The rhythmic hum of the rotors gradually softened as the aircraft hovered over the illuminated landing pad before touching down smoothly.
Sometime during the flight, Dakota had finally succumbed to exhaustion.
Still clutching Takoda tightly against her chest, she had fallen asleep, her body finally surrendering after everything she had endured. Even in her sleep, her arms remained wrapped protectively around her daughter, refusing to loosen their hold.
Kade had tried more than once to gently take Takoda from her, but every attempt had been met with Dakota instinctively tightening her embrace, as though even unconsciousness could not convince her to let go.
Only when the helicopter settled onto the landing pad did she stir.
Her eyelids fluttered open, heavy with fatigue, and she looked around the cabin in confusion.
"...We've arrived?" she murmured hoarsely.
Kade studied her quietly.
