Page 187 of Fractured Allegiance

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Normal volume, sounds tired. Expected.

She then lifts the glass to her lips. Takes a sip.

And in that moment—when the glass is at her lips, when the sound of water and the clink of dishes create just enough noise—she leans forward slightly.

Her lips barely move.

"Elias Voss. Call him. Please."

A whisper that’s barely audible.

But I hear it.

I don't look at her, I don't react.

I just nod once. So small it could be nothing.

Then I leave.

Dom is waiting in the hallway, watching.

"She say anything?"

"Just 'thank you.' For the food."

Dom studies me. "And?"

"And nothing. She's quiet."

He smirks. "Good. Keep it that way. Oh, and Silas?"

I wait.

"Keep the key. Might need it again."

He walks away, leaving me standing there.

With the key.

Again.

I pocket it slowly.

Elias Voss.

I don't know who that is.

But Lydia does.

And she risked everything to tell me.

I take my position against the wall.

And I repeat the name in my head.

Over and over.

So I don't forget.

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