Chapter 58

The moment the corridor lights went out, Ethan Sullivan felt the same suffocating dread. But he couldn't afford to think about himself.

He had to admit—in that instant, only one thought consumed him: Evelyn Laurent must be kept safe.

Because in his dazed state, he'd almost convinced himself she was the person he'd been searching for.

Ethan's gaze darkened.

He held his phone in one hand, demanding updates from Harrison Whitmore. His other hand remained trapped in Evelyn's desperate grip.

Keeping her here had been a precaution—to shield her from certain truths. He feared her impulsive nature might drive her to pummel every last one of those men.

That was why Victoria Langley and the others had left.

But who could've predicted their planned solitude would dissolve into a storm, a blackout, and the onset of claustrophobia?

Ethan looked down at the woman curled against him.

All her usual sharp edges had melted away. Her pale face was a canvas of vulnerability. She huddled like a frightened fawn.

His phone vibrated abruptly.

Harrison's call.

The moment Ethan answered, white-hot pain lanced through his hand. Evelyn had unconsciously tightened her grip.

"Mn."

Harrison's voice cut off mid-sentence.

Had he misheard?

"Continue," Ethan commanded coldly.

Harrison hurried to report—only to hear another muffled groan.

This time, unmistakably female!

Harrison's eyes widened.

Then came the real shock: Evelyn's tearful accusation, "Ethan Sullivan, you're hurting me!"

Her voice bore no resemblance to its usual timbre—hoarse yet laced with an unfamiliar softness that left Harrison utterly speechless.