Sophia drove through the sleeping streets of Valenridge with both hands tight on the steering wheel. The location from the anonymous message kept flashing in her mind.
The private clinic.Her brother.
She had spent years protecting him from people who wanted to use him.
Now she wasn't sure whether she had failed.
The clinic appeared ahead.
A small building surrounded by tall trees and a high security fence.
Sophia parked and remained inside the car for several seconds. She checked the time.
12:47 a.m. Too late for a normal visit.
Exactly the kind of hour the Council preferred.
She stepped out.
The security guard at the entrance immediately recognized her.
"Doctor Laurent?"
"Yes."
"Your brother is asleep."
Sophia stopped.
"Is he all right?"
The guard hesitated.
"He was earlier."
Her stomach tightened.
"What does that mean?"
"You should speak with the night physician."
Sophia entered without another word.
The corridors were quiet.
