Chapter 16

Archer.

The rowdy hum of Teddy's bar thrummed in my ears as I nursed my beer, the buzz of voices and clinking glasses creating a cocoon of noise around me. The dim lighting cast long shadows, and the scent of alcohol mingled with the faint odor of sweat and cologne. My friends, a motley crew of construction workers and town regulars, filled the air with laughter and shouts, their faces flushed with alcohol and good spirits.

I took a long sip, feeling the cold liquid slide down my throat, and let my gaze wander aimlessly around the bar. Just another night trying to forget the chaos outside these walls. Suddenly, Leon’s voice cut through the din, louder than usual.

"Bro, look at this video! It's gone viral now."

I barely glanced his way, rolling my eyes. "I'm not interested in your porn vids, man—"

"It's about Katrina, you dumbshit!" Leon shot back, his words sharp enough to pierce through my indifference.

At the mention of her name, my heart skipped a beat. I turned quickly, snatching