Page 244 of Money Reigns
“We’re not going to the bathroom This ismyplane.” He tilts my chin, eyes blazing. “Get on my lap, Olivia.Now.”
I should say no.
I should remind him that the flight attendant is probably just behind the curtain.
I should breathe.
But instead—I move.
I slide into his lap, my hands trembling, heart full. And the world fades around us, until it’s just him and me and everything we’ve survived to be here again.
***
The car glides away from the hangar, the sky dipped in honey gold as the sun begins its descent. I’m tucked beside War in the back seat, his hand resting on my thigh like it belongs there.
My phone buzzes.
Ella
Sorry I didn’t say bye. I wasn’t feeling well.
I glance at War before typing back.
Yeah. Logan said you were sick. I hope you’re okay.
Ella
I think I caught a cold. I’ll rest. Love you.
I stare at the screen too long. Something about her words are too neat. Too distant.
War brushes his knuckles along my jaw. “You okay?”
I sigh. “Yeah, I just…” I hesitate. “I feel like Ella’s hiding something.”
He leans in, presses a kiss to my temple. Warm. Steady.
“She’ll come around,” he murmurs. “You’ve been friends too long not to figure it out. Call her later.”
I nod, though the unease lingers, a quiet thrum beneath my ribs.
The car pulls up to the front of the building. War’s hand doesn’t leave me as we step out, the driver tipping his head before disappearing behind the wheel.
We ride the elevator up in silence, but it’s not uncomfortable. It’s the kind of quiet that feels full—shared, lived-in.
When the doors slide open, I step into the penthouse.
The familiar scent of cedar and citrus. The clean lines. The sweeping view.
I didn’t think this place would ever feel like home.
But standing here now—my suitcase in one hand, War’s warmth at my back, it does.
He takes my bag without asking, hauling both into the bedroom like they’re nothing. I trail behind him, heart tugging as I watch the quiet strength in his shoulders.
I’ve been gone for months.How did I survive it?
A whole month without this man, this place,this feeling.
