The atmosphere in the limousine was a complete 180 from the tense, paparazzi-filled arrival. The heavy velvet curtains of the gala were closed behind them, replaced by the soft glow of the car's interior and a sense of wild, reckless freedom.
Raya leaned back into the leather seats, her hand—now adorned with that shimmering promise—resting firmly in Killian’s. "So," she said, her voice finally regaining its playfulness. "Let's say goodbye to the vultures. What's the plan?"
Marcus and Chloe were sitting opposite them, and for the first time all night, Marcus wasn't looking at his phone or checking a schedule. He was looking at Chloe. He reached out, his fingers interlacing with hers, his expression surprisingly soft.
"Actually," Marcus said, clearing his throat, "I think Chloe is going t
