Chapter Sixty Nine

Damien's firm tone began as he reminded her, "Before heading to work, feedback on the outing with Tina was needed from you, but you neglected to provide it. As for now, I will let it slide."

"But as soon as you're done, meet me at the outskirts of the city," Damien continued, his sense of urgency palpable. "At Elmwood Park, next to the broken-down ice cream truck. No delays, it's critical. I've found something significant."

"Of course, dear, I'll grab the vegetables on my way back," Emma's calm facade mirrored Damien's instructions to the letter, her tone composed as a worker walked by past her.

"Come alone, without any..." Damien's words were interrupted by a sharp familiar voice.

"Emma?" The interruption caused Emma to startle, fluidly lowering the burner phone she was using for their conversation and disconnecting the call, tucking it away inside her shirt. Her heart thudded in her chest as she pivoted towards the source of the voice.

There stood Trevor Maddox standing proudly, his