soulmate

Chapter 15: A Decision to Make

The safehouse provided a temporary respite from the chaos that had engulfed Ava's life. As she and Dylan settled into the small, nondescript apartment, the reality of their situation began to sink in.

They sat across from each other at the worn kitchen table, the dim light casting shadows on their faces. Ava couldn't help but feel a sense of unease, knowing that danger still lurked outside those walls.

"We can't stay here forever," Dylan said, breaking the silence that had settled between them. "We need a plan."

Ava nodded, her mind racing with possibilities. "I know... but where can we go? The mafia will be looking for us."

Dylan leaned forward, his expression serious. "Maybe we could stay at your nonna's place in Italy. It's the last place they would think to look."

The idea sent a surge of hope through Ava's veins, but it was quickly replaced by hesitation. "But I... I don't want to leave everything behind. I didn't ask to be dragged into this mess."

Dylan reached across the table, taking her hand in his. "I know, Ava. None of this is fair. But right now, our safety is what matters most."

Ava looked into his eyes, seeing the worry and determination reflected back at her. "How did you even know about my grandma's house in Italy?"

Dylan's eyes softened, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I remember you talking about her once. And when we were trying to think of a safe place to go, it just clicked."

Ava sighed, feeling torn between the desire for safety and the reluctance to leave everything she knew behind. "It's risky," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "But... it might be our best chance."

Dylan squeezed her hand gently, offering silent support. "We'll do it together. We'll leave tomorrow, before they have a chance to track us down."

A sense of relief washed over Ava, knowing that she wasn't alone in this. With Dylan by her side, she felt a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty.

As they made plans for their escape, Ava couldn't help but feel a sense of dread mingled with fear. Leaving everything behind was daunting, and the thought of starting anew in a foreign country was overwhelming.

The night passed in a blur of packing and preparation. Before they knew it, the first light of dawn was peeking through the curtains, signaling the time for their departure.

With their few belongings in tow, Ava and Dylan made their way to the airport, their hearts pounding with anticipation. As they boarded the plane bound for Italy, Ava couldn't help but steal a glance at Dylan beside her.

In his eyes, she saw determination, courage, and a promise of a future they would build together. With a silent nod, they settled into their seats, ready to face whatever lay ahead.

As the plane took off, carrying them away from their past, Ava couldn't help but feel a sense of reluctance. The world outside the window stretched out before them, a vast expanse of possibility and hope.

With Dylan by her side, Ava knew that they could conquer whatever challenges awaited them. Together, they would forge a new path, leaving behind the shadows of their past and embracing the light of a new beginning.