Chapter 4: Chapter 10-11-12
Chapter 10: A Jump into the Past
The sun was still rising when Gabriel arrived at the airfield outside of Los Angeles. It was his first day off in weeks, and he had decided to do something that would not only help him relax, but also connect him to an important part of his life: skydiving.
During his years in the military, high-altitude jumps had become second nature to him, but he rarely did them just for the fun of it.
Today would be different. He had scheduled a jump with a group of experienced skydivers.
"Gabriel, are you sure you want to jump alone? We could arrange for an instructor, just in case," the airfield attendant suggested as he reviewed the paperwork.
Gabriel just smiled. "Trust me, I've done it a few times. I'll be fine."
The attendant shrugged, accepting Gabriel's easy confidence.
As he adjusted his jumpsuit and checked his equipment, Gabriel was approached by one of the other participants, a man named Matt, who appeared to be a skydiving enthusiast.
— "You seem to know what you're doing," Matt said, pointing to the precision with which Gabriel adjusted the altimeter on his wrist.
— "Something like that," Gabriel replied, with a reserved smile.
— "First time here?"
— "Yeah, but I've jumped in more challenging places," Gabriel said, letting slip a bit of his experience.
— "Ah, so we have a veteran here," Matt joked. "Maybe you can teach us a few tricks."
Gabriel laughed softly, but remained focused, checking every detail of the equipment with the precision of a professional. For him, the jump was more than an adventure; it was a return to his roots, a moment to reconnect with the freedom that only the sky could offer.
Inside the small plane that would take them to the jump altitude, the energy was contagious. The skydivers exchanged stories and laughed, while Gabriel remained more reserved, watching the horizon through the window.
Matt, sitting next to him, couldn't resist his curiosity. — "So, Gabriel, what do you do for a living?"
— "I work in security," Gabriel replied, keeping his answer vague.
— "Oh, like event security?"
— "Something like that." Gabriel didn't see the need to go into detail about his life as an ABIN agent or his days protecting one of the most famous families in the world.
— "And you?" he asked, changing the focus of the conversation.
— "I work in technology, but skydiving is my hobby. I try to jump at least once a month," Matt said excitedly.
Gabriel just nodded, turning his attention to the instructor, who was starting to give the last instructions. When the plane reached an altitude of 13,000 feet, the door opened. The roar of the wind filled the cabin, and Gabriel felt the familiar adrenaline rush through his body.
The instructor called the group together, organizing them for the jump in sequence. Gabriel would be the last to jump.
"Ready for this?" Matt asked, before positioning himself at the door.
"Always," Gabriel replied with a small smile.
One by one, the skydivers disappeared into the vast blue. When it was Gabriel's turn, he calmly walked to the door, holding on tight as he looked out at the world below. It was a view he never tired of admiring: the ocean in the distance, the city like a miniature mosaic, and the endless sky above.
With a deep breath, he launched himself. The jump was like coming home. Gabriel felt the wind against his body, the world below slowly approaching, and a peace that only came at moments like that.
During the first few seconds, he concentrated on stabilizing his body, getting into a perfect freefall position. He looked around and saw the other skydivers floating in the air, but he maintained his trajectory.
The altimeter on his wrist flashed, alerting him that it was time to open the parachute. With a quick, precise movement, he pulled the lever.
The parachute opened perfectly, slowing his descent. Gabriel held the handles firmly, controlling the direction while enjoying the moment of tranquility. The sky was clear, the wind gentle, and for a few minutes, he was able to forget all worries and responsibilities.
When he touched the ground, Gabriel landed with impeccable precision, rolling to absorb the impact before standing up. The other skydivers were already on the ground, and Matt came running towards him.
— "Man, what a landing! You really know what you're doing!" Matt said, impressed.
Gabriel just smiled slightly. "Just practice."
— "No, seriously. You have a different way. I bet you have a lot of stories to tell."
— "Maybe someday," Gabriel replied, putting away his equipment.
After saying goodbye to the others, Gabriel drove home, feeling refreshed. Skydiving always gave him a new perspective, a reminder that even at high altitudes, it was possible to find peace and balance.
When he arrived at his apartment, he saw that his phone was full of notifications. Some were messages from the Kardashian family's security team, others from acquaintances curious about his routine. He ignored most of them, only responding to the most important ones before making himself a coffee.
The day was still young, but Gabriel already knew that this jump had been more than an adventure. It was an opportunity to remember who he was, where he came from, and why he did what he did.
