“I’m sure you’ve got a better explanation than that.”

Esther swallowed hard. Her fingers twisted the hem of her shirt as if the soft fabric could anchor her trembling nerves. Her teeth worried her bottom lip, a nervous gesture she’d carried since childhood.

Across from her, Elson’s foot tapped against the floor in restless rhythm. His eyes, sharp and questioning, stayed locked on her face while the seconds stretched between them. It was too late for her to be just getting home and ...