Chapter 23. Echoes of Hearts

"We wanted to see if the firm was offering some background check," Silas smoothly interjected, his tone carrying a casual air as if discussing the weather. "I have to deal with this certain person for personal business, and I'd just like to see if he is legit to have a business with." The words flowed from him effortlessly, a skillful fabrication to divert Morgan's attention away from my evident state of distress.

I could sense Morgan's attempt to peer past Silas, her concern for me evident in her searching gaze. She made a subtle move, as if trying to sidestep Silas and reach me. "Okay, but what happened to Isla?" she inquired, her voice laced with a mix of curiosity and genuine worry.

Summoning every ounce of strength within me, I willed myself to pull my scattered thoughts together. With a deep breath, I finally managed to step out from behind Silas, my eyes meeting Morgan's. "I'm just not feeling so well rig