Hayley’s POV

 

How we ended up here was something I couldn't understand. But I knew we were searching for Aiden, and this was where it led us. My heart thumped in my chest.

 

Every ignored phone call felt like it lasted forever, with only Alessa's heavy breathing breaking the silence.

 

"Please answer the phone," I quietly said to myself, experiencing a wave of powerless exasperation.

 

At last, a harsh voice broke the taut stillness. "Alessa, are you there? What is the matter?"

 

I felt such powerful relief that it nearly threw me off balance. Alessa began a panicked description, her voice filled with sobs. I paid close attention, putting together...