James Rodriguez

The connection clicked into place.

Wilson wasn't after resort property.

He wanted compounds that could manipulate emotional responses from an island that feeds on emotional trauma.

Emily's voice held grim irony.

Perfect research environment.

I stood needing movement.

I've arranged financial support while you recover enough to retain legal counsel if Wilson pursues his threats.

Thank you.

She studied me with analytical precision.

What will you do now?

I hadn't fully formed that answer until she asked.

Complete my recovery report.

Document everything factually.

then find somewhere quiet for a while, running away.

Per question held no judgment, only curiosity.

The opposite.

I moved to the window, watching normal life continue in the courtyard below.

For three years, I've been outrunning Clara's memory, taking the most remote contracts, the most dangerous extractions, keeping busy enough that grief couldn't catch me.

Emily nodded, understanding, without need for elaboration.

The island showed me what happens when we bury trauma instead of facing it.