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I laugh under my breath, then slip my phone back into my purse. I’m glad Violet’s running late because I really need to pee.

I tell the hostess I'll be right back and follow the small sign toward the rear of the restaurant.

The noise fades slightly as I move down the hallway. I spot the restrooms ahead.

An employee comes through another door carrying a plastic bin of glasses and nearly runs into me. “Sorry.”

“No problem.”

I step aside.

He disappears toward the dining room.

A red EXIT sign glows at the end of the hallway past the restrooms.

I push open the women's restroom door. It’s empty.

I choose a stall.

By the time I come back out, my phone buzzes inside my purse.

I wash my hands, dry them, then pull it out.

Violet: FINALLY PARKED.

I don’t bother responding. I’ll see her in a minute.

I put the phone away, then reach for the door. It opens before I touch it.

I step back automatically. “Sorry.”

The person coming in doesn't answer.

Something in my stomach tightens.

I lock eyes with him.

Wait. I recognize him.

Mercer.

For half a second, neither of us moves.

Then everything happens at once.

I jerk backward.

His hand catches my arm.

I twist hard, ripping it free. “Get the fuck⁠—”

He lunges and spins me around.

My purse slips from my shoulder and hits the floor.

I drive my elbow toward him. It connects with something.

He grunts.