Chapter 54

Nicholas tossed and turned in bed, his mind racing with thoughts of Sarah's father, Joseph. In his mind's eye, he saw a future where Joseph, defeated and humiliated, took his own life. The thought sent a chill down Nicholas's spine. He couldn't let that happen. He had to act. Nicholas threw off the covers and got out of bed. He paced back and forth in his room, trying to think of a way to prevent the tragedy from occurring. He knew he had to protect Joseph, no matter what it took.

As he walked, Nicholas's mind replayed the events of a few hours ago. Nicholas's mind was racing with thoughts of how to protect Joseph and Sarah from his father's wrath. He knew that James Hill would stop at nothing to get what he wanted, and Nicholas couldn't let that happen.

"I won't let you hurt them, Father," Nicholas whispered to himself, his eyes blazing with determination. "I'll protect them, no matter what it takes."

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Elizabeth walked into the garden, the cool n