Chapter 142 His Zone

• Ethan’s breath caught in his throat as the car came to a halt. Sicily. His hometown. He hadn’t stepped foot in these streets in years. Now, being here again felt like a burden settling into his chest, heavy and unyielding. The sun sat high in the sky, casting a golden glow that reflected off the cobbled streets. The air carried that familiar blend of salt and earth, tugging at long-forgotten corners of his memory.
• They stepped out of the car in silence. The modest hotel Brandon had booked wasn’t extravagant, but it was thoughtful—an intimate place for them to stay. Ethan appreciated the gesture, though he couldn’t help but glance at Brandon, noticing the weariness etched into his face. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes, usually bright and steady, seemed distant, lost in some thought he wasn’t sharing.
• “You sure you’re okay?” Ethan asked for what felt like the hundredth time, his voice quieter than usual.