British Exchange Agent

Chapter 32

A crimson flush spread across my cheeks. I chewed on my lip, tightening my ponytail as Cyrus's gaze penetrated mine.

"Right. Well." I blustered, swallowing nervously. "Good speaking to all of you. I will get in touch within twenty four hours. Be prepared."

The men watched me with curiosity as I finished my rushed command, their eyes following my every move. I gave them a firm nod before swiftly turning towards the door, striding out and hopping up the steps towards the room I had stayed in.

I quickly gathered the belongings I had with me - Cyrus's jacket and my guns - and made my way to the pilot's room. A sense of irritation fell over me as I walked into an empty room.

"Great. So now all the belongings I currently own are in Cyrus's house, I have no clue where the pilot is, and I need to get back to Arizona in an hour." I muttered under my breath, my voice tight and exasperated.

"Or I could show you the way and we could pick up your backpack from my house?"

I spun around at the sound of a low, Mexican-laced voice, coming face to face with Cyrus. He was leaning against the door, hands in pockets, as he watched me. His lips were tugged into a slight smile, his eyes sparkling. My heart raced as I swallowed, chewing on my lip. For one of the first times in my life, no words were springing to my lips.

"Uh...I...yeah. Yes. That would be very helpful. Thank you." I muttered the latter as a stressed after-thought, tightening my ponytail for the umpteenth time. Cyrus's smile grew wider, flashing white teeth.

"After you, beautiful." He smiled, moving from the doorway and gesturing towards the corridor. His deep voice made me shiver as I brushed past him, walking down the corridor.

His firm footsteps hounded my ears as he guided me through all the hallways, rooms and passages, before we emerged outside. I glanced behind me, my eyes catching on his. They were bright and staring straight at me.

"Where now?" I asked, before glancing back in front of me. The perimeter was completely enclosed with a forest, trees surrounding us at every corner. It was strange to see; green, luscious vegetation in such hot country.

A biting chill cut through the warm air as Cyrus stepped forward and slipped a hand around my waist, guiding me forward.

"This way." He murmured, his low voice a mere growl. I blinked, shivering slightly as I followed him into the forest area. The sun was blocked as we walked deeper, now immersed in a deep, dark realm.

After seventeen minutes I glanced at Cyrus, my eyes narrowing in confusion.

"Are you sure this is the way to go?"

My words were posed as a threat; as dark and mysterious as the forest. His eyes flit to me, letting out a deep chuckle.

"Come on."

I continued to walk, my senses on high alert. Was this a trap? Had they planned to kill me here? Cyrus seemed to sense the tense atmosphere, turning around to look me in the eyes seriously.

"The runway is literally a minutes walk this way. I promise."

I nodded convincingly, my hand twitching in anticipation. I was ready for a fight, if need be.

We continued through this trees until they began to grow sparse - opening up to tarmac. The harsh, black substance juxtaposed the forest floor uncomfortably, making me frown.

I looked up from our feet, my mouth parting in a silent gasp.

A generous runway was stretched all the way down the side of the forest, with a large jet slapped bang in the centre. I turned to Cyrus accusingly.