I had to find a way to get to my room before the guards did.

“Sit down, Cameron,” Matteo said, not turning around.

I sat on the edge of an armchair near the door.

Mrs. Higgins watched me, her fingers twitching on her lap.

“This is an outrage, Matteo,” Silvio said, lighting his cigar. “Treating your loyal staff like criminals because of a common maid.”

“I trust no one,” Matteo said.

The rain began to beat hard against the glass.

In the distance, the elevator chimed again.

The doors slid open, and a man in a wet trench coat stepped out.

It was Dr. Harrison, Leo’s specialist.

He looked pale and flustered, holding his black leather bag.

“Mr. DeLuca,” Dr. Harrison said, catching his breath. “I came as soon as I got your message.”

Matteo turned around slowly.

“Doctor,” Matteo said. “I want you to test my son’s blood again. Right now.”

Mrs. Higgins stiffened.

Her eyes darted to the hallway where the guards were searching.

I held my breath, praying they wouldn’t find the jar under my bed.