Chapter 17

The faint glow of dawn spilled through the curtains, painting the room in soft hues of gray and gold. Amelia knelt at the bedside, her hands clasped, lips moving in quiet supplication. The steady rise and fall of Adrian’s chest on the bed behind her told her he was still lost in sleep.

She whispered her final “Amen” and opened her eyes just as a sharp vibration broke the silence. Adrian’s phone lit up on the nightstand beside her. Curious, she tilted it slightly and frowned at the name flashing on the screen.

The Automobile Guy.

“Baby,” she called softly, giving his arm a gentle tap.

He didn’t stir.

She tapped again, firmer this time. He jolted awake with a start, blinking hard.

“Hey, babe,” she said, pointing at the glowing screen. “The Automobile Guy is calling.”

He reached out groggily, squinting at the phone before rubbing his eyes.

“Why is he calling this early?” Amelia asked, her tone laced with curiosity.

Adrian sighed, vo