~Norman~

Each step toward Liliana’s hotel room feels like I’m walking toward a final showdown. Behind me, the elevator doors just closed on two undercover officers. They are waiting for my signal to move in. They’re only giving me this chance because of my name and the evidence I’ve already given them.

I reach the door and don’t wait. I knock three times, loud and sharp. The sound echoes down the quiet hallway.

The lock clicks, and the door opens. Liliana is standing there, ...