Later that same day, before Derek returned to me, I got a text message. “Sophia, will you reconsider my proposal?”

“Don't put Derek in a tough spot. He won't be able to get the antidote. Aren't you concerned he'll get hurt?” I typed back.

My hand tightened around the phone until my knuckles turned white. The stress of waiting for his reply drained the color from my face and made my stomach twist into knots.

I couldn't help but think how Brandon used his wealth of ...