The Prison-Made Queen novel Chapter 401

“I brought you breakfast,” Leilani said, setting the bag down on the table. “I also came to tell you that something has come up. I’ll be leaving town for a few days.”

Callahan paused in his tracks, then walked over to sit opposite her. “Is it urgent? Do you need my help?”

He had only just returned from a business trip, and they had barely spent a day enjoying each other’s company. Callahan had planned to use this time to make it up to Leilani, yet here she was, about to leave on a trip of her own.

The situation involving Paulina Cheney was complicated, and Leilani didn't want to burden him with the details. “It’s something my mentor assigned to me a while back. It’s not a big deal,” she replied dismissively.

However, considering how significant Paulina was to Leilani, Callahan knew it wasn't trivial. He remained silent for a moment before asking, “Can I go with you?”

He asked without much hope. He knew Leilani’s personality well; she disliked involving others in her private affairs, even though their relationship had grown quite intimate.

As expected, Leilani shook her head after a brief pause. “No need. It’s a small matter, and I can handle it myself.”

Callahan looked at her, his gaze deep and searching. “Then you have to at least tell me where you’re going and when.”

Meeting his eyes, Leilani knew he was simply worried about her whereabouts. She hesitated before answering, “I’m going to Garrison City. My flight is soon.”

“Wait for me then,” Callahan said, standing up. “I’ll drive you to the airport.”

...

Outside the airport terminal, the black Maybach came to a smooth stop.

Warmed by his care, Leilani reached out and tugged lightly on his sleeve. “I know. I’ll be careful.”

Callahan hummed in acknowledgment, then suddenly pulled her into a tight embrace. Leilani froze, but before she could react, he released her and stepped back, his expression returning to normal. “It’s almost time for boarding. Go on.”

It was as if the hug had never happened. Leilani felt a warmth rise to her ears. She cleared her throat softly and turned toward the terminal. After a few steps, she looked back and waved at him. “Remember to eat real food while I'm gone. Don't just live on coffee.”

With that, she turned and walked into the terminal, her stride confident and brisk. Callahan stood there until her figure disappeared into the crowd.

...

As the plane roared into the sky and pierced the clouds, Leilani leaned against the window, watching the city shrink below. Her thoughts drifted back to a month ago—to the message sent by the mysterious contact on the dark web.