Entwined in the night

Melanie experiences a mixture of emotions: fear for Shirley, thanks for Caleb's support, and admiration at the breathtaking view as the chopper rises away from Orion, leaving the city lights behind.

As the chopper soars over the coast, Melanie's anxiousness resurfaces and Shirley’s immobility weighs heavily on Melanie’s thoughts. Caleb feels her tension and pours two glasses from the helicopter's mini-bar.

"Here, drink this. It'll relieve your worries." Melanie hesitates, typically denying the alcohol because she doesn't like what it tastes like, but tonight, her fear overwhelms her reservations, so she accepts the glass, adoring the amber nectar. The rich, creamy flavor astonishes her and Caleb smiles, encouraging her to drink more.

"It's my secret reserve, aged whiskey,” Caleb explains to Melanie and she takes another sip, feeling the warmth rise across her chest.

As the chopper experiences turbulence, she downs the rest of the glass. Caleb refiles her glass, concern written on