Elin’s POV

“I’m fine… just dizzy,” I murmured, voice rough. But then, a low interrogation echoed from down the hall. Erikson’s voice, laced with Beta authority yet edged with urgency: “You! Janitor, what did you say to the madam? Who sent you? Speak!”

My heart lurched, steps halting. Janitor? The woman who slipped me the note! Istha perked inside, claws pricking my fingertips. Erikson caught her? At the corner, his towering frame blocked the way, the middle-aged cleaner ...