Drakes's Pov
Thirty minutes later, the cool afternoon air is filled with the soft rustle of leaves and the faint hum of a few birds as Nicole, Grace, and I load the last of our belongings into the car. The pack grounds are quiet, save for the gathering of a few familiar faces who have come to see us off.
I secure the duffle bags in the trunk, my movements brisk and efficient, though my eyes occasionally flick toward Nicole. She is standing nearby with Grace, checking over our supplies one last time, her expression set with determination.
Aiden is the first to step forward, clapping me on the shoulder. "We’ll keep everything under control here," he says, his voice steady. "Focus on getting the answers we need."
I nod my head, my gaze serious. "Thanks, Aiden. Keep an eye on things, and l
