Adrian’s phone buzzed softly on his desk. He had just finished closing the investigation files he’d been working on with Deviana. The clock showed it was nearly midnight. His eyes were tired, but his mind kept racing, strategizing tomorrow’s next move.

The familiar ringtone made his brows furrow. The name glowing on the screen froze him in place: Vanessa.

He let out a sharp breath. “What does she want now?” he muttered, ready to ignore it. Yet somehow, his fingers betrayed him, pressing the green button.

The voice on the other end made his heart stop.

“Adrian…” The voice was hoarse, trembling, thick with held-back sobs. “Help me… I can’t...