Chapter Thirty-four: The Price of Integrity

Xavier’s Point of View

My hands shook as I listened to the dial tone on my phone. Lillianna was furious, although I knew she would be. But a furious Lillianna was a dangerous one. I was grateful I’d had the locks changed before I spoke to her, and I had an appointment scheduled for the security system I had to be updated. I couldn’t take any chances. If Rei were not the granddaughter of Kazimierz Brzezinski I would be worried for her safety.

I should have done this years ago, when Lillianna took things too far and crossed a line into darkness when dealing with Greg Ravenscroft that neither of us could ever come back from.

Years ago, she and I crossed paths during a tumultuous period when I associated with a toxic group that brought nothing but chaos. Call it teenage angst, whatever it was, I got lucky that Ethan Steele took an interest in me and deemed me worthy of saving. Despite the drama and trouble from our previous group, Lillianna continued to hang out with me. She eventually left them altogether and formed new friendships with Tom and Matt. We did stupid, harmless, fun stuff when we weren't riding or gaming. Mind you, after our trip to the hospital, our little group of friends stuck to clubbing, gaming, and riding.

Lillianna was a blast to be around - she had a great sense of humor and was always down for anything. However, there were times when she seemed consumed by her inner demons. Still, we became best friends and eventually crossed the line between friendship and something more several times. It was always physical fun for me; little did I realize how much it meant to Lillianna. Looking back, I should have paid more attention and been more aware of her feelings.

I needed to find a way to be completely truthful with Rei. If I didn't, someone else would do it for me. Lillianna wouldn't directly intervene, but she would find some twisted and violent way to interfere. My main concern now was the well-being of the kids while I went on my date with Rei. I had to ensure that they were safe and taken care of.

Rei had a security system, but Lillianna was skilled at hacking and could easily bypass it. And if only one person were watching the house, Lillianna would have no trouble taking them out. People often underestimated her, which was a grave mistake. When she was angry or in her "work mode," Lillianna was the most lethal and detached individual I had ever encountered.

Grace's name came to mind. She was Rei's closest friend but also had a history with Lillianna. That meant Grace knew all about Lillianna's true identity. I could reach out to Grace, be honest, and ask for her assistance. It was a risky move; it could backfire and ruin my chances with Rei. But my love for Rei outweighed everything else. Putting her first had always been my priority. I had to do whatever it took, even if it meant sacrificing everything in the end.

I sent a message to Matt and Tom, letting them know that I had finally ended things with Lillianna. Their excitement was palpable. It suddenly dawned on me how many people disliked and distrusted her. How had I not seen it before? Would Grace be open to seeing Lillianna's true colors, or would she continue to disregard my warnings?

After obtaining Grace's number through my government connections, I spent considerable time contemplating my next move. Should I make a call or send a text? Lillianna might have reached out to Grace to confide in her. The longer I hesitated, the greater the chance of that occurring.

Opting for a call seemed more personal and less risky. Texts could easily be forwarded, whereas a call could be directed to voicemail if Grace chose not to answer. I decided to leave a message with my number and ask Grace to return the call if she didn’t answer.

Imagine my surprise when Grace picked up the phone on the first ring.

"Why are you calling me Xavier?" Grace inquired, her voice tinged with suspicion.

"I have something important to discuss about Lillianna," I replied, striving to maintain a composed and neutral tone despite the panic brewing within me.

Grace snapped, "What about her?"

As my heart sank, I inquired, "Is Lillianna there?"

Grace hissed, "No, but she's on her way. If you want to keep this conversation from Lillianna, hurry up."

"Lillianna is aware of Rei's true identity. She has been slightly obsessed with me, but I ended my friendship with Lillianna tonight. Matt and Tom have done the same. Grace, be cautious around her as Lillianna has a hidden dark side. I assume you already know this, given your longer history with her," I explained hastily.

Grace had not hung up, indicating she was still listening despite no immediate response.

“I’m concerned about the safety of Rei and the children. Rei intended to have Shiloh look after the kids alone, but I don't think it's a good idea. If you understand Lillianna like I do, you'll know why. Could you please keep an eye on Shiloh, Onyx, and Salem when I'm out with Rei? I'm willing to pay you or owe you a favour, whatever it takes. My priority is ensuring the safety of those kids,” I implored.

“Why not reschedule the date if you're that worried?” Grace asked nonchalantly. She seemed pretty dismissive.

“There are important things I need to discuss with Rei that can't wait. To have a genuine relationship with Rei, I must be completely honest with her. If she decides to end things afterward, I'll accept it. But I truly love Rei and have for a long time,” I expressed.

“Did you fuck Lillianna after being with Rei? Is that what this is all about?” Grace snarled.

“What? No! I’ve been in love with Rei since we were teenagers. I never dared to approach her, and when I finally did, I was warned to stay away from her. I never pursued Rei. She chased me,” I exclaimed.

“Do you truly have feelings for Rei? Or is this just a game to you, Xavier?” Grace inquired sharply.

"Grace, I do love her. I would never harm Rei," I expressed with sorrow. "I've resigned from my job and distanced myself from my closest friend to protect Rei. Can you make the same claim?"

There was an audible gasp and then a dial tone. Either I hit a nerve and made Grace think, or I annoyed the fuck out of her. One thing was sure. Whatever Grace did next would determine if she was another person I had to protect Rei and the kids from.