In the sky, he found the freedom he had always sought — a brief moment where it was just him and infinity.
Chapter 11: The Reunion of Old Companions
Gabriel was in a low-key cafe in Venice Beach, taking advantage of his time off to relax and people-watch. He had always enjoyed the energy of the place, with street performers, tourists, and locals creating a vibrant but not overwhelming atmosphere. The cafe was small, with rustic tables and a constant aroma of fresh coffee and freshly baked croissants.
As he stirred his espresso, the sound of laughter in a corner of the cafe caught his attention. He looked up and saw a familiar figure. A tall man, with slightly graying blond hair, a neatly trimmed beard, and an easygoing smile. It was Tom Harris, a former CIA agent with whom Gabriel had worked on joint training years ago.
Tom recognized him instantly, his eyes lighting up with surprise and joy.
"Gabriel Silva? I can't believe it!" Tom said, quickly approaching.
Gabriel stood up, shaking Tom's hand firmly before pulling him into a friendly hug.
— "Tom Harris, the world really is small," Gabriel replied, with a rare genuine smile.
— "Too small! What are you doing here in Los Angeles? I thought you'd never leave Brazil."
— "Things change," Gabriel said, inviting Tom to sit with him. "And you? Still involved in the same... activities?"
Tom laughed, leaning back in his chair.
— "Not anymore. I hung up my badge two years ago. Now I do security consulting for corporations."
Gabriel nodded, understanding the transition well.
— "Consulting sounds like a good change. Less risk, more money."
— "And you? Why are you here? Don't tell me you retired too."
Gabriel hesitated for a moment.
— "Something like that. I work as a private security guard now. A change of pace."
Tom raised an eyebrow, curious, but didn't press.
— "Sounds like we have a lot to talk about. Shall we walk a little?"
The two left the café and began walking along the shore. The sun was shining high in the sky, and a light breeze made the walk pleasant. As they walked, memories of missions and joint training began to surface.
— "Do you remember that training at Fort Bragg?" Tom asked. "When the instructor swore that no one could get through that obstacle course in under two minutes?"
Gabriel laughed. "And you bet him that I could. I ended up leaving you with a free dinner."
— "Best bet I ever made," Tom said, laughing.
The tone of the conversation changed when Tom mentioned the harder days.
— "You know, sometimes I miss that adrenaline rush," Tom admitted. "But I also don't miss the sleepless nights and the tough decisions."
Gabriel nodded, looking out at the horizon.
— "Those things never leave us, but we learn to live with them."
— "What about you? Do you ever regret anything you did?"
Gabriel paused before answering.
— "I don't regret it, but there were times when I questioned it. Losing friends, dealing with the consequences... it all leaves its mark."
Tom put a hand on Gabriel's shoulder, a gesture of camaraderie.
— "And you're here now. That says a lot about your strength."
As they continued walking, Tom looked at Gabriel with a knowing expression.
— "So, private security? Who's the client? Any celebrities I know?"
Gabriel chuckled softly, neither confirming nor denying.
— "Let's just say the work is interesting and... challenging."
— "Oh, I see," Tom said, winking. "Keeping it low-key. I've always liked that about you."
The conversation turned to lighter topics, and the two stopped at a kiosk to buy coconut water. As they sipped, Tom commented on how times have changed.
— "Nowadays, everyone knows everything about everyone, thanks to social media. Have you ever been on it, Gabriel?"
— "Unfortunately, yes. Recently, some people have started taking discreet photos of me while I'm working. Nothing compromising, but still annoying."
Tom laughed.
— "Welcome to the modern world, my friend. Maybe you need a code name."
At the end of the walk, the two stopped on a bench to watch the sunset. The silence between them was comfortable, a testament to the trust built over the years.
— "You know, Gabriel," Tom began, "it's good to see you're okay. Not all of us make the transition this well."
— "Transition isn't easy for anyone, Tom. But finding something to focus on helps. Even if it's just protecting people."
— "It seems like you've found your way. I hope we keep running into each other, after all, it's a small world."
Gabriel nodded, smiling slightly.
— "It's always good to see an old friend."
As they said goodbye, they both knew that despite going their separate ways, the respect and camaraderie built through difficult times would remain forever.
Chapter 12: Elegance and Surveillance
The sound of camera flashes and the buzz of the crowd filled the air as Gabriel parked the black SUV in front of one of the biggest fashion events of the season, the Los Angeles Fashion Gala. The event, held at a luxurious hotel in the heart of Beverly Hills, brought together designers, celebrities and influencers from all over the world.
