CLAIRE

I sat on the couch for another hour, checking my phone obsessively, willing Julian to text again or call or come home, but nothing came.

The news coverage continued, more analysts weighing in, more speculation about charges, more discussion of the Cross family legacy crumbling. I was about to turn off the TV when my phone rang.

Unknown number. I almost didn't answer, assuming it was another reporter or someone looking for a statement, but something made me pick up.

"Hello?" I said cautiously.

"Claire."

I recognized the voice immediately and my entire body went rigid. Ethan. "How did you get this number?" I asked, my voice cold.

"That's...