CHAPTER FORTY – THE PLANE CRASH

The limousine ride to the airport was a stark contrast to the high-octane tension of the previous day's meeting. A comfortable silence settled between Kayla and Lance. Through the tinted windows, the Stockholm cityscape blurred into a watercolor painting of cobblestone streets and stoic buildings. Lance, finally breaking the quiet, turned towards Kayla. "You were amazing yesterday," he said, his voice sincere. "I don't know what I would have done without your… presence of mind." Kayla offered him a small smile. "It was a team effort, Lance. You handled the introductions with Johann beautifully." A flicker of vulnerability crossed Lance's face, a stark contrast to his usual confident demeanor. "I'm glad you were there," he repeated, his gaze lingering on her for a beat too long. The silence returned, thicker this time, tinged with unspoken emotions. Kayla fidgeted in her seat, the unspoken question burning on her tongue. Finally, she took a deep breath and spoke. "Lance," she beg