Chapter 154

Calliope had just parked the car when she realized the gate was locked. A cleaning lady nearby glanced toward the courtyard and said, "Looking for that old cranky lady? Her grandson just came and took her." "Old cranky lady?" Calliope looked puzzled at the nickname. "Yeah," the woman shrugged. "She's been living here for years, super weird tempeinstant noodlest. Barely talks to anyone. We all call her that." Calliope nodded, getting the idea. She looked at the yard again-it seemed she was just a bit too late. Still, a hint of relief washed over her. She honestly didn't feel up for dealing with complete strangers. Back in the car, Calliope reached for her phone out of habit, and a financial news notification popped up. [All official websites of Hilliard Group subsidiaries have gone dark. Mourning the departed, or is a major shake-up coming?] The photo beneath showed the Hilliard logo set against a stark black background-it was heavy, almost suffocating. That line from Olivia came back t