Chapter 20

Quentin's heart started racing, and he felt lightheaded. His phone slipped from his hand and fell to the floor.

Xyla, who had been sleeping, was suddenly jolted awake. She asked, "What's going on?"

Quentin picked up his phone and said, "Elle's in trouble!" Then, he rushed out of the ward and left Xyla frozen.

It was then that her phone rang. Gloria handed the phone to Xyla to answer. After a few moments, Xyla yelled into the phone, "Useless!"

Meanwhile, Quentin was speeding through the streets in his car and running several red lights. All he could think about was that he might have caused Noelle's death.

Police tape surrounded the crime scene on South Bay Street, and a swarm of police cars arrived. Quentin quickly parked his Maybach and hurried toward the scene. He nearly stumbled over the uneven street, but a police officer caught him.

"Sir, I'm sorry for your loss," said the officer.

Quentin shoved the officer's hand away from him. He couldn't believe that Noelle was gone.

H