Steve's smile instantly froze. He looked at me, thrown off. "Why are you asking about that?""I just want to visit," I said.He studied me for a moment, a mix of confusion and concern in his eyes.I didn't explain further or mention that Jace had been involved in Desmond's death. I was sure Steve had no idea—if he did, he would've cut Jace off a long time ago."Did something happen?" Steve asked, his voice tinged with worry.I didn't answer directly. "Just take me there."Seeing that I wasn't going to explain more, Steve sighed and nodded. He agreed to take me to Desmond's grave, though I could tell he was still wary.When we got to the cemetery, we saw Desmond's parents standing by his grave. Even from a distance, we could hear his mom's heart-wrenching sobs, mixed with angry curses.I couldn't make out who she was cursing, but I could guess—Tanya.It didn't feel right to approach them, so Steve and I hung back, waiting until they left.As they walked past us, Desmond's dad
It was Hayden.He was unlocking his door, holding a bag of vegetables in one hand. My sudden movement must've startled him, because he turned around, his eyes narrowing slightly.I just stood there, staring at him like I was having some kind of out-of-body experience. I didn't say a word—just watched him, completely zoned out.It wasn't until Hayden asked, "What's up?" that I snapped back to reality. I shook my head, still not fully awake."Are you sick?" he asked, setting the bag down and stepping closer.I couldn't get my mouth to work, so I just shook my head again, even though I wasn't sure what I was feeling.Then, out of nowhere, I felt something cool against my forehead—Hayden's hand. His voice sharpened with concern. "You're burning up."I was still in a daze, barely registering that he was talking about me.Hayden seemed to pick up on my confusion. Before I could process what was happening, he stepped inside my apartment and scooped me up into his arms. My already ligh
Since my parents passed away, I had never complained about the bitterness of medicine again. After all, there was no one left to give me sugar-free candies, and I hadn't tasted one since."It's really sweet," Hayden coaxed, lifting the candy to my lips again, almost teasingly.I finally opened my mouth. But the moment the candy touched my tongue, tears welled up in my eyes, spilling over before I could stop them."Why are you crying?" His hand was on my face, gently wiping the tears away.But the more he asked, the more I felt a tightness in my chest, and the harder it was to hold back the flood of emotions. My tears kept falling, faster than Hayden could wipe them.In the end, he took the cup from my hands and gave my hand a reassuring squeeze. "If you hate the medicine that much, we won't take it."He stepped away, and I buried my face in my hands.After crying for a bit, I felt lighter, like some of the weight on my chest had lifted. The thermometer under my arm beeped, pulli
When I recalled what I'd said earlier, my breath caught in my throat. I wanted to explain, maybe apologize, but Hayden, still kneeling beside the couch, stood up before I could say anything. "Dinner's ready. Come eat."As he pulled his hand away, I realized how tightly I'd been gripping him. In my dream, I thought I was holding onto my parents—but it had been Hayden all along. And I'd cursed him, thinking he was the one getting in the way.Awkwardly, I let go. His arm lifted, revealing deep red marks from where I'd squeezed too hard.Without a word, he turned and walked off. I slowly sat up, feeling sticky and uncomfortable. I'd definitely broken a sweat—probably a sign the fever had finally passed."Here, put this on. Don't catch another cold," Hayden said, coming back with a blanket.I reached out to grab it, but my grip was still weak, and I almost dropped it. He ended up draping it over me himself, then handed me a warm, damp cloth to wipe my hands.For a moment, I felt like
After I said that, I remembered what I'd wanted to ask him yesterday. "Those guys who came after you—did they give you any more trouble?"As I spoke, I glanced at his hands and face, instinctively checking for any bruises. Luckily, there weren't any."No," Hayden said, almost like he could read my mind. "And even if they did, they wouldn't stand a chance."So confident.I finished the last sip of my soup and asked, "Have you found out anything about your dad's accident? Like, who's behind it? Why are they coming after you?"Hayden looked at me. "They're scared I'll find out the truth about my dad's boss's death."He was being vague, like always, leaving me to dig for more. "Was his boss some big deal? Did his death mess with people's plans or something?""It's been over a decade. There's no financial benefit left. What they're worried about is the boss's kid holding a grudge."Something in his voice made my throat tighten. "The boss had a kid? Do they know you're investigating?
