He tried to rationalize it—she might simply be hardworking, private, and disciplined. Except none of those explained why she carried nothing but a coin purse and keys. No phone, no bag, no name on the staff lockers. She lived like someone expecting to leave quickly, permanently, and without a trace.
The turning point came when a tourist asked to photograph Margot and Lena together during a lively signing exchange. Lena reacted instantly—stepping aside so fast her tray rattled. “Sorry,” she murmured, face pale. “I don’t like being photographed.” Evan couldn’t help but notice her sudden and instinctive alarm.