ZORA
I brought the vehicle to a halt in a secluded clearing with thick trees, their branches interlocking like skeletal fingers blocking out the sun.
My heart hammered against my ribs and my palms were slick with cold sweat against the steering wheel.
I knew the risks of coming here, but the fear of the man waiting for me was the only thing stronger than my desire to disappear.
I reached for the oversized black hoodie in the passenger seat, pulling it over my head and tugging the drawstring tight, then slid on a pair of shades.
Stepping out of the car and locking it, I walked toward the hidden entrance of the lair. The guard at the perimeter didn't speak; he simply scanned my face and stepped aside with a curt, mechanical nod.
Yes, he knew who I was.
He led me through a series
