The warehouse's dim light cast elongated shadows as Dominic stood over Matteo's unconscious form. Elijah hurried to Adrian, whose wrists bore the angry red marks of tight bindings. Gently, Elijah shook his friend.
"Adrian, it's me," Elijah said softly.
Adrian's eyelids fluttered open, his gaze unfocused. "Elijah? What's happening? Where are we?"
Dominic approached, his presence commanding. "We need to move. Now."
With Dominic's help, Elijah lifted Adrian to his feet. As they made their way out, Adrian's confusion deepened.
"Elijah," Adrian murmured, "who is this guy? What's going on?"
Elijah hesitated, glancing at Dominic. The weight of unspoken truths pressed heavily on him.
Once outside, the cool night air hit them. Dominic's men stood alert by the black SUVs.
"Boss?" one inquired.
"Situation's handled," Dominic replied. "Let's move."
They settled Adrian into the backseat. As the vehicle pulled away, Adrian's gaze fixed on Elijah.
"Elijah, tell me the truth. What have you gotten yourself into?"
Elijah took a deep breath, knowing the moment had come to reveal the reality he'd kept hidden.
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