Chapter 4

Hendrix paused for a moment, then suddenly understood. "Oh, maybe I mixed up the seniority. I'm talking about that student Alannah Robinson from your school.

"Her design draft today was a real eye-opener. She's the most promising young talent I've seen in years!"

Brogan's smile faltered for a moment. 'Alannah?'

That name stabbed right into his tranquil thoughts, unsettling him in ways he hadn't expected.

He remembered Ruby, her face streaked with tears, telling him how Alannah had left home in a fit of anger over money, juggling several jobs just to survive, always scared she'd get scammed by some…