The quiet hum of the morning was shattered by the deep, low growl of a matte-black SUV pulling up outside Aira’s family home. Birds scattered from the trees; thin window curtains shifted in the neighborhood houses.
The front door creaked open just as Dominic stepped out onto the gravel driveway—sunglasses on, one hand casually tucked into his trouser pocket, the other carrying a sleek leather duffel. Behind him, two of his armed men unloaded another heavy suitcase in silence.
Aira’s father, wrapped in his morning prayer shawl, stood frozen on the front porch.
"You’re... here already?" the old man asked, his voice hesitant.
Dominic smiled casually, sliding his sunglasses down his nose. "Early bird gets the breakfast, doesn’t he?"
He extended a hand politely. "Morning, Appa."
The old m
