Nina
The tension in the air is so thick, it feels like we’re moving through molasses. The SUV stops just short of the perimeter of Elijah’s territory, and everyone’s quiet. Dominic’s hands grip the wheel tightly, his jaw clenched. Lucas is in the backseat, checking the weapons one more time, his movements too sharp. Rylan is silent, his gaze fixed out the window, as if willing himself into a different headspace.
Jaxon’s beside me, close enough that I can feel his warmth. He leans in slightly, his voice low. “You good?”
I nod, my throat dry. “Yeah.”
He doesn’t look convinced, but he doesn’t push. “Stick close to me,” he murmurs. “If something goes south—”
“It won’t.” I cut him off, sharper than I mean to. “We’ve got a plan.”
He stares at me for a second before nodding. “Alright. Let’s
