#Chapter 34: Ghosts of the Past

DEREK The hum of the engine was the only sound filling the car. Outside, the landscape rushed by—a blur of tall grass, dense trees, and late afternoon haze. I leaned back against the seat, my hands loose in my lap, my mind anything but calm. The suit I wore itched at my throat, but I didn’t adjust the collar. It was a small discomfort, easy to ignore compared to the thoughts turning over in my head. Joe sat next to me, unusually quiet for once. He’d already gone over the itinerary twice, confirmed our security escort, and double-checked our destination route. He knew better than to push conversation now. I wasn’t in the mood. I’d worn my best suit. It wasn’t for politics, and it damn sure wasn’t a formal negotiation. But still, I wore it—like armor. Old habits die hard. I stared out the window as the scenery rolled past, a restless weight in my chest. I wasn’t heading to a war council or a council chamber, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that what I found there might change