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“No.”

I look at the report.

“Let her notice.”

“Why?”

“I want to see who she runs to.”

CHAPTER 51

EMMA

Austin feels exactly like I left it.

During my connection, I bought a replacement phone and left Celeste two voicemails. The first described what happened in Lisbon. The second told her I was coming to the office.

She has not answered either.

I collect my car from home and drive to the office.

By the time I reach the office, it’s obvious I no longer work there.

My badge flashes red at the turnstile.

I try it again.

Same result.

The receptionist stands.

“Emma.”

I hold up the rejected badge.

She looks at my hand, then at the clothes I flew home in, then back at my face.

“I need to see Celeste.”

“She asked that you wait here.”

“Yeah, that’s not going to work for me.”

“Emma—”

I walk around the desk.

She comes after me for three steps, then stops.

There are advantages to looking like no one should touch you.

The elevator works without a badge, which is something they are going to want to think through later.

Upstairs, everything is exactly where I left it.

Someone is laughing near the conference room. A printer runs. Two specialists are standing over a catalog proof arguing about whether a blue is too blue.

My office door is open.