Chapter 130

Jayden's POV.

I gripped the phone tighter, the name "Timmy" still flashing on the screen, a beacon of anxiety that I now had to manage.

Taking a deep, steadying breath, I swiped to answer.

"Timmy," I began, my voice deliberately neutral, trying to project a confidence I didn't feel.

"I expected you to sound happier, partner," Timmy's voice was smooth, almost jovial, which only served to heighten my unease.

"I apologize. The circumstances are... stressful," I ...