Parker's POV
The heavy iron gate at the entrance of the underground garage swung shut with a muted, metallic thud, sealing off the lower level from the bustling street traffic outside. The low hum of the armored SUV’s engine faded rapidly into the distance, leaving only the quiet drip of an overhead water pipe and the distant whir of the building's central ventilation system.
I leaned back against the smooth concrete pillar, letting out a long, slow breath I hadn't realized I was holding.
"That..."
I muttered after watching Elena leave.
I ran a hand through my hair, turning to face Asher as he stood under the dim amber glow of the overhead fluorescent lights.
"...was too close."
Asher adjusted the cuff of his black shirt.
His expression was stone, devoid of the adrenaline that usua
