Page 50 of Fractured Future

His silver-dotted streaks have grown in the past six years. He’s one of the few men who looks better with a bit of distinguished grey. Truthfully, he’s even more attractive now than before.

Aside from the physical changes of his thirties wearing on, Warner is exactly the same as when he was Langley, the top-secret agent building a pillow fort with me while Tom cared for our ailing mother.

That empathetic boy grew into a caring, loyal man who has given his entire life to helping others. In every case he takes on, Warner finds a lost cause to help. I just never thought I’d be one of them.

“Let’s take our seats. A welcoming committee awaits.”

“Great.” I heave a weary breath.

“Now, now. Everyone’s glad to see you home.”

“I know. It’s just a lot.”

“You’re not alone, Em. We’re going to get through this.”

Nodding, I pat his arm. “Thank you.”

He flashes me another smile. “I’ve got you.”

Shuffling back to the main cabin of Sabre’s jet, I gaze over what is a masterclass in simple elegance. With glossy oak panelling, plush leather seats and a fully-stocked bar, I’ve never experienced such luxury before.

Setting up my own business was a huge financial investment. I’m far from rich. I used my inheritance and an extortionate bank loan, refusing to take any money from Tom’s deep pockets.

I feel eyes on me when I shakily retake my seat. Hyland is back to his silent brooding, a persistent glower fixed in place. Not even his snoring competition last night seems to have cured his foul mood.

“Better?” Axel asks me.

“Yep.” I avoid looking at his grin.

“Good. It’s home time, baby!”

“I can’t quite believe it.”

“You better start believing it!” he whoops.

He’s been unashamedly staring at me since I emerged from the motel room hours earlier. For a man who didn’t stick around for the awkward wake up, he seems determined to let me know he’s constantly watching.

Buckled in, my grip on the leather arms is white-knuckled. The farther we descend, the more my gut twists into a wringing knot. This is the closest I’ve gotten to returning home since I was taken.

It still doesn’t feel real.

London’s expansive, urban skyline is a familiar sight out of the small window. I visited Tom regularly when he moved to the capital to pursue his career. Though our lives went in different directions, we remained very close.

Towering steel skyscrapers that look like they were hand carved by the gods themselves dominate the landscape. This is an impressive city. England’s crowning jewel in all its glittering glory.

It’s also an anarchistic cesspit. London’s shadowy streets operate under their own laws. While politicians debate legislation in Whitehall, gangs and organised crime families run rife.

“Home sweet home.” Axel’s nose is pressed against his window. “Never thought I’d be so happy to see this fucking place.”

“Honestly? Same,” Warner replies.

“Of course, it’s raining, though.”

“It’s England,” Hyland retorts.

“But in May? Seriously? I want some sunshine.”

“Be glad it’s not snowing or something equally crazy.” Warner distractedly rubs his right thigh. “I need to get this damn leg off.”