My mouth was faster than my brain—again. Ugh, such a problem.The second the words left my lips, I realized how inappropriate they sounded.I was scrambling to figure out how to backtrack when Hayden just said, "Alright."Wait, what? Did he just... agree?He didn't brush it off, didn't make some macho comment about not needing my help?Even if he didn't reject the idea of staying with me, I figured he'd at least say no to borrowing money. But this time, he didn't.He must really be struggling. The thought that he might actually need help for his sister tugged at my heart a little.That feeling passed fast, and I cleared my throat, trying to get back on track. "Has your sister seen any doctors? If she has medical records, send them to me. I know some people who could help.""Sure," he agreed.With nothing left to say, I stood up. "Thanks for today. I should get going."Hayden looked at me. "If you start feeling sick again, call me.""Will do," I replied with a smile, turning
Before dawn, I woke up again. After a quick shower, I noticed a text from Hayden reminding me to grab the breakfast he'd left outside my door.He never asked why I didn't eat the last one, but he still kept making it for me anyway.I didn't want to waste his effort this time, so I ate the breakfast and headed to work.When I got there, the place was still empty since I was early. I sketched out my plan for the day, looked over everyone's recent work, and realized I still had some time to kill before the day officially started.I pulled out my phone and started scrolling through social media. I mean, yeah, it's a total time-suck, but I don't have many friends these days. At least this way, I can keep up with their lives, even if we don't really talk anymore. It was kind of nice to see how they were doing.Steve posted about some billiards tournament he entered. Lena, the superstar OB-GYN, posted about delivering another baby—she tracks every single one she helps bring into the worl
As soon as I sent the message, Steve called me back almost immediately."What's up? Someone trying to take advantage of you?" he asked bluntly.I laughed. "I wish! I haven't even met the guy. How's that supposed to work?""You haven't met him? So you're asking me to dig him up just 'cause you're curious?" Steve sounded surprised. "Keira, you think I've got that much free time?"He'd literally just posted about entering some billiards tournament, so I knew he was busy.Realizing I might've jumped the gun, I quickly said, "If you're swamped, forget it. I'm just curious. It's no big deal.""Come on, are you trying to guilt-trip me?" Steve joked, pretending to be offended.I chuckled. "Nah, seriously, just curiosity. If you have time, cool. If not, don't stress.""For you, I've always got time," he said, reassuring me. "I'll look into it."But he didn't hang up right away. I could tell there was something else on his mind—probably about Jace's post.I stayed quiet. After a long p
Mrs. Lane finally pieced together all the questions Lena had asked her and understood everything. Gabriel furrowed his brow and looked at Lena. "Is this really what you think?" Lena stayed silent. She did have those suspicions, but seeing how her mother had reacted so strongly, she began to wonder if she had been overthinking it. Aaron, who had already figured out the situation, looked at Lena and spoke up. "She must have misunderstood something." And he knew it was his fault. "She’s just an ungrateful brat! She doesn’t appreciate the kindness she’s been given and can’t stand seeing me be good to someone else," Mrs. Lane fumed again. Gabriel wiped away her tears gently. "Alright, maybe she was just joking with you." "Ask her if she was joking! Look at the things she’s been asking me—let her tell you herself!" Mrs. Lane pointed an accusing finger at Lena. "Big Sis," Aaron called out softly, "I’ll take Lil' Lena out for some fresh air." Without waiting for a reply, he r
"You’ll find out soon enough," Aaron’s answer echoed in Lena’s ears, leaving her restless and unable to sleep. The next day, Mrs. Lane arrived with chicken soup for Aaron and a bag full of fresh produce. "These vegetables are from a village I visited. They’re all organic, no chemical fertilizers," she gushed proudly. Lena's gaze followed her mother’s every move, scrutinizing her intently. Wherever she went, Lena's eyes followed, making her incredibly uncomfortable. "What are you staring at me for? It’s creepy," Mrs. Lane said. "Mom, why are you so good to my uncle?" Lena finally asked. "He’s my brother. Isn’t it normal for me to care for him? You think everyone’s as heartless as you?" Mrs. Lane scolded her, throwing in an insult for good measure. Lena didn’t retaliate to the insult. Instead, she pressed further, "It’s normal, sure, but the way you care for him doesn’t feel like how you’d treat a brother. It feels more like..." She paused before continuing, "Like how you’d
Keira chuckled softly. "Well, a DNA test isn’t a bad idea. At least then you won’t have to worry about being related to Mr. Ace if you two get together." Lena's eyebrows shot up instantly. "What nonsense are you spouting? Do you want me to hit you?" "Go ahead. If you break anything, you’ll have to compensate me," Keira said smugly, knowing full well she had a trump card—her precious little one growing inside her. Their playful banter caught the attention of the people in the room. They exchanged amused glances. "The things girls find joy in are beyond us," one of them said with a smile. "Let’s hope they stay happy forever," Aaron added, just as his phone began to ring. Glancing at the caller ID, he nodded at Hayden. "I’ll take this call." Aaron walked toward his study. Hayden also pulled out his phone, while Lena and Keira moved to the sofa. Keira recounted Lena’s gossip to him. "Hayden, do you think I could be the person the Mitchell family owes a debt to?" "It’s not
