MAXINE

We left the bed and settled down on the ground. Zel and I sat cross-legged on the floor of my room, leaning in close so we could whisper without being overheard by the guards. My heart raced in my chest as we talked, each word spoken in low tones. Our heads were almost touched by our closeness.

I could feel the heaviness of what we were about to attempt pressing down on me. But, there was the feeling of anticipation that rushed through my veins. We had to make this work.

“So, how ...