"They're looking at me like—like—" Her voice cracked.
"They risked everything to break you out," Maggie interrupted, tone still soothing, controlled. "You owe them your gratitude."
"I want to come home," Cici whispered. "I need to get back to Denver. Please."
"I didn't orchestrate your escape so you could throw yourself back into the fire," Maggie said gently. "Everything has a purpose, darling. Even discomfort. Especially discomfort."
Cici's fingers clenched around the phone.
"I need you to be brave," her aunt continued. "Adapt. Make connections. These men—rough as they are—might be your greatest allies, if you let them. Ferocity recognizes ferocity."
"I don't want to be alone with them."
"You're not alone," Maggie said softly. "You're being taught."
A beat of si
