CHAPTER 32

Ethan’s eyes were narrowed, unreadable. “She’s playing you.” Pearl didn’t answer. She just sat down slowly on the armrest of the couch, as if Fiona’s words were still unraveling in her mind. “She knows she’s cornered,” Ethan continued. “That’s the only reason she’s giving up names now. Why would she offer to confess unless it helps her?” Pearl nodded faintly, but her gaze was far away. Ethan dropped the mug on the table a little too loudly. “You’re not actually considering going to see her.” “I am,” she said quietly. He stepped closer. “Pearl, she’s manipulating you. Again. This is just another move to pull you into her mess and out of hers.” “I’m not going for her,” Pearl said. Her voice was calm but carried something resolute, like the quiet right before a storm. “I’m going for me.” Ethan stared at her for a long moment. Then, finally, his voice lowered. “I’m not going to tell you what to do but be careful. You know her better than me.” “I’m not going there to believe her,”