Page 107 of Before the Night Falls

Scarborough rattled off a name, and Tyson felt everything go still around him.

No . . . it couldn’t be.

“Thanks for the update,” Tyson rushed as he ended the call.

Now, more than ever, he needed to talk to Olivia.

Praying he didn’t regret this, he hopped out of bed and threw his clothes on. Though it was almost 12:30, he had to know if his suspicions were correct. He’d ask for forgiveness if he was wrong.

He walked to Olivia’s room and gently tapped on the door. “Olivia? Are you awake?”

No answer. But she could be sleeping and not hear him.

He tried again with the same results.

Then he gently twisted the knob.

It was unlocked.

He cracked the door open, praying Olivia understood his reasoning for looking inside without her consent.

But it was just as he feared.

Her bed was empty.

Tyson’s heart leapt into his throat.

Where was she?

He threw on the lights and glanced around.

Her bag was gone.

But a piece of paper lay on the dresser—the burner phone he’d given her beside it.

With hesitation marring his steps, he walked toward it.

His name was on the top.

His gut clenched. “Please, Olivia, tell me you didn’t do what I think you did . . .”

He began reading.

Tyson,

I can’t let you lose everything for me. I know about the casino. You have to make sure the school is built.

I’m going somewhere safe. I’ll stay there until I’m able to show my face again. I can’t tell you where I’m going. Only one other person knows. It’s better this way.

I’m not sure if it’s possible that I already love you. My heart says I do. And love means putting the other person’s needs before your own.

I hope that one day you’ll understand. I’m doing this for you.

Love,

Olivia

His jaw tightened.