The following morning, Ella’s phone buzzed again. This time, it was Derek calling. She answered, her voice low so as not to wake the boys.
"What’s the latest?" she asked, her heart pounding.
"Tania’s losing control," Derek replied. "She’s becoming reckless. I heard from one of my contacts that she’s started asking around publicly. That means she’s close, Ella. You need to act fast."
Ella's breath caught in her throat. She had been running for so long, but it felt like the walls were finally closing in on her. "And what about Fabian? Is he still looking for me?"
Derek hesitated before answering. "Yes, but it’s complicated. I think Fabian’s conflicted. He’s working with Crystal, but from what I’ve heard, he’s trying to keep her from finding you too quickly. He’s stalling her."
Ella sank
