ALIANA

I return to work like nothing inside me has shifted with every intent to get some investigation done though Michael objected countless times.

The building smells the same as it did before I left- polish, coffee, money. The receptionist freezes when she sees me, eyes going wide, then she stands too fast.

“Ms. Aliana—”

“I’m fine,” I say calmly. “Please don’t announce me.”

She nods, flustered.

Evera is on my left. Lily on my right. Jenna behind me like a loaded weapon with good hair.

None of them are smiling.

Grace’s office is sealed. HR hasn’t touched it yet. Michael ordered that much.

I stop in front of the...