ARIA’S POV

I recognized that voice anywhere. The very voice I was excited to hear, the same one I wanted nothing more but to share the success and progress made with, but now that I was here, he sounded…different…in a way that made me feel sick in my stomach.

“Of course.” I leaned in closer, trying to get a better understanding, but everything he said sounded meaningless on its own. Clearly, I could only hear his side of the conversation.

“Just stand by and get ready to initiate phase two,”

I raised my hand, contemplating whether I should knock on the door or not. Eventually, I decided against it. I...