A few days had passed since the intensity of the last confrontation with Vivienne’s network. The house was quieter now, the tension that had hung in the air slowly dissipating. The men had worked tirelessly to secure the house and their operations, ensuring that Jade was safe. For the first time in weeks, it felt like they could all breathe again—at least a little.
Jade sat at the kitchen counter, sipping her morning coffee and absentmindedly scrolling through her phone. Luna was curled up in her lap, purring softly, her small body a constant source of comfort. Milan walked into the kitchen, his usual composed demeanor slightly softer than usual.
“You look like you need a break,” Milan said, leaning against the counter and crossing his arms.
Jade glanced up at him, her brows furrowing. “A break from what?”
“From all of this,” Milan replied, gesturing around the room. “The chaos, the threats, the constant vigilance. You’ve been through a lot, Jade. You deserve some time to relax.”
Jade tilted her head, studying him. “Are you… suggesting I leave?”
“For a short while,” Milan clarified. “Just to clear your head. Get away from the stress.”
Before Jade could respond, Thiago strolled in, his easy grin lighting up the room. “Are we talking about a vacation? Because I fully support this idea.”
Milan gave him a sidelong glance but didn’t disagree. “Yes. A short vacation. Somewhere safe.”
Enzo entered next, his expression as serious as ever, but he nodded in agreement. “It’s a good idea. You and Mia could take a few days away. Recharge.”
Jade blinked at them, her surprise evident. “You’re all okay with me leaving? I thought you didn’t want me out of your sight.”
“We don’t,” Milan said, his tone firm. “But this is different. We need you to take care of yourself. And Mia will be with you.”
“And,” Thiago added with a wink, “we’ll have eyes on you. Discreetly, of course.”
Jade sighed, setting her mug down. “So, it’s a vacation, but not really?”
“It’s the safest option,” Enzo said. “You’ll still have some freedom, but we’ll know you’re protected.”
Jade considered this for a moment before nodding slowly. “Alright. I could use a break. Where am I going?”
“That’s up to you,” Milan said with a small smile. “Pick a destination. We’ll handle the rest.”
Later that day, Jade called Mia to tell her the news. As expected, Mia was ecstatic.
“Wait, wait, wait,” Mia said, her voice practically buzzing through the phone. “You’re telling me we’re going on vacation? Together? Like, a real vacation?”
“Yes,” Jade replied, laughing softly at Mia’s enthusiasm. “Milan thinks I need to get away for a bit. And apparently, you’re my plus-one.”
“Jade, this is amazing!” Mia squealed. “Where are we going? Somewhere tropical? I need details!”
“I haven’t decided yet,” Jade admitted. “Any suggestions?”
Mia thought for a moment before replying. “How about a beach? Somewhere with clear water, warm sand, and absolutely no drama.”
“That sounds perfect,” Jade said, a smile spreading across her face. “Let’s do it.”