown number immediately raised alarms. I hesitated but answered, my voice steady.
“Helena speaking.”
The voice on the other end made my stomach turn.
“Hello, Helena. Surprised to hear from me?”
It was Brian.
“What do you want?” I spat, my hand tightening around the phone.
“Relax, darling. I’m calling to offer you a deal,” he said, his tone sickeningly smug. “You’ve always been go
