Annelise Valentine took out her phone and called Zane Patterson.
He picked up almost instantly.
"Annelise." Zane Patterson's voice was a little stronger than before, but still tinged with weakness.
"Zane, I..." Annelise Valentine opened her mouth, wanting to explain, but what could she say?
'That Jett Westgate, that madman, had dragged me back like a helpless chick and threatened me?' The mere thought of it made her feel humiliated and hopeless.
The other end of the line was silent for two seconds.
Just as Annelise Valentine was clenching her phone, steeling herself to speak, Zane Patterson's voice came through:
"I know. Get some rest."
"What do you know?"
"It's too late tonight. Just stay home and rest. Don't run yourself ragged."
Zane Patterson didn't spell it out, but the meaning behind his words was crystal clear.
