Adrian Blackwood

Yelena’s head tilted back in frustration. She took a step as if to walk away, then spun sharply to face Adrian again. "Чёрт!"

This was turning out to be a completely different job than she’d anticipated. Moving a package was one thing, but guarding someone? That was a whole other headache.

She let out a huff and briskly shook Adrian’s hand. "Yelena. Okay, clearly there was a miscommunication," she said, and Adrian could probably sense that Yelena was shifting into a more serious mode. Fanny was now close at her side as her eyes darted around the room, assessing every possible threat. "I was told I was moving a package of black wood. Not a person. So, instead, I’m hauling your ass to the island."

Then, under her breath, she muttered, "Merry Christmas to me."

Nothing in the room seemed particularly dangerous. Just people trying to get through the airport or head home. She quickly calculated the safest route out to the parking lot, switched the leash to her other hand, and gave a quick whistle for Fanny to heel. She then grabbed Adrian’s arm and started leading him toward the exit.

"Take off the hat. It attracts attention," she instructed.