Elijah’s POVI leaned back in my chair, glancing at the neatly organized business reports in front of me. Normally, mornings like these were a steady grind, but today, I couldn’t keep the small smile off my face.Last night replayed in my mind, unbidden but welcome. The warmth of Sophia’s touch, her whispered promises, and the way we’d melted into each other as though the rest of the world didn’t exist. It had been intense, much more than the usual. Definitely one of the most memorable. The sound of my phone shattered the moment, pulling me back to the present. I picked it up, spotting Joe’s name flashing on the screen. His timing was rarely coincidental.“Joe,” I answered, straightening in my chair. “What’s the update?”“Got something big,” he said, his voice urgent, but low enough that I knew he was being cautious. “I managed to connect with Emily and Chris. Used a secure satellite line. They’re safe for now.”Relief washed over me. “That’s good to hear. And Marc and Luc? What are
Elijah’s POVI ended the call with Emily and let out a long, slow breath, leaning back in the chair. Her pain lingered in my chest like an echo. The weight of everything—the mob, Jared, keeping everyone safe—pressed heavily on my shoulders.“You okay?” Joe asked, his sharp eyes scanning me from across the room.I nodded, though the tightness in my chest hadn’t eased. “Yeah. Just a lot to think about.”I glanced at him then, leaning against his desk, his ever-present sharpness softened just a fraction. “Emily’s strong,” I said, more to myself than to him. “But even she has her breaking point.”Joe nodded, picking at the corner of a file on his desk. “She’s got Chris, though. Guy’s solid, if a little rough around the edges. They’ll hold out.”“Chris isn’t used to this kind of life, but he’s never loved someone like how he loves Emily. It’s really admirable that he’s doing all this for her. She needs him by her side.”Joe rubbed the back of his neck, his face tight with thought. “The mob
Elijah’s POVThe metallic clang of the prison gates behind me sent a chill through the air, though the day was warm and bright. Joe walked beside me, his expression set in its usual mask of calm determination, but I could feel the tension radiating off him. I wasn’t exactly at ease myself—this wasn’t the kind of place anyone walked into lightly.“Charlotte Vega,” I said quietly, more to myself than Joe, as we followed a guard down the sterile corridors. “She’s been visiting both Julia and Henry frequently. That alone is suspicious.”After what we had discovered from Vito’s visitor logs, I’d decided to check into the ones for Henry and Julia. And that was how I’d come across Charlotte Vega. Joe nodded, keeping his voice low. “The guards I spoke to say she’s supposedly an investigative journalist. Claims she’s writing some big exposé on international mobs. Sounds plausible enough on the surface.”“But?”“But,” he said, giving me a sideways glance, “they also mentioned she’s always very
Elijah’s POVThe cafe was brimming with energy as I sat across from my wife, happily sharing a relaxed conversation with her over lunch. Potted plants hung from the ceiling, their vibrant greens adding a refreshing touch to the cozy interiors and putting me in a rather good mood despite my recent discoveries. Sophia animatedly described her latest design project, her hands moving in lively gestures. “It’s for a seaside mall,” she said, her eyes lighting up with excitement. “They want something modern but that still incorporates natural elements—wooden textures, open spaces, lots of natural light.”I smiled, admiring the passion in her voice. “Sounds like the perfect job for you. You’ve always had a knack for making things both elegant and practical. I know you’ll do an amazing job.”Her cheeks flushed slightly at the compliment, and she laughed softly. “Thank you. I’ve already started sketching out some ideas, but there’s so much to consider. I’m just hoping I can balance everything.
