CHAPTER 34 HIGH ALTITUDE, HIGH STAKES

The private jet terminal was a world unto itself, a sleek, polished oasis of luxury and privilege. Natural light flooded the room, reflecting off the polished marble floors and sleek furnishings. Ethan looked effortlessly casual in well-fitted jeans and a polo shirt, his youthful, handsome face glowing with excitement. He moved with the confidence of a man who knew exactly where he was going and how he would get there. Claire, on the other hand, exuded elegance and sophistication in a tailored black suit and crisp white shirt. Her demeanor was cool and poised, her expression a mask of practiced politeness. As they approached the jet, the pilot emerged from the cockpit, greeting Ethan with a deferential nod. “Good morning, sir. Are we ready to depart? “Yes, we are,” Ethan replied, his voice relaxed yet authoritative. “Claire, this is my pilot, Jake. Jake, this is my assistant, Claire.” The two exchanged nods of acknowledgment, and as Ethan stepped onto the plane, Claire followed cl