She stretched and opened her window, weing the fresh breeze that swept through her room, lifting her spirits.


    Miley had mentioned going out with Alyan the night before, and Dulcie couldnt help but wonder how things had yed out between them.


    Curiosity nagged at her, so she shot Miley a quick message.


    Minutes passed, and there was no reply.


    That was strange.


    Miley usually responded quickly, especially since they had ns to discuss their next steps.


    A knot of concern formed in Dulcies chest as she dialed Mileys number.


    The call went straight to voicemail, telling her the line was off.


    Something wasnt right. Her unease growing, Dulcie dialed Alyan.


    He picked up almost immediately.


    Alyan, were you with Mileyst night? I cant reach her.


    Whats going on? She has been kidnapped by Hollis.


    Alyans voice was raw, each word strained and direct.


    Dulcie froze.


    What? Hollis? How could he-why would he? Her mind raced, struggling toprehend what she had just heard.


    There was a tense pause before Alyans voice cut through the silence again.


    Dulcie, Im in the middle of something. Dont call unless its urgent.


    The line went dead, and the gravity of the situation hit Dulcie hard.


    Her heart raced as she hurried to find Lucinda.


    When Dulcie finally found Lucinda, it became clear she was thest to know.


    Lucindas eyes were tired, shadows darkening beneath themshe hadnt slept muchst night.


    Lucinda, Dulcie said, her voice shaky.


    I just spoke to Alyan.


    Hes nning something against Hollis.


    Lucindas expression darkened, her jaw tightening. Hollis isnt justing after us and the Shaw Group.


    Hes made enemies all over.


    I fear whatever hes nning is about to spiral out of control.


    Ill take care of it.


    Dulcie, just stay put for now.


    Its too dangerous out there.


    With a determined stride, Lucinda turned and left, leaving Dulcie standing there, torn between wanting to help and knowing that staying out of the way was likely the smartest-and safest-choice.


    At exactly eleven oclock, the unmistakable rumble of a familiar Jeep broke the midday quiet as it pulled up outside the hotel.