CHAPTER EIGHTY - THE SILENCE BEFORE THE STORM

  The next few hours passed in a blur of activity. Leon's efficiency, even in crisis, was impressive. By the time they reached the private airfield, the jet was fueled and ready for takeoff. As they settled into the plush leather seats, Nia couldn't help but marvel at the luxury of the aircraft, even as worry for Justin gnawed at her. Leon spent the first hour of the flight on the phone, coordinating with the hospital in Tokyo and arranging for a car to meet them upon arrival. When he finally set the phone down, he looked exhausted. Nia reached out, taking his hand. "How are you holding up?" Leon sighed, rubbing his eyes with his free hand. "I'm... I don't know. Worried. Frustrated that I can't do more from here. Guilty that I wasn't there." "Leon," Nia said softly, "this isn't your fault. You couldn't have known." He nodded, but the tension didn't leave his shoulders. "I know. It's just... Justin and I, we've had our differences. Especially lately. But he's my brother. The thoug