Chapter 76

• Lillian's breaths grew shallow in the middle of the night, the thick dust in the room choking her. She tried to cry out for help, but only the echoes of her voice answered back. Thirst gnawed at her, and she felt sick as the air refused to fill her lungs properly. Pain shot through her abdomen, and a deep fear for her unborn child gripped her heart. Tears streamed down her face, mingling with the dirt as her vision blurred and consciousness slipped away.
• The next morning, Rico received a terse call from Mrs. Rojas. "Go check on Lillian," she ordered.
• Rico drove to the secluded house and entered the room where Lillian lay motionless on the floor. He became panicked as he saw her pale face and lifeless body. He quickly called Mrs. Rojas.