Chapter One

Desperation feels heavier than I ever imagined. Every time I looked at my bank balance, it felt like a stone pressing against my ribs in my chest. Rent is past due. The tuition is past due. Even my meagre part-time job at the bookshop wasn't enough to support me while I was in school.

I initially laughed when Nadia murmured, "I know someone who can resolve everything for you, if you're brave enough," while leaning across our sticky diner table. But I paused at the serious, even respectful tone with which she spoke.

"Resolve everything?" As I stirred the diluted cup of coffee in front of me, I...