Chapter 84 After The Smoke

• The helicopter blades slowed as the aircraft touched down on the rooftop. The rush of wind scattered Ariana’s hair across her face, and for a moment she stayed seated, frozen, her body refusing to move.
• Damien stepped out first, scanning the perimeter before offering his hand. His expression was unreadable, his jaw tight, but his eyes stayed on her with a silent demand. She placed her trembling hand in his, letting him help her down onto the rooftop.
• The night was quieter here, but Ariana could still hear the phantom echoes of gunfire in her head. Each breath felt shallow, like her lungs were too tight.