The sleek black car pulled up to the private terminal of the airport. Louis Grant stepped out first, his imposing figure instantly drawing the attention of the staff milling about. He rounded the car quickly, opening the door for Daisy, who stepped out with an air of grace, a soft smile on her face despite the storm of emotions swirling within her.
“Are you sure you’ve got everything?” Louis asked, his tone bordering on sharp as his hand rested on the small of her back. “Passports, security details, emergency contacts?”
Daisy chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “Yes, Louis. For the hundredth time, I’ve got everything. You’ve checked and double-checked my itinerary.”
He sighed, his hand tightening slightly. “I still don’t like this.”
“I know,” Daisy said gently, turning to face him fully. “But you promised you wouldn’t try to stop me again.”
Louis’s jaw tightened. He had promised, but now that the moment was here, it felt unbearable. He studied her, his gaze softening at the determination in her eyes.
“I just don’t trust this whole setup,” he admitted, his voice low. “And I don’t trust half the people you’re traveling with.”
Daisy placed her hands on his chest, her touch soothing. “You don’t have to trust them. Trust me.”
His lips pressed into a thin line. “I do trust you. I just-” He broke off, glancing toward the terminal. A group of other passengers was gathering near the check-in area, their lively chatter carrying on the breeze.
Daisy followed his gaze, her smile widening as she spotted familiar faces among the group. “Looks like I’m not the last one here,” she said lightly, trying to ease the tension.
Louis didn’t respond immediately, his eyes still fixed on her. “I’m going to miss you,” he said finally, his voice almost a whisper.
Daisy’s heart softened, and she reached up to cup his cheek. “It’s just a few weeks, Louis. And I’ll call you every chance I get.”
He leaned into her touch, his eyes searching hers. “That’s not enough,” he murmured. “But I know I can’t stop you.”
“No, you can’t,” she teased, a playful glint in her eyes. “But I’ll be back before you know it. And when I am, I’ll be moving in with you, remember?”
His lips twitched into a reluctant smile at the reminder. “I’m holding you to that.”
Before he could say more, Daisy stood on her tiptoes and pressed a soft kiss to his lips. It was brief but filled with reassurance, her way of reminding him that everything would be okay.
When they pulled apart, Louis exhaled deeply, his hands resting on her waist as if he couldn’t quite let her go. “Stay safe, Daisy,” he said firmly. “And don’t hesitate to call me if anything feels off.”
“I will,” she promised.
—
As they approached the terminal, the group of celebrities came into clearer view. Among them were four men and four other women, all chatting and laughing as they waited for the boarding call.
“Daisy!” one of the women called out, waving enthusiastically. It was Veronica Lynn, a renowned actress with a dazzling smile and a penchant for drama.
“Veronica,” Daisy greeted warmly as they embraced.
“Everyone, meet Daisy Croft,” Veronica said, gesturing to the others. “She’s the lead for the new show. And these fine gentlemen and ladies are your co-stars.”
The introductions were lively. There was Marcus Steele, a charming actor known for his brooding roles; Jasper Reed, a comedian with a quick wit; Adrian Hale, a rising star with a quiet intensity; and Ryan Brooks, a seasoned actor with a reputation for mentoring younger talent.
Among the women were Elena Voss, a former model turned actress; Clara Walsh, a cheerful singer-turned-reality-star; and Freya Collins, an enigmatic figure with piercing eyes that seemed to see through everyone.
As Daisy exchanged pleasantries with the group, she caught sight of a man standing a little apart from the crowd. Ezekiel Chen.
He was impeccably dressed, his presence commanding despite his quiet demeanor. His dark eyes locked onto Daisy’s, and she felt a strange mixture of unease and curiosity.
“Mr. Chen,” she greeted politely, stepping closer. “I didn’t realize you’d be here.”
Ezekiel’s lips curved into a small, enigmatic smile. “As the primary investor in this project, I thought it only fitting to see the cast off,” he said smoothly. His gaze flickered briefly to Louis, who stood a few steps behind Daisy, his expression unreadable.
“I hope everything is to your satisfaction,” Daisy said, trying to keep the conversation light.
“It is,” Ezekiel replied, his tone measured. “But I’ll feel even better knowing you’ll be safe.”
There was an edge to his words that Daisy couldn’t quite place, but before she could dwell on it, the boarding announcement came over the speakers.
—
As the group began to head toward the gate, Louis pulled Daisy aside for one last moment alone.
“Call me as soon as you land,” he said, his voice firm.
“I will,” Daisy assured him, squeezing his hand.
“And don’t trust anyone too quickly,” he added, his eyes flicking briefly to Ezekiel, who was speaking to one of the producers.
Daisy followed his gaze, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “You’re worrying too much.”
“I’ll worry as much as I want,” Louis said, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Daisy laughed softly, leaning in to kiss his cheek. “Take care of yourself, Louis. I’ll see you soon.”
With that, she turned and walked toward the gate, her heart heavy but determined.
Louis watched her until she disappeared from view, his fists clenching at his sides. As much as he wanted to trust the security measures in place, he couldn’t shake the feeling that something-or someone-was waiting to harm her.
And he wasn’t about to let that happen.