MAYA

"How—how are you doing, then?" Liam asked.

"I’m good," I lied. I stole a glance at Silas as I said it, watching for any flicker of guilt. There was none. "Really good." Silas just picked up a fountain pen from the desk, turning it over in his long fingers as if he were bored.

"What about you?" I asked, desperate to fill the silence.

"I’m okay, Maya. Are you sure you’re good? I saw the news. The headlines..."

"It’s just rumors," I said, struggling to find my voice. "Don't believe them, Liam."

"Are the Blackwoods treating you well?"

"Yeah. They’re really nice people," I lied again. I felt sick....