Page 41 of Shadowing You

Ethan’s question was followed by a long pause. “Nobody blames you, man. You had nothing to do with Gavin’s…indiscretion.”

“I’m just the result of it.”

“Doesn’t make it your fault. Your sisters know that.”

Maybe, intellectually, but that didn’t change how they felt about him.

He’d deal with all of that later. “Are we still safe here?”

“Your name’s not attached to the room, and there are no cameras with eyes on the building. Gavin and I are watching the feeds. You’re safe.”

“That’s good to know.”

“What’ve you learned about this pit stop in Fuyin? Any idea why she needs to go back there?”

When Ethan had called Michael from the car the day before, he’d explained Mei Lin’s insistence that they return to the hospital where she used to work.

The shower was still running down the hall. “She was in prison.”

“No kidding? How? How did you not know?”

“I guess it wasn’t legal. Someone just stowed her there, which is why she’s out. The new warden told her there were no records supporting her incarceration and just let her go.”

Michael whistled. “That took some courage. I hope the warden doesn’t experience any blowback. Any idea who did it?”

“Apparently, a doctor she used to work with was involved in some kind of crime, and Mei Lin found out. She was gathering evidence about him. The evidence is in Fuyin.”

“I see.” Michael was quiet for a moment. “Where exactly?”

“I don’t know yet.”

“Name of the doctor?”

“Lu Feng.”

“Got it. I’ll look into him and learn everything I can about the village. Once we have a plan, I’ll hire a black car to get you two in and out. You’re going to need to move fast.”

The thought of taking Mei Lin back there sickened him.

“Meanwhile,” Michael said, “rest, find out everything you can, and call me back when you’re ready to make a plan.”

“I will. And…thank you. I appreciate all you’re doing for us.”

“You’re family, and so is she. Talk soon.”

Ethan stood for a moment, phone in his hand, even after the call ended, taking in his cousin’s words.

You’re family. So is she.

He’d been a Wright his whole life, but he’d been a secret for most of it. Now he had a cousin he’d never met fielding calls at all times of the day and night in America… Because he was family.

Five minutes later, Ethan got a Signal notification.

DW

Just wanted to say hey. Michael updated us. We’re praying for you.

Us? Who was us?