Chapter 15

“It’s nothing, just a flu bug. I need to be able to lie down at home. I’ll text you the address before my phone dies on me.” My voice fails, croaking to nothingness by the end of my sentence as sirens blare nearby on the road past the park.

“Are you outside?” He sounds stern and bossy, a little Alexi momentarily, and it sobers me right up. That connection is never far away, and I nod silently, searching for some strength to give him.

“It was safer than where I was.” It slices to speak this time, and I hold my throat as I squeak down the phone. I need some water, some warmth.

“Jesus Christ. Text me now. I’m getting in my car. Hang up and get back to where I can meet you. I’ll be there ASAP.” He’s in a commanding tone. The voice he uses to deal with his staff reassures me that he will do what he can for me.

“Okay. I’m a good walk from it now, so I will head back,” I whisper and hang up without hesitation to save battery, not sure whether to feel relieved or in