Chapter 13: Crossroads

Nathan left at dawn, his driver picking him up while I lay in the ruined sheets.

He didn’t force me, didn’t even say goodbye. But soon after, my father’s old case—once swept away by Nathan—was reopened. FBI at the door, warrants, threats.

My parents fell ill from the stress. I scrambled for help, but every door closed in my face.

That night, I was turned away from Senator Morrison’s home, clutching bribes that now felt ridiculous. The wind cut through me as I waited at the crosswalk.

I dropped the gifts and started laughing—hysterical, doubled over. Tears streamed down my face as strangers hurried past.

My phone buzzed—Thompson again. "Miss Morgan, Mr. Brooks wants to know when you’re returning to D.C."

I stood in the freezing wind, fingers and face numb, traffic lights changing over and over. I stood on the crosswalk, frozen, while the world spun on. Somewhere, Nathan Brooks was waiting—and this time, I wasn’t sure I’d survive it.

Only when I was frozen through did I finally answer. "Tell Nathan Brooks to come see me—I have something I need to make clear with him first."