Elena's POV

By the time I finally shut down my laptop, the office was almost empty, the low hum of the building settling into evening quiet.

I tried calling Damien again during lunch.

He still hadn’t called back.

I told myself it didn’t bother me, but that was a lie.

Around six, I texted Caleb.

Me: Are you busy tonight?

Caleb: Depends. Should I be worried?

Me: I need to talk to you.

Caleb: That sounds serious. Do I need backup?

Me: Caleb…

Caleb: Okay okay. I’ll pick you up at ...