In the backseat, Kendall Jenner looked impeccable in a long black silk dress with sparkling details. Her hair was tied back in an elegant bun, and the minimalist jewelry she wore added a touch of sophistication. She fixed the last details on her cell phone while Gabriel scanned the perimeter with his eyes before exiting the vehicle.
— "Ready, Miss Jenner?" Gabriel asked, in a professional tone.
Kendall looked at him and smiled slightly.
— "I'm always ready, Gabriel. But I must admit, it's comforting to know you're here."
— "My priority is to ensure your safety. I'll open the door and escort you to the main entrance. The photographers will be focused on you, but stay close."
Kendall nodded, trusting Gabriel's calm and direct control.
Gabriel stepped out first, adjusting the discreet but functional suit jacket he wore. He walked to the back door of the SUV, opening it with precision.
Flashbulbs exploded immediately, and shouts of photographers calling Kendall's name filled the air.
— "Kendall! Here, Kendall!"
With the same confidence as always, Kendall stepped out of the vehicle and began walking down the red carpet, while Gabriel remained a few steps behind her. He kept his eyes on the crowd, watching for suspicious movements among the fans and press.
Gabriel's training had taught him to anticipate behavior before it became problems. He noticed a man trying to get too close to him, holding something small in his hand. With a discreet movement, Gabriel signaled to a security guard at the event, who quickly approached the individual.
Inside the room, the atmosphere was a combination of glamour and sophistication. The soft lighting highlighted the fashion pieces on display, and waiters circulated offering champagne in crystal glasses.
Kendall approached a group of fellow models, greeting everyone with the cordiality of someone who was accustomed to these social circles.
Gabriel kept a strategic distance, positioning himself at a point where he could observe both Kendall and the entrances and exits of the room. He knew that these events, despite their glitz, could be chaotic and, at times, dangerous for someone in Kendall's position.
As he scanned the room, he heard a familiar voice beside him.
— "Nothing's changed, huh, Gabriel? Always on the lookout."
It was Max, one of the security guards hired for the event, and someone Gabriel already knew from previous jobs.
— "Max," Gabriel said, shaking his hand. "Good to see you're still in the game."
— "Not as much as you. Working with the Jenner-Kardashian family now? It must be crazy."
— "It has its moments," Gabriel replied, keeping his tone professional.
As the event continued, Kendall approached Gabriel during a break.
— "How are we doing?" she asked, holding a glass of champagne.
— "Everything is under control," Gabriel replied. "Security here is well coordinated, but I'm still keeping an eye on it."
Kendall smiled, leaning in slightly.
— "You make it sound easy, but I know it's not."
— "It's all about training and anticipation," Gabriel said. "But of course, it helps to have a cooperative client."
She laughed, clearly at ease with him around.
— "Have you ever dealt with anything like this before? I mean, with all the craziness of cameras and fans?"
— "Different situations, but the essence is the same. Protection, attention to detail, and keeping things under control."
Kendall watched him for a moment, as if she wanted to ask him something else, but was interrupted by a group of designers who called her over for another photo shoot.
As the night wore on, Gabriel noticed a change in the crowd's behavior. A small group of fans had managed to enter the room, clearly trying to get close to the celebrities. He immediately alerted event security and positioned himself closer to Kendall, making sure any incidents were defused before he got to her.
One of the fans managed to get closer than allowed, trying to ask for a selfie. Gabriel stepped between him and Kendall, raising his hand firmly but not aggressively.
"Sir, this is not the appropriate place. Please return to the designated area."
The man hesitated, but backed away when he noticed Gabriel's seriousness. Kendall, who was watching the scene, seemed impressed by how quickly he handled the situation.
"You're really good at this," she commented after the fan was escorted out.
— "Just doing my job," Gabriel said, with a slight smile.
When the event ended, Kendall returned the SUV with Gabriel, exhausted but satisfied with the success of the evening. As he drove through the quiet streets of Los Angeles, she glanced at him in the rearview mirror.
— "Thank you for today, Gabriel. I know these events can be chaotic, but you make them so much easier."
— "That's what I'm here for," he replied.
After dropping her off at home, Gabriel returned to his apartment, feeling satisfied with another day of work well done. He knew that in the world of private security, each day brought new challenges, but also opportunities to prove himself.
And protecting Kendall at such an important event was just one more way to demonstrate his dedication.
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