*Lauren*

The shrill ring of my phone yanked me from the depths of sleep, and my heart slammed against my ribs like a panicked bird. Fumbling in the dark, I grasped the device, squinting at the harsh light of the screen. Lucas's name glowed back at me, and my stomach twisted with sudden dread. It was late—too late for casual calls.

Did something happen? Was he hurt? Was someone else hurt?

"Lucas?" My voice quivered, betraying my fear. "What's wrong? Are you ...