Chapter 15 - The Aftermath
The fallout from the gala was swift and brutal. Cassian’s loyalists swept the city, dismantling Silas’s remaining mercenaries before dawn. The police, heavily influenced by Cassian's deep pockets, reported the hotel shootout as a failed robbery by an organized gang.
Elara sat in the back of an armored SUV, wrapped in Cassian’s heavy suit jacket. Her adrenaline had finally crashed, leaving her utterly exhausted.
Cassian slid into the seat next to her, smelling of gunpowder and cold wind. He didn't say a word. He just reached out and took her hand, lacing his fingers through hers. The touch was grounding, a silent anchor in the storm.
"Is he dead?" Elara asked quietly.
"Yes," Cassian replied. "It's over."
Elara leaned her head back against the leather seat, closing her eyes. "I just want to see my sister."
"I'll take you to her," Cassian promised.
May you like
The drive to Queens was silent. When they arrived at the dingy apartment building, Cassian insisted on walking her up. Inside, the private nurse smiled warmly, packing up her chart. Lily was asleep, her breathing deep and even, a faint flush of healthy color in her cheeks.
Elara fell to her knees beside the bed, burying her face in the blankets, sobbing quietly with pure, unadulterated relief.
