Welcome to Hong Kong

Liam woke to gentle turbulence, the plane dipping slightly as it began its descent into Hong Kong. Sunlight streamed through the window, painting golden patterns across the cabin. He turned to find Isabella already awake, her phone in hand despite yesterday's talk about disconnecting.

"So much for no work," he murmured, voice still gravelly with sleep.

Isabella looked up, caught in the act. "Just the weather forecast," she said, quickly tucking the phone away. She leaned over and kissed his cheek, her perfume enveloping him. "Sleep well?"

"Better than expected." Liam stretched, his muscles protesting after hours in the jet. "Any word from Christina and Marcus?"

"Landed an hour ago. They're heading to the hotel to make sure everything's ready for us." Isabella's fingers drummed against her armrest, a nervous tic he rarely saw from her. "Marcus texted that Christina's been practicing her Cantonese with the taxi driver."