68

The sun was just beginning to light up my room when I got out of bed. I went straight to the bathroom, trying to clear my mind of worries as the hot water ran over my skin. I had to focus on my classes and what would come next.

I finished showering, dressed quickly, and went down to the kitchen. My dad was already there, holding a cup of coffee with a pensive look on his face.

"Good morning, Dad," I said, trying to sound casual.

"Good morning, Eva. Did you sleep well?" he asked, though his eyes showed he had something else on his mind.

"Surprisingly well, given the circumstances," I replied, pouring myself a glass of juice. "Listen, Dad, I've been thinking about what you said last night, about Kessler and everything that's going on. I'm determined to help resolve this safely."

He sighed and nodded. "I know, Eva. But you have to promise me you'll be careful. I don't want anything to happen to you."

"I promise, Dad. Kessler and I are going to talk to his mother today. We'll try to find