Amelia’s heart raced, her mind scrambling for a response. She knew she couldn’t leave with him but outrightly refusing him would raise alarms. She needed more time. Forcing a smile, she said, “Actually, I’d like to have one last drink.” The bar was almost empty at this point.
Jonathan’s jaw tightened but he nodded reluctantly. “Sure, we can do that,” he said, his tone strained as if he were trying to mask his frustration. Amelia could feel the tension between them growing, each moment amplifying her fear and uncertainty.