He rescued us. Liam, Jax, and Jane, we all rushed Ayla to the hospital. I was so focused on her, I didn't even see what was around me; my world was just her, fighting for her life.
She paused for a moment, "Then Michael tracked us down at the hospital. We had to leave Ayla there with protection and run. Into the forest. I split from the others... and the next day, after everything, without realizing it, I crashed right into you. That's why I didn't realize I was no longer in Turkey."
The words hung in the air, heavy and final. Aylin's chest heaved, tears soaking her shirt as exhaustion hit all at once. Zayden didn't hesitate; he pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly against his chest. His hand ran through her long, wavy, golden-brown hair, fingers tangling gently as he held her close, as if he could protect her from everything.
