The SUV pulled up to the curb of The Gilded Lily, its engine a low hum. Ethan stepped out, adjusting his cuffs, followed by Sarah, whose face was flushed and eyes bright with a lingering heat.
Falcon 20 moved to follow them, eyeing the valet parking attendant with suspicion, but Ethan raised a hand, making a slight gesture. He didn't need a shadow inside the restaurant; he wanted this night to be personal. Without a word, Falcon 20 nodded and retreated to the vehicle.
As he walked back, Falcon touched his earpiece. "All units, we are at The Gilded Lily. The Principal has entered with a companion. Deploy security protocols."
"Copy that, Falcon 20," several voices crackled in response. "All units on standby. Perimeter established."
POV: JASON & OLD FALCON
While Ethan prepared for a night of luxury, miles away in the dense, unmarked forests, three helicopters hovered like dragonflies over the dark canopy. Jason stared out the window at the terrain below, his brow furrowed.
