Leon and Annika woke up from their rejuvenating slumber on Leon's private jet to find themselves on the final descent into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. They took their respective seats without exchanging words, and upon fastening their seatbelts for landing, Leon instinctively took Annika's hand in his and gave it a squeeze. Annika turned her head to face him and smiled from ear to ear as they locked eyes with each other. It was fast becoming second nature for the two to maintain physical contact, and they basked in each other's presence.
“Mr. Von Doren, Ms. Silverton, please prepare for landing,” the captain announced politely over the intercom. About five minutes later, the jet touched down as smoothly as silk before coming to a complete stop.
“Wow, that was a smooth landing,” Annika commented as she unbuckled herself. “Whoever your pilot is, he definitely has skill. Our family pilot butchers his landings almost every time. It's like a damn roller coaster with him.” Leon and Toby both laughed at her remark.
Leon and Annika exited the plane, and Toby accompanied them to the car. As they settled into the backseat, Annika couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and nervousness. She was unsure of what lay ahead, but she was determined to make the most of this trip with Leon.
As they drove to the hotel, Annika and Leon continued to talk and laugh together. They were like two old friends, comfortable in each other's presence. Annika was amazed at how easy it was to be around Leon, and she found herself feeling more and more at ease in his presence.
When they arrived at the hotel, Leon checked them in and they went up to their room. Annika was surprised to see that the room was filled with all sorts of amenities and luxuries. There were champagne and strawberries waiting for them, and Leon had even arranged for a romantic dinner to be set up in the room.
As they got settled in, Leon turned to Annika and said, “You know, Doc, I have to say, I'm really glad we did this. I've been wanting to spend some quality time with you, and this trip has been exactly what I needed." Annika smiled, feeling happy and content. She knew that she had made the right decision in coming on this trip with Leon.
In that moment, Annika felt a sense of peace and happiness that she had never felt before. She knew that she had found something special in Leon, and she was determined to make the most of it.
