Page 21 of War Within
“Not possible.” I returned my phone to the pocket, lifting a finger to my chin, narrowing my gaze on her. “They'll be looking for you now, too.”
Startled, she jumped. “What?!” Sadness defeated her. She dug her phone from her blazer pocket, texting with her head hung low.
I ignored her, retrieving my own phone once again when it rang.
Yes?
Sir, we are prepared. Emergency departure is clear. We are ready for you.
We’ll be right there.
“I don't have clothes either.” Jane’s breath hitched.
“It will be handled when we land. We have to go.” Before we exited the room, I spun to face her. “Do exactly as I say, or you will die. That’s not a threat. It’s the unfortunate truth.”
Somberly, she followed me closely as we departed the estate, unsure when we would return. I texted my kids. My daughter was on vacation in Spain with a friend’s family. My son lived on his own, working many hours. Both replied immediately, stating they would arrange to meet us at our destination.
The ride to the airport was predominantly silent. Jane sat on her phone, quietly texting back and forth with someone.
“You can’t tell anyone about this.” I had forgotten to warn her.
She glanced up only for a second. “I’m not, don’t worry.”
I nodded once, turning my attention to the window as we entered the private gate leading to my hangar. The driver came to a stop near the plane. I stepped out on the tarmac. Jane got out shortly after. I smoothed my suit, watching security scramble to load the luggage with haste.
Leo sped over, escorting us to the jet. “We will notify Emir of your departure. Indigo and Trigger will be out in a few days if you need them.”
Coming to a stop at the steps, I paused. “Keep eyes on the kids’ arrival too.”
“Of course.”
I placed Jane in front of me, guiding her up the stairs. Though I avoided any contact with her backside, I had to admit I stared discreetly for a moment. As we stepped into the plane, the pilot smiled cheerfully, unaware of the urgency in our departure.
“Good afternoon, Mr. Rovati. Not traveling with security today?”
“Just us.” I waltzed passed him, winking at the flight attendant as I took my seat. “Let’s go.”
Jane settled in a seat across the aisle, buckling herself in. She appeared quite jumpy and nervous, but I could not blame her. I would have too if I were in her position. She was calmer than I would have expected, as I had just practically kidnapped her. I was astonished, but grateful she did not fight me.
I slipped my phone from my pocket, scrolling through texts and emails, seeing if I had missed anything. Nothing. It was common for Emilio or Luca to go silent for a few days when they were on business trips or missions for the family. They would be in touch soon enough.
The flight attendant approached with caution. “Mr. Rovati, do you need m—”
Without glancing up, I lifted my hand. That was enough for her to retreat to the back. The engines roared, the plane trembled as we sped down the runway, lifting off. I glanced over to see Jane, with her thumb nail in her mouth staring out the glass.
Without warning, she turned to me. “Why are we flying alone?”
“Most of my American staff stay behind to keep up the façade. We will not be alone after tomorrow though.”
Her face contorted to confusion. “Where exactly are we going?”
Lifting my hand to my chin, I stroked my jaw. “My home in Serbia.”
“So, you have connections there too? The Serbian account. You’re familiar.” She struggled visibly to piece the puzzle together.
Shooting her daggers, I gnawed the inside of my cheek for a moment. “You ask too many questions.”
“I’m just wondering.” She huffed in defeat facing the window once again. “How long is the flight?”
