The gates of the city jail opened with a groan of iron and concrete. Daniel stood outside, leaning against his car, his jaw tight as his eyes searched the shadow beyond the gates. When Lena appeared, a hollow ache filled his chest.

She looked smaller than before, thinner from weeks of confinement. The clothes she wore were plain and loose, the color drained from her face. But her posture was still stiff, her eyes sharp, carrying the same pride and defiance that had followed her into prison.

Daniel took a step forward. “Lena.”

Her gaze flicked to him, flat and emotionless. “Let’s just go,” she said. No greeting. No gratitude....