Thin and pale morning light filtered through the blinds, but Liam felt none of its warmth. His body buzzed with exhaustion, nerves frayed after the midnight call. He hadn’t slept a wink, just replayed the words repeatedly: Mutual benefit. Favors. Loyalty.

His eyes burned red when he dragged himself to St. Augustine’s. Sofia perked up when he entered, her hair still tangled, and there was a faint bruise along her arm from the accident.

“You look like crap,” she teased, though her voice ...