Adrian's POV
The estate had settled into something resembling calm after the lab takedowns. The guards rotated shifts with proper precision, the psychic walls had been reinforced, and surveillance was at an all-time high.
Because I am aware that the quiet after the storm is more of a façade, especially after this major takedown and win for us since we discovered 'The Veil'.
Outside, Mondrovia tried to breathe again, but protests, broadcasts, and outrage simmered beneath the surface.
Inside me, nothing was settled yet. I stood alone in my study, my jacket discarded, sleeves rolled to my elbows, staring at the morning light beyond the glass.
The door opened softly.
I didn't turn.
I didn't need to.
"Elena," I said.
She paused just inside the threshold. I could feel her before I heard her, just like gravity shifting, like my mind recognizing its anchor before my body did.
"We left the picnic early, why?" she said gently.
I exhaled and said, "I had work to finish".