Sophia’s POV“Are you sure we’re at the right place?” Elijah asked, squinting as he scanned the brightly colored signage above the doors. His hand rested protectively on Jared’s small shoulder, while I carried Roxy’s favorite tote bag stuffed with snacks and toys.“Yes, this is it,” I said with a smile. “The indoor activity center Kayla recommended.”Just then, Reese tugged on my hand impatiently. “Mom, come on! Let’s go in already.”“Alright, alright,” I said, laughing as we stepped through the sliding doors. The sounds of laughter and squeals of children filled the air, mingling with the whir of air conditioning. The place was bustling, with climbing structures, ball pits, and vibrant murals on the walls depicting animals playing in forests and jungles.Before I could take it all in, a familiar voice called out, “Sophia! Over here!”I turned to see Victoria standing by a table near the play area, waving enthusiastically. She was dressed casually in jeans and a light cardigan, lookin
Elijah’s POVThe sound of laughter echoed from the play area. The kids were having a blast, and it was good to see Roxy getting along so well with Royce now. Jared and Reese were joining in here and there, with Reese effortlessly taking on the role of big sister to all of them. It brought a smile to my face—this was the kind of moment we lived for as parents.But the smile didn’t last. My thoughts kept circling back to Victoria. What exactly was her angle? Was I just being paranoid? I hated the thought of her playing some kind of game, especially when Sophia was trying to foster a friendship.Part of me wanted to just confront her, lay everything on the table. But then again, maybe keeping my distance was the better approach. If I could avoid giving her an opportunity to stir the pot, I wouldn’t risk her creating any more drama. I decided to walk out onto the balcony, hoping to enjoy the cool air and the serene view so as to clear my mind.The sound of approaching footsteps broke thr
Sophia’s POV“Why won’t he just tell me?” I muttered under my breath as I sank into the chair, crossing my arms over my chest. My gaze wandered to the kids, their laughter ringing out across the play area. At least they were having a good time.I leaned back, trying to piece together Elijah’s strange behavior. Was it something from before? Maybe he and Victoria had clashed at Morgana’s cafe—something to do with the legal mess. That would explain why he seemed so stiff around her. But if that was it, why not just tell me? We’d promised to be honest with each other, and yet here he was, shutting me out.I sighed, guilt creeping in despite my frustration. Elijah wasn’t acting like a man who was interested in someone else—at least, not romantically. He seemed... wary, almost like he was avoiding a problem he didn’t want to deal with. But what kind of problem?I shook my head, forcing my thoughts back to the present. The kids’ joy was infectious, and I didn’t want to ruin the day by obsess
Sophia’s POVThe car hummed quietly as we drove home, the evening shadows stretching long across the road. I stared out the window, watching the faint glow of passing streetlights. The kids were all asleep in the back seat, their soft breaths filling the silence. Elijah’s hands gripped the wheel, his focus on the road, but I could feel his eyes darting toward me now and then.I shifted slightly in my seat, crossing my arms. My mind was a whirlwind. I couldn’t stop replaying Kayla’s words over and over. Elijah and Victoria on the balcony. Arguing. Why hadn’t he told me? What had she said to him? And why did it feel like he was keeping me at arm’s length?The trust between us—something I’d always considered unshakable—now felt fragile, like a thread stretched too thin.“You’re really quiet,” Elijah said, breaking the stillness. His voice was calm, casual even, but I could hear the undercurrent of concern. “What’s on your mind?”I snapped out of my thoughts. “Hmm?”“You’ve been quiet,” h
Sophia’s POVI began to walk away. But then, something stopped me. If I refuse to communicate with him, it’s going to get worse. We’ve just made up after all those misunderstandings involving Lucas and Camille. And now, Victoria’s destroying us too. I can’t let that happen.I bit my lip, unsure of how to start. “I just... I don’t understand why you didn’t tell me about Victoria. About her being alone with you.”A crease formed on Elijah’s forehead, and he seemed to look conflicted. “Because it didn’t matter. I didn’t think it was worth bringing up and making you upset over something that meant nothing to me.”“But you were already being weird around her even before she approached you on that balcony,” I insisted. “Kayla saw the two of you looking as if you were arguing. What’s up with that? I thought you and I had agreed to be honest?”He took in a sharp breath and then went to take my hands in his. “I’m sorry, Sophia. I really am. I realize now that I should have explained about thi
Sophia’s POVThe car hummed quietly as we drove home, the evening shadows stretching long across the road. I stared out the window, watching the faint glow of passing streetlights. The kids were all asleep in the back seat, their soft breaths filling the silence. Elijah’s hands gripped the wheel, his focus on the road, but I could feel his eyes darting toward me now and then.I shifted slightly in my seat, crossing my arms. My mind was a whirlwind. I couldn’t stop replaying Kayla’s words over and over. Elijah and Victoria on the balcony. Arguing. Why hadn’t he told me? What had she said to him? And why did it feel like he was keeping me at arm’s length?The trust between us—something I’d always considered unshakable—now felt fragile, like a thread stretched too thin.“You’re really quiet,” Elijah said, breaking the stillness. His voice was calm, casual even, but I could hear the undercurrent of concern. “What’s on your mind?”I snapped out of my thoughts. “Hmm?”“You’ve been quiet,” h
