251. New Home

The airplane door was sealed with a hiss behind him.

Landon stood there for a second, hand still on the latch, watching Daphne as she helped Ella settle into a seat. No wasted movement, no softness in her expression. But he saw it anyway. In the way she adjusted the seatbelt. The way she placed herself between the girl and the window, shielding her from the view outside. She didn’t even realize she was doing it.

He set his gear down and moved toward the cockpit to check in with the pilot but paused when Max gave him a small nod—all clear. They were ready for takeoff.

Landon turned back toward the cabin. Daphne was sitting quietly now, her head tilted back against the seat, eyes closed. Not asleep. Just…bracing.

Ella sat next to her, legs swinging a little, her small hand still curled into Daphne’s. Like she was afraid letting go would mean disappearing all over again.

Landon let out a slow breath and sank into the seat across from them.

He leaned forward, resting his forearms on his kn