POV: Evelyn Reeve
I collapsed into my chair, the last of my strength evaporating like mist under the harsh Florida sun.
The iced latte sat on the edge of the mahogany desk. I stared at it, watching the condensation bead and trail down the plastic cup like cold sweat. I had to force my hands to stay still. If I didn't, everyone in the Meridian office would see the tremor I couldn't suppress.
Breathe.
In for four. Out for six. My heart was a frantic bird hammering against its cage, refusing to settle.
"Thanks for pulling me out of there, Maya," I whispered. My voice sounded thin, even to my own ears.
Maya didn't move. She leaned against the partition, her eyes searching mine with the precision of a forensic analyst. She saw the cracks. She always did.
"What did Chloe say to you, Ev?"
