Chapter 27
Celestina sat on the edge of the sofa in her private study. A knock at the door broke her thoughts.
“Come in,” she called, her voice quieter than usual.
The door opened, and Dimitri stepped inside, his presence commanding as always. He was dressed in a crisp navy blazer and an open-collared white shirt, his dark eyes sharp with concern.
“I heard about what happened,” Dimitri said, taking a seat across from her. “The Hestrels, the bombing, everything. Celestina, this is serious.”
“I know,” she replied, her voice steady but tired. “My father’s doing everything he can to bring them to justice, but it’s not enough. Liora and her mother are still out there. And Kael…” Her voice faltered for a moment. “Kael is in a coma because he tried to protect me.”
Dimitri leaned forward, his gaze intense. “That’s exactly why you need to stay on the low for now. The Hestrels have connections—deep ones. You’re not safe here.”
Celestina frowned, her brow furrowing. “What are you suggesting?”
“I’m suggesting you leave for a while,” Dimitri said firmly. “Come to Abu Dhabi. My family’s estate is secure, and I can ensure your safety there. You’ll be out of reach while your father and his team handle things here.”
Celestina hesitated, her mind racing. “I can’t just leave,” she said. “My father—”
“Your father wants you safe,” Dimitri interrupted. “And he knows you staying here makes you a target. You saw what they’re capable of, Celestina. This isn’t just about you anymore. It’s about everyone who cares for you, everyone connected to you.”
His words hit her hard, but they rang true. She sighed, leaning back against the sofa. “You’re right,” she admitted softly. “But running away feels like giving them power.”
“It’s not running,” Dimitri said, his voice gentler now. “It’s regrouping. It’s staying alive so you can fight another day. You’re strong, Celestina, but even the strongest warriors know when to retreat.”
She looked at him, his sincerity cutting through her resistance. “Abu Dhabi,” she said slowly. “How long are you suggesting I stay?”
“Until it’s safe to return,” Dimitri said. “A few weeks, a month—however long it takes. You’ll have everything you need there, and I’ll be with you every step of the way.”
Celestina took a deep breath, her gaze steady. “Alright. I’ll go.”
Two days later, Celestina boarded a private jet bound for Abu Dhabi. Dimitri sat beside her, his demeanor calm and composed, though she could sense his vigilance.
The flight was smooth, the luxurious cabin quiet save for the soft hum of the engines. Celestina found herself staring out the window, the vast expanse of sky and clouds mirroring the uncertainty she felt.
Dimitri broke the silence. “You’re doing the right thing, you know.”
She turned to him, offering a faint smile. “I hope so. I feel like I’m abandoning my father when he needs me most.”
“You’re giving him peace of mind,” Dimitri said firmly. “He can focus on the situation here without worrying about you. And when the time comes, you’ll be ready to return and help him.”
His words brought her a small measure of comfort. “Thank you, Dimitri,” she said quietly. “For everything.”
He smiled, his expression warm. “Always.”
The estate in Abu Dhabi was breathtaking. Nestled on the outskirts of the city, it sprawled across acres of lush gardens and pristine architecture. The main villa was a masterpiece of modern and traditional design, its white walls gleaming under the golden sun.
Dimitri led Celestina through the grand entrance, the cool marble floors and high ceilings exuding an air of elegance and tranquility.
“Welcome to my home,” Dimitri said, his voice tinged with pride. “You’ll have your own wing, complete with a private terrace overlooking the gardens.”
Celestina took in the beauty of her surroundings, her tension easing slightly. “It’s stunning,” she admitted.
“It’s secure,” Dimitri said, his tone serious. “My family’s guards are some of the best in the world. No one will get near you here.”
She nodded, appreciating his reassurance. “I’ll try to settle in.”
