Chapter 71

Across from me, Kelsey's brows knit together, her confusion palpable.

"For now," Simon mutters, his words raw and strained, each syllable stained with agony.

I press the phone closer, my heart hammering as I focus on the harsh, ragged breaths spilling through the line. "Simon, are you okay? Where are you?"

"Home," he whispers hoarsely.

That single word is enough to ignite a sense of urgency. He's in trouble—serious trouble. Especially if he's calling me of all people. "I'm coming," I say firmly, and before I can ask anything else, the line goes dead. I don't need more, that was confirmation enough.

 I'm already moving, pushing to my feet in a frantic rush.

Kelsey stares at me, wide-eyed and incredulous. "Where are you going?"

"I need to help someone," I say quickly, pocketing my phone. "But I need your help to do it. I'm still under guard, and I have to go somewhere they can't follow."