87. Leaving.

Adrian stood in the middle of their bedroom, meticulously folding clothes into a sleek black suitcase. The sound of zippers and the occasional rustle of fabric filled the air. Ethan leaned against the doorframe, his arms crossed but his expression soft, watching Adrian with a mixture of concern and affection.

"Make sure you're careful abroad," Ethan began, his deep voice tinged with a protective edge. "Don't talk to strangers unnecessarily, and if anyone acts suspicious, walk away. Also, call home every day. No excuses."

Adrian turned to him, a gentle smile on his face. "You sound like a worried dad sending his kid off to college."

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Maybe I am, but you're far too beautiful to not be careful. And unlike a worried dad, I have every reason to be overprotective."