The night started like a day didn’t lead into it. I’m just in the middle of it, sweating like crazy in an apartment too small for the five of us. Me, Jet, Veloria, Felix and her. No. She isn’t here. It’s just the four of us, but still too cramped and hot. I keep opening the fridge door, hoping the cold air will do something other than run up an electric bill that I already can’t afford. Veloria’s doing her eyeliner, paint...

I was back to staring at my watch again. Twelve minutes had passed since the last time I checked. I looked down at my phone. The agency sent me a text earlier in the day, confirming all of the details. Then an hour ago, she called and told me she was on her way. That was the first time I’d heard her voice. She said she’d be here by 9. It was 8:37. I was still sweating, and I’d already showered twice. Once before I left ho...

“I should go,” Antoine said. “I didn’t know. I’m intruding.” “It’s fine, really,” Veronique assured him. “Parle-t-il français?” He was asking her if I spoke French. “Oui, un peu.” She told him I spoke a little. “Ah, ok.” It was obvious he had more to say, but didn’t want to say it in front of me. That led to an awkward silence. “Grey, maybe you could give us a few minutes?” “Sure.” “We’ll need some wine. There’s a dépanne...