Rei’s Point of ViewAfter Salem and Onyx had gone to bed and Shiloh had disappeared into her room with a book, Grace offered to stay the night and watch a movie with me. Her kindness was appreciated but unnecessary. I assured her that I was handling things just fine on my own. Yes, I was disappointed, but I had endured plenty of difficult situations. This was a minor disappointment, nothing that was truly detrimental.I was aware that Xavier had feelings for me. He called his friend who then told Sam, who eventually told me. That was more than just casual kindness; it was a boyfriend's behaviour. However, I wasn't naive enough to believe that Xavier and I were in a committed relationship. But it was reassuring to know that he had some level of interest in me. And to be honest, I definitely had feelings for him too.I tidied up the kitchen, washing the few dishes we had used. When I reached Xavier's mug, I couldn't help but pause and smile. It hadn't been a full day since we hooked up,
Don Brzezinski’s Point of ViewXavier Wood's supervisor in the elusive government agency was my meeting companion. We didn't often interact with those on opposite sides of the law, but we had an unspoken understanding. Ethan Steele was a rare breed - a kind, unbiased and moral man. These qualities were hard to come by in either of our spheres of operation. Under different circumstances, it would have been a pleasure to meet with him. Unfortunately, today was not one of those.Ethan Steele was a master of balance, easily navigating between two opposing worlds. As a high-ranking officer in the covert government organization where Xavier Wood worked, he could feel the tension in the room, and his expression turned somber when I spoke so formally. This wasn't just a casual catch-up between old friends. Something serious had happened."I'm afraid my granddaughter has gotten involved with one of your agents," I said grimly.“Oh no, romantically?” Ethan groaned, apprehension creeping into his
Xavier’s Point of ViewIt looked like this assignment was going to take longer than expected. I ran my fingers through my short, dark hair in frustration. Our mission guidelines discouraged communication with people outside of our group unless absolutely necessary, but I felt it was needed in this case. Sam had thought ahead and given me Rei's number through Matt's text message. I just needed to figure out what to say when I messaged her.X-Biker Friend: Hi there, I wanted to let you know that I'll be unavailable for a while - more than just a few days. I won't be able to take any phone calls, and my responses to texts might be delayed, but I'll get back to you when I can. I enjoyed hanging out with you and am excited to see you again once I return.I didn't anticipate a reply, knowing Rei would probably be busy with work. I couldn't help but laugh as I pictured how her co-worker Mary would react when she found out about my interest in Rei and that the feeling was mutual. Maybe it was
Rei’s Point of ViewRei: Mary had a great time teasing me until the floor became busy. I've never been more thankful for having a lot of patients. Fortunately, there were no significant issues for anyone who came in tonight.Rei: Your texts meant a lot to me, though. Thank you for sending them.Before continuing, I paused momentarily, unsure how my messages would be interpreted. Deciding to take a break, I tossed my phone onto my bed and went to shower before heading downstairs to cook dinner and assist the kids with their schoolwork. They usually took the school bus if I couldn't drop them off or pick them up. Thankfully, Shiloh was responsible enough to watch her younger siblings until I returned home. Walking into the living room, I saw her engrossed in a book while her brothers played on their tablets until my daughter noticed me standing there.With a sweeping gesture towards the staircase and the railing that Onyx had attempted to jump over the day before, injuring himself in the
Xavier’s Point of ViewAs I read Rei's messages, a smile spread across my face. I never expected her actually to reach out to me. But there it was, in front of me: concrete proof that she cared enough to message me. It may have been a simple gesture, but it meant the world coming from someone like Rei. I wanted to respond but needed to figure out what to say. Unfortunately, I couldn't reveal my whereabouts or current activities. Frustrated, I ran my hands through my hair and closed my eyes, trying to come up with the right words.X-Biker Friend: I'm so happy to hear that. 😊 Talking to you is the highlight of my day and means a lot to me, too.I switched off my phone and set it aside, trying to clear my mind. The current assignment had consumed all my thoughts, and I couldn't seem to focus on anything else. I wished it would be over soon, but I knew that was unlikely.Our team's director, Ethan Steele, had paid a surprise visit to our secret government branch and met with our superviso
Aamon’s Point of ViewI observed the children playing at the park: Onyx and Salem expertly maneuvering on their skateboards while Shiloh swayed gently on the swing, lost in her music. I have been a silent guardian over them, always careful not to draw attention to myself while watching them. Our family and its connections have always strived to give Rei and the kids their independence while keeping them safe. I often volunteered for duties like this because it allowed me to catch a glimpse of Grace. It was both heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. My ex will always be my "home", even if we can't be together.Today, my grandfather wanted Ethan Steele to talk to Xavier Woods. He wanted to give him a choice: continuing his relationship with Rei would mean transitioning from one dangerous environment to another. But the world that the Brzezinski family operated in was far more perilous.My grandfather had warned the director of the secret government agency that he needed to be
Grace’s Point of ViewEach time I crossed paths with Aamon, his last words to me haunted my thoughts. I never understood why he paid me to befriend Grace, and even after I left our mutual employer - the one Lillianna had recruited me for - Aamon still watched my dear friend. He had trained me in the art of awareness and self-defence, skills that came in handy during my assignments infiltrating and befriending others. But when it came to Rei, there was no need for deception. My only task was to ensure she made connections. It was a strange job, but it paid well and unexpectedly brought us together. Yet, looking back now, I can't help but wonder if things could