Chapter 14

Sebastian’s POV

The following day, my men and I gathered in my office, a space filled with maps, files, and the lingering scent of strong coffee. We were deep in discussion, trying to piece together the whereabouts of that elusive Chase prick who had managed to slip through our fingers. The atmosphere was thick with frustration as we combed through every lead and tip we had, but so far, we were met with a frustrating silence.

 Each moment that passed felt like a wasted opportunity, and the pressure was mounting. Our minds raced with possibilities, but despite our best efforts, we were left with no clues to guide us in our search. Determined to crack this case, we leaned over the table, scrutinizing every detail, brainstorming strategies, and refusing to let our resolve waver.

Suddenly, I hear a soft knock on the door, pulling me from my thoughts. It’s Shelly. My heart races as I call her in, the anticipation of her presence stirring emotions I desperately try to keep at bay. She enters, her smile lighting up the dimly lit room like a beacon. 

Everyone ushers out as they see who is at the door waiting. 

“Hey, big brother,” she says, her voice sweet and melodic. “I brought you some coffee. You’ve been working so hard.” 

As she places the steaming cup on my desk, I can’t help but notice the way her fingers linger on the edge of the table, the delicate curve of her wrist drawing my gaze. I swallow hard, forcing myself to meet her eyes.

“Thanks, Shelly. You really didn’t have to,” I reply, my voice slightly strained. 

She shakes her head, a teasing smile playing on her lips. “Of course I did! You need to take care of yourself. You can’t just bury yourself in work all the time.” 

A part of me wants to laugh, to push aside the weight of my feelings and enjoy this moment. But another part of me—the darker, more possessive side—wonders how long I can keep this up. How long before I completely lose control?

“Are you okay?” she asks, her brow furrowing with concern. "You seem a bit.. distant today."

I force a smile, hoping to mask the turmoil churning inside me. “I’m fine, just a lot on my mind,” I reply, hoping she will drop it. 

But she doesn’t. Instead, she steps closer, her expression filled with genuine concern. “You know you can talk to me about anything, right? We’re in this together,” she says softly, her voice almost a whisper.

In that moment, I feel a pang of guilt. She has been through so much, and here I am, struggling with feelings that could jeopardize everything we’ve built as a family. I should be her rock, her support, not someone who adds to her burdens.

“I appreciate that, Shelly,” I say, trying to keep my tone light. “It’s just… you know how it is in this world. Sometimes it feels like there’s no escape from the chaos.” 

She nods, her eyes filled with understanding. “I get it. But you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here, and I want to help.”

Her words wash over me like a soothing balm, but they also stir something deep within. The need to protect her, to keep her safe from the dangers that lurk beyond the walls of our home, clashes with the desire that threatens to spill over. I know I can’t let her see the true weight of my feelings; it would only complicate things further.

“I’ll be okay,” I insist, grateful for her concern yet reluctant to let her in on the turmoil brewing inside me. “I just need to stay focused. That’s all.”

She studies me for a moment, her gaze piercing as if she can see right through my facade. “You know you’re not fooling anyone, right? I can tell when something’s bothering you.”