Los Angeles, Mia

The private jet, usually a symbol of luxury and comfort, felt more like a prison as I sat beside Patrick in silence. My thoughts swirled with the tormenting idea that it was all my fault. The deep-rooted sense of responsibility for what had happened to Sebastian gnawed at me, leaving me with a heavy heart and a mind clouded with guilt.

Patrick, ever perceptive, seemed to understand the turmoil within me. He had been there since the moment I received that life-altering call, and he knew the turmoil that had taken hold of my soul. Although I wanted to ask for more details about Sebastian’s condition, I...