Author's POV
Serena gave a single, grim nod, her eyes darkening like gathering storm clouds. "I suspect it. Has Mr. Alvin reported anything? Any preliminary findings from the investigation?"
"Been too busy putting out metaphorical fires at the studio and running here," Sally admitted, pulling out her phone. "Want me to call him now?"
Before Serena could nod, the door to the private room swung open.
Ryan Blackwood stood framed in the doorway. His face was unnaturally pale, stark against the dark fabric of his coat, a clear testament to his own battle with smoke inhalation. The very air in the room seemed to crystallize.
Serena's gaze lifted and accidentally crashed into his gray-blue eyes. What she saw there was a turbulent sea—concern, a flicker of residual fear, and an in
