A Spy in Exile

“Awake?”

Ann’s phone vibrated in conjunction with the brief tone that accompanied the incoming WhatsApp message. The question came with a smiley face emoji.

“Barely. I’m wiped out. A long day.”

“Here, too. I’ve missed you.”

Ann smiled wearily to herself. A warm and pleasant sensation spread through her chest. Her stomach contracted in shame. She wanted to ask Helena how things were going with Assaf, but chose to tread lightly. “Maybe we’ll have time for a beer tomorrow,” she wrote.

“Hope so.”

“I’m falling asleep. Good night.”

“Good night, sweetie.”