Sophia’s POV“Why won’t he just tell me?” I muttered under my breath as I sank into the chair, crossing my arms over my chest. My gaze wandered to the kids, their laughter ringing out across the play area. At least they were having a good time.I leaned back, trying to piece together Elijah’s strange behavior. Was it something from before? Maybe he and Victoria had clashed at Morgana’s cafe—something to do with the legal mess. That would explain why he seemed so stiff around her. But if that was it, why not just tell me? We’d promised to be honest with each other, and yet here he was, shutting me out.I sighed, guilt creeping in despite my frustration. Elijah wasn’t acting like a man who was interested in someone else—at least, not romantically. He seemed... wary, almost like he was avoiding a problem he didn’t want to deal with. But what kind of problem?I shook my head, forcing my thoughts back to the present. The kids’ joy was infectious, and I didn’t want to ruin the day by obsess
Elijah’s POVThe sound of laughter echoed from the play area. The kids were having a blast, and it was good to see Roxy getting along so well with Royce now. Jared and Reese were joining in here and there, with Reese effortlessly taking on the role of big sister to all of them. It brought a smile to my face—this was the kind of moment we lived for as parents.But the smile didn’t last. My thoughts kept circling back to Victoria. What exactly was her angle? Was I just being paranoid? I hated the thought of her playing some kind of game, especially when Sophia was trying to foster a friendship.Part of me wanted to just confront her, lay everything on the table. But then again, maybe keeping my distance was the better approach. If I could avoid giving her an opportunity to stir the pot, I wouldn’t risk her creating any more drama. I decided to walk out onto the balcony, hoping to enjoy the cool air and the serene view so as to clear my mind.The sound of approaching footsteps broke thr
Sophia’s POV“Are you sure we’re at the right place?” Elijah asked, squinting as he scanned the brightly colored signage above the doors. His hand rested protectively on Jared’s small shoulder, while I carried Roxy’s favorite tote bag stuffed with snacks and toys.“Yes, this is it,” I said with a smile. “The indoor activity center Kayla recommended.”Just then, Reese tugged on my hand impatiently. “Mom, come on! Let’s go in already.”“Alright, alright,” I said, laughing as we stepped through the sliding doors. The sounds of laughter and squeals of children filled the air, mingling with the whir of air conditioning. The place was bustling, with climbing structures, ball pits, and vibrant murals on the walls depicting animals playing in forests and jungles.Before I could take it all in, a familiar voice called out, “Sophia! Over here!”I turned to see Victoria standing by a table near the play area, waving enthusiastically. She was dressed casually in jeans and a light cardigan, lookin
Elijah’s POVThe cafe was brimming with energy as I sat across from my wife, happily sharing a relaxed conversation with her over lunch. Potted plants hung from the ceiling, their vibrant greens adding a refreshing touch to the cozy interiors and putting me in a rather good mood despite my recent discoveries. Sophia animatedly described her latest design project, her hands moving in lively gestures. “It’s for a seaside mall,” she said, her eyes lighting up with excitement. “They want something modern but that still incorporates natural elements—wooden textures, open spaces, lots of natural light.”I smiled, admiring the passion in her voice. “Sounds like the perfect job for you. You’ve always had a knack for making things both elegant and practical. I know you’ll do an amazing job.”Her cheeks flushed slightly at the compliment, and she laughed softly. “Thank you. I’ve already started sketching out some ideas, but there’s so much to consider. I’m just hoping I can balance everything.
Elijah’s POVThe metallic clang of the prison gates behind me sent a chill through the air, though the day was warm and bright. Joe walked beside me, his expression set in its usual mask of calm determination, but I could feel the tension radiating off him. I wasn’t exactly at ease myself—this wasn’t the kind of place anyone walked into lightly.“Charlotte Vega,” I said quietly, more to myself than Joe, as we followed a guard down the sterile corridors. “She’s been visiting both Julia and Henry frequently. That alone is suspicious.”After what we had discovered from Vito’s visitor logs, I’d decided to check into the ones for Henry and Julia. And that was how I’d come across Charlotte Vega. Joe nodded, keeping his voice low. “The guards I spoke to say she’s supposedly an investigative journalist. Claims she’s writing some big exposé on international mobs. Sounds plausible enough on the surface.”“But?”“But,” he said, giving me a sideways glance, “they also mentioned she’s always very
Elijah’s POVI ended the call with Emily and let out a long, slow breath, leaning back in the chair. Her pain lingered in my chest like an echo. The weight of everything—the mob, Jared, keeping everyone safe—pressed heavily on my shoulders.“You okay?” Joe asked, his sharp eyes scanning me from across the room.I nodded, though the tightness in my chest hadn’t eased. “Yeah. Just a lot to think about.”I glanced at him then, leaning against his desk, his ever-present sharpness softened just a fraction. “Emily’s strong,” I said, more to myself than to him. “But even she has her breaking point.”Joe nodded, picking at the corner of a file on his desk. “She’s got Chris, though. Guy’s solid, if a little rough around the edges. They’ll hold out.”“Chris isn’t used to this kind of life, but he’s never loved someone like how he loves Emily. It’s really admirable that he’s doing all this for her. She needs him by her side.”Joe rubbed the back of his neck, his face tight with thought. “The mob
Elijah’s POVI leaned back in my chair, glancing at the neatly organized business reports in front of me. Normally, mornings like these were a steady grind, but today, I couldn’t keep the small smile off my face.Last night replayed in my mind, unbidden but welcome. The warmth of Sophia’s touch, her whispered promises, and the way we’d melted into each other as though the rest of the world didn’t exist. It had been intense, much more than the usual. Definitely one of the most memorable. The sound of my phone shattered the moment, pulling me back to the present. I picked it up, spotting Joe’s name flashing on the screen. His timing was rarely coincidental.“Joe,” I answered, straightening in my chair. “What’s the update?”“Got something big,” he said, his voice urgent, but low enough that I knew he was being cautious. “I managed to connect with Emily and Chris. Used a secure satellite line. They’re safe for now.”Relief washed over me. “That’s good to hear. And Marc and Luc? What are