Chapter 55. She Is Gone

Author's POV

The city lights blurred past the window as Adeline sat in the passenger seat, lost in thought. The quiet hum of the car’s engine mixed with the distant echoes of the nightlife behind them.

Her fingers traced idle patterns on her lap as she stared out at the passing streets and her mind clouded with emotions she couldn’t quite untangle.

William, ever vigilant, was focused on the road. His grip on the steering wheel was firm, his posture straight, trained to be alert even in moments of silence. He wasn’t just a driver—he was one of Luciano’s best men, trusted with her safety.

The ride was smooth, almost peaceful, until— SCREECH!

A car came to a sudden halt right in front of them, forcing William to slam the brakes. The tires screeched against the asphalt and jerking both of them forward. Adeline gasped, her pulse spiking as she grabbed onto the dashboard for support.

“What the hell?” William muttered, already reaching for hi