"I don't know them!" Lena shook her head. Was she joking? Keira pinched her lightly and looped her arm through hers as they continued walking inside. Lena began, "I heard some gossip from my colleagues, something about the Mitchell family of Windy City." "Let’s hear it," Keira said, strolling leisurely alongside her. Meanwhile, Hayden had already marched ahead, carrying the luggage into the hall. He was always efficient and precise, a trait ingrained in his very being from his military days. It showed in his every move, even in his stride. "A while back, the only legitimate heir of the Mitchell family in Windy City had an accident. Apparently, he fell from something high, hit his head, and ended up as a vegetable," she said. Keira had already heard Hayden mention this earlier. "That’s it?" she pouted dismissively. Lena huffed. "There’s more." "The Mitchell family has spared no expense trying to treat him. They’ve consulted every expert in the country, flown in wave afte
Hayden took out his phone and made a call. “There’s a car tailing me and my wife. Find out their identity, but make sure they don’t realize we’re onto them,” he instructed. “Why don’t you want them to know we’ve noticed?” Keira asked, puzzled. “Don’t startle the snake. If they really have ulterior motives, taking care of this group might just bring another wave,” Hayden explained. His reasoning made sense, and Keira nodded in understanding. They picked up Lena’s suitcase and were on their way to deliver it when the car behind them got rear-ended. They stopped to check, and Hayden received a message—a series of photos and some information. “Windy City… the Mitchell family?” Hayden muttered under his breath. Keira leaned over to look at the photos. One showed the driver partially visible, cautiously keeping the car windows barely open. The backseat passenger was only captured in silhouette. But Hayden’s people were well-prepared and used high-definition cameras, managing to cap
Ever since the matter with the Drago family and Wayne was resolved, and Hayden returned safely, Keira thought all the danger was behind them. But now, with Hayden’s sudden remark, unease crept back into her. It wasn’t fear; it was something else. Now that she had a baby on the way, she just wanted to get through each day peacefully, ensuring her child could come into this world happy and safe. Through the rearview mirror, she saw the car tailing them. It was a large SUV—imposing and sturdy. "If you were to collide with them head-on now, what are our chances of winning?" she asked Hayden. He let out a soft chuckle. "What do you think?" To make getting in and out of the car more convenient and comfortable for Keira, Hayden had chosen to drive a corporate vehicle. In terms of size, the car behind them was far larger than theirs. "Even if we could win a collision, we won’t do it," Hayden said, taking her hand in his. "Don’t worry. Once we reach the next stop, I’ll let you out
Keira hung up the phone, chuckling to herself. When Hayden returned, he found her smiling. “What’s got you in such a good mood?” he asked, glancing at the TV, which was off, and then at her phone, which she wasn’t using either. Keira reached for the durian he had bought her. Lately, she’d been craving it like an addict. No idea why—it was as if she couldn’t get enough of it. “I’ll wash my hands and cut it for you,” Hayden said, stopping her from handling it. “You just need to eat.” He pulled her along to wash her hands as well. Hayden stood behind her at the sink, his arms wrapping around her protectively. As he washed her hands, she recounted the story about Lena. “The car accident on the news is probably the same one,” he commented. “But it only mentioned the White family.” “Aaron has always kept a low profile,” Keira replied, but as she turned her head, her words were cut off. Her lips brushed against his. It was completely unintentional, yet somehow, it was a perfect
Going back to her family’s home was out of the question. Lena would rather move her luggage back to Aaron’s place and stay with him. Though Mrs. Lane could pressure her, she couldn’t do the same with Aaron. In the end, she had no choice but to relent, though her frustration was evident. Grinding her teeth, she snapped, “You’re both so stubborn!” As she left the room, Mrs. Lane gave Lena a pointed glare, clearly displeased that she hadn’t sided with her or tried to convince Aaron otherwise. “Lena,” Mrs. Lane said sternly, “from today until your little uncle fully recovers, you’re responsible for taking care of him. This includes changing his bandages, accompanying him to check-ups, and handling all of his daily needs—everything from meals to mobility.” Mrs. Lane’s commanding tone reminded Lena of why she’d often likened her mother to a tyrant. At least to her, Mrs. Lane had always been domineering and overbearing. Lena had clashed with her mother many times over the years, par
"How’s your injury? Are you alright?" Lena asked James. “I’m fine… well, nothing serious,” James said, rubbing his head. He hadn’t thought much of it initially, but now, with the bandages wrapped around his head, he suddenly felt his injury was far worse. Even his head started to feel a bit dizzy. “Make sure to rest. I’m going to see my little uncle. Which room is he in?” Lena asked. “He’s over there. I’ll take you,” James offered enthusiastically. “No need. You should rest,” Lena said, sparing him the trouble. Just then, James’s phone rang. Holding his head, he answered and walked ahead, leaving Lena to her thoughts. Watching him walk away, she felt a heavy weight in her chest. If James, sitting in the backseat, ended up like this, Aaron, who had been driving, must be in much worse shape. With a deep breath, she made her way to Aaron’s hospital room. She had just taken a few steps when the treatment room door opened behind her, and two nurses walked out chatting. “It’s s