Mixed blood

Chapter 18: Softer than you let on

Morning light spilled over them, soft and golden, filtering through the trees and casting a warm glow on the two figures wrapped in each other's embrace.

Luana's eyes blinked open slowly, feeling an unfamiliar weight around her—a comforting warmth, steady and strong.

She realized William's arm was draped around her, their bodies close enough that she could feel his heartbeat thudding steadily beneath her fingertips.

Her breath caught as she looked up, finding his face mere inches from hers, lips almost close enough to touch.

As if sensing her gaze, William stirred, his eyes opening to meet hers. They lay there, neither daring to move, their eyes locked in an unspoken conversation. His gaze softened, and she could feel the heat rising in her cheeks.

Suddenly, both of them pulled away, scrambling to sit up, each quickly turning in opposite directions.

"Good morning," he murmured, clearing his throat.

"Morning," she replied.

William glanced at his watch, "Time to head back. The jet's about to land soon, and we need to pack up."

She groaned softly, stretching her body. "Then hurry up. I need breakfast before I get on a jet."

He chuckled, "Bossy first thing in the morning—impressive."

They returned to the cottage, and quickly packed up their things. Soon after, they made their way to a small, open-air cafe nearby, enjoying a quiet breakfast with fresh fruit, croissants, and hot coffee.

When they finished, two black SUVs pulled up. His relaxed expression changed immediately, hardening into a calm, authoritative demeanor.

His men stepped out, tall and clad in dark suits, nodding respectfully at him.

"Sir," the head guard greeted him. "We've secured the perimeter. One vehicle for security, one for transport."

"Good. Any word on road conditions?"

"Clear, sir. We'll have eyes on you the entire route."

"Let's keep it that way," William replied smoothly, then glanced at Luana with a faint grin that broke the tension. "Ready, your highness?"

Luana raised an eyebrow. "You seem different around these guys. Where's my easygoing mountain-climbing buddy?"

He smirked. "Sometimes I've gotta remind people who's in charge."

"Uh-huh." She grinned, stepping toward the car. "Good to know you don't boss me around like that."

He chuckled, opening the door for her. "You'd just ignore me anyway."

"Exactly." She slid into the seat, giving him a cheeky smile.

One of his men looked back, seemingly puzzled by their banter. Will shot him a knowing look, signaling to stay focused.

He settled beside her and gave one last nod to his men. "No unnecessary stops."

"Yes, sir," they replied in unison and took their positions in the lead vehicle.

Once they were on the road, the SUV behind them kept a steady distance, filled with his bodyguards keeping a careful watch on their surroundings.

Suddenly, a car swerved into their path, coming to a halt directly in front of them. The SUV jerked to a stop, and William's men instantly sprang to alertness, exchanging quick, tense looks.

The head guard whispered to his boss, "Sir, it looks like an ambush. Armed men are stepping out of the vehicle. It's an organized attack."

William nodded calmly, the sharpness in his gaze intensifying. He glanced at Luana, who was watching the scene unfold, her brow furrowed in confusion.