The bench seat opposite folded down into a wide flat surface—almost like a built-in daybed.
Soft gray suede lined the platform.
Plush pillows were arranged carefully. A folded cashmere throw lay at one end.
Someone had prepared this specifically for me.
My body reacted instinctively to the comfort.
I climbed in slowly and lowered myself onto the flat surface.
The moment my back touched the suede, my muscles relaxed slightly.
I turned onto my side and curled my knees toward my chest.
Making myself small.
Protecting my abdomen without thinking.
The leather underneath felt cool against my fevered skin.
It was grounding.
Ethan slid into the front passenger seat beside the driver.
He left the entire rear section to me.
Through the open partition separating the front and back, he glanced over his shoulder to check on me.
His eyes lingered.
Observing. Measuring. Ensuring.
“Elena,” Dario said from outside before closing the door.
He leaned slightly into the open space so I could see him clearly.
“Our car is right behind this one. We’re staying in formation.”
His gaze softened. “We’re not letting you out of sight.”
The words were protective.
I nodded once.
It took effort. But it was enough.
The door shut.
The Escalade pulled away smoothly from the tarmac.
The engine hummed quietly as the vehicle glided onto the access road leading away from the airfield.
Behind us, I saw through the tinted rear window that the second SUV followed closely.
Luca was at the wheel. Marco and Nico sat in the back.
They kept distance minimal.
