The eye contact lingered for a second longer than it should have.
It wasn’t intense in an obvious way. There was no heat to it that would immediately draw attention.
A slight shiver moved through her, not dramatic or visible to anyone watching. She masked it well. Her expression stayed composed.
She broke the eye contact first.
Turning back to Zade, she offered a polite faint smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. "Bye," she said simply, the word light and controlled.
Zade returned the smile, casual, familiar. He didn’t notice the shift and what just happened.
Sylvie turned and began walking toward the entrance.
Behind them, Karl was already pulling out his phone, his steps purposeful as he made a call to the driver. His voice was low, professional. "Drive up to the entrance," he
