Chapter 20 Game Of Secrets

• I perch on the window seat of our assigned bedroom, eyes fixed on the door as I wait for Efrem's return. He left me here with Alek standing guard outside, his usual command to stay put still ringing in my ears. This time though, I have no intention of testing the waters. I will obey.
• Things are different here.
• One thing is clear: we're not the only guests invited. I overheard Deonta'e telling a guard that the other Ringleaders will arrive tomorrow. At first, I was too preoccupied with the prospect of seeing Haden again to consider why we're here an entire day early.