~LAYLA~
"That's not the issue right now," I said, my voice shaking despite my attempt to sound steady. "The issue is where the fuck is he now?"
Tye's voice crackled through the speaker. "I've got people searching the area around that rest stop. If he's there, we'll find him."
"And if he's not?" I asked.
"Then we assume the worst and prepare accordingly." Tye's tone was matter-of-fact. "Watch your backs. Both of you."
The call ended, leaving us in heavy silence.
Axel set his phone down carefully. "Let's get some rest. You take the bed, I'll take the floor."
"Seriously? Axel, don't be ridiculous. We're adults. Just stay on your side."
He hesitated, clearly weighing his options, then nodded. "Alright."
He slipped under the covers fully clothed, not even bothering to remove his shirt. The mattress dipped under his weight, and I turned away, staring at the wall, my mind replaying Daniel's frantic call over and over.
