Draven.
The air was crisp, the sky a deep grey with hints of lavender as the first light of dawn crept slowly over the estate.
It was just past five a.m. The courtyard was quiet, save for the low idle of five black jeeps lined up in precision, their headlights glowing faintly in the morning fog.
I stood steps away from the third jeep, the morning wind tugging slightly at my coat. Meredith was in front of me, her hand cradled gently between mine. She wore a thick robe, her silver hair pulled back loosely, and the look in her eyes made me hesitate.
She reached out, cupping my arm. "Call me as soon as you get home."
I nodded. "I will."
"I mean it, Draven."
"I promise."
I squeezed her arm gently and leaned closer, placing a kiss against her temple. Her scent lingered on me even after I pulled away.
Behind me, Dennis approached. "Safe travels, Brother," he said, nodding once. "And trust me to take care of your house. Nothing will go wrong on my watch."
