CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND TWENTY ONE – BACK TO THE ROOTS

"I need to get away for a few days," Kayla Storm said, packing a small suitcase. Her husband Lance looked up from his laptop, concern furrowing his brow. He set the laptop aside and crossed the room, engulfing Kayla in a tender embrace. "Is everything okay, my love?" Kayla relaxed into his arms, resting her head on his chest. "I'm alright. I just...after that whole ordeal with Eleanor, I need some time to decompress. Away from the city chaos." Lance pressed a kiss to her forehead. "If that's what you need. But you know I worry when you're out of my sight after all we've been through." "I know." Kayla lifted her head, meeting his gaze with reassuring eyes. "But this time, I'll be perfectly safe visiting my family in Harmony Creek. Some peace and quiet is just what I need to fully recover from Eleanor's vengeance." Cupping her face, Lance stroked her cheek tenderly. "If you're sure. Just promise you'll take precautions. And call me every night - I'll be lost without the sound of you