Elena's POV
"Shit," I gasped, my pulse racing as the world tilted around me.
I clutched the phone with trembling fingers, fighting to keep upright.
"Ma'am—Elena, are you alright?" Juniper's concerned voice drifted from behind me.
I managed a weak nod, gripping the closet doorframe as dizziness swept through me. Despite my spinning head, I pressed the answer button.
"Hello, Ms. Elena," Julian's voice came through, low and menacing, making my chest constrict further.
"Julian..." My voice broke on his name.
"How's New York treating you?" His tone dripped with mockery.
I went rigid. How the hell did Julian know my location?
Terror shot through me from chest to legs. My knees gave out, and I collapsed onto the couch.
"Are you alright?" Juniper whispered.
I lifted a shaky hand, pressing my lips together.
"Still there, Ms. Elena?" Julian's voice turned predatory.
"Yes," I whispered, barely managing the word.
