MO GRÁ | Derek Morgan

chapter twenty four

┌── •✧• ──┐
London
february 14, 2001

I had a surprise to plan and a plane to catch.

I dug through my closet, finding a few outfits, including a cute red dress for a Valentine's dinner. It wasn't planned yet but I knew it would happen. I got extra layering clothing for the chilly weather, and a pair of my favorite boots. As I tossed the clothes onto my bed, I could already envision Killian's face lighting up when he saw me. The thought brought a smile to my lips.

After a quick shower, I began packing the essentials—my toiletries, makeup, and, of course, the little gift I had chosen for him. Just as I was about to zip up my suitcase, a loud knock on my door interrupted my thoughts. "Leah! Are you home?" It was Mark. I sighed, trying to sound cheerful. "Yeah, I'm here!" I called back. When I opened the door, I found him standing there with arms crossed and an eyebrow raised, the familiar look of scrutiny etched on his face.

"What's going on?" he asked, concern lacing his voice. "You're packing. Where are you going?"

I took a deep breath, bracing myself for the conversation I knew was coming. "I'm going to visit Killian in London," I said, trying to keep my tone light.

Mark's expression shifted, worry deepening in his eyes. "Really? Are you sure about this?"

His words made my heart sink. "What do you mean? I thought you liked Killian."

"It's not that," he replied, running a hand through his hair. "It's just... I don't know, Leah. I have a weird feeling about him."

"Like what?" I challenged, crossing my arms defensively. "He's been nothing but good to me."

Mark stepped closer, his voice lowering. "I just think you should be careful. You're going to another country to see him. What if something goes wrong?"

"Nothing is going to go wrong," I insisted, frustration bubbling up. "I'm an adult, Mark. I can take care of myself."

"I know that, but I just..." he hesitated, searching for the right words. "I just don't want you to get hurt. You're my little sister, and I've seen how love can blind people."

I rolled my eyes, feeling my cheeks flush with anger. "This isn't about you or your experiences, Mark. I love Killian, and I'm going to see him. He's fine."

"Leah, I'm just trying to look out for you," he replied, frustration creeping into his voice. "He just rubs me the wrong way."

I shook my head, unwilling to let his doubts affect me. "You don't even know him like I do. You're judging him without giving him a chance."

Mark sighed heavily, his shoulders slumping. "I just want you to be happy. If you really think this trip is going to make you happy, then I won't stop you. But promise me—promise me you'll be careful."

His concern softened my anger, and I nodded. "I promise," I said softly. "But I need to do this. I need to see him."

Mark nodded slowly, though the worry in his eyes lingered. "Okay, just... call me when you need something. I'll be here if you need anything."

"Thanks, Mark," I said, forcing a smile. "I'll be fine, I swear." He gave me a quick hug, and I could feel his tension ease slightly, but I knew he still had his doubts. I could only hope that seeing Killian again would put his worries to rest. With that, Mark stepped back and closed the door behind him.

I finished packing the last few items and double-checked my passport and plane ticket. Everything was set. I grabbed my suitcase and headed out the door, excitement bubbling within me as I made my way to the airport. The drive felt like a blur, my thoughts swirling with anticipation and nervousness.