Nineteen

Zane

I sat on my bed, phone in hand, staring at Belle’s voicemail for what felt like the hundredth time. Her voice, though automated and distant, still brought a rush of emotions every time I heard it.

“Hi, this is Belle. I can’t answer the phone right now. Please leave a message, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.”

Fuck! I needed to get to her brother, Ben Perri, as soon as possible.

But before I could send a message to Fletcher to help me get Ben Perri’s details, Zeke called, and I smiled. “Hello, brother,” I said as I answered.

“Hey Zane, what’s up?” He asked.

“I am alright I guess,” I replied.

“Whatever is wrong with you, fix it,” Zeke said, but I could tell how concerned he was from his tone.

“Yes brother, I always do,” I replied.

“Good. Any headway on the attack?” Zeke asked.

I began, trying to keep my voice steady. “Not much. We’ve identified some low-level players, but the big fish are still out of reach. We’re closing in, though.”

“Keep at it. We need to bring these