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If you want the truth, [bell] I can help.” Jordan stared at the screen. A spark, small but real. The lie had gone public. But the truth had just whispered back. Snow tapped softly against Jordan’s window. Tiny flexcks drifting down the dark glass like falling ashes. Inside his apartment, the world felt frozen.
Not from winter, but from the weight pressing on his chest. The suspension, the videos, the headlines twisting him into something he wasn’t. But the text message glowed on his phone screen like a lone candle in a blackout. I saw what she did. You’re not crazy. You’re not wrong. Claire’s been doing this for years.
The night was about to shift. Employee lot 4 was dim and windhipped, the kind of place where secrets felt at home. Jordan scanned the rows of cars, expecting a prank, a trap, or nothing at all. Instead, a small figure stepped out from behind a silver SUV, hugging a coat tightly around her, a young flight attendant, maybe mid-20s Latina, trembling but determined.
“Jordan Hayes,” she whispered. Jordan nodded. “I’m here. [clears throat] Who are you?” She looked around nervously before answering. “My name is Elena Ruiz. I I’m one of CLA’s junior attendants.” or was. After tonight, I’m not sure she’ll ever let me work with her again. Jordansoftened his voice.
Elena, why contact me? Her breath shook visibly. Because I’ve lived through exactly what she’s doing to you. Jordan frowned. Claire targeted you? Elena nodded hard. Her whole career is built on manipulating the system. She files complaints about anyone she wants off her crew, especially people she thinks don’t fit her idea of who should have authority.
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