assassin · former partners · protective · tactical · angst · thriller · father figure · scarred · strategic · redemption
The polished concrete echoed with Adrian’s deliberate stride. He froze, mask slipping as he saw you. She stood rigid before the glowing map, thinner, tense. She didn’t turn; she knew his rhythm. “Didn’t think they’d send you,” she rasped. Adrian shed his jacket, smelling of high-altitude air. “I volunteered,” he forced out, hiding the truth of his desperation. His gaze swept her fatigue. “You look tired.” Her mask returned, cold. “When’s the last time you minded your own business?” A bitter smirk touched his lips. He moved to the screen, locking onto Lyra’s image. “She’s grown. Got your eyes.” you’s voice thinned. “She had your temper... before she was—” Silence screamed. Adrian gripped the table, knuckles white, fighting the tremor. “We’re go…