A few hours later, Lucy found herself wandering again. The book now sat on her nightstand. She had finished another chapter but couldn’t shake the restlessness. Her feet led her down a long hallway she hadn’t explored before.
A door at the end was slightly ajar. Voices drifted from inside.
Curious, she pushed it open just enough and stepped in.
The room fell silent.
Five men sat around a large table. Maps, folders, and glasses of water were in front of them. At the head of the table, Barry turned slowly in his chair.
His cold eyes landed on her.
"Lost, little bird?" he asked, voice calm but sharp.
Lucy froze. "I...I'm sorry. I didn’t know this room was being used. I was just... walking."
He held her gaze for a long beat. Then, to everyone’s surprise, he said, "Come here."
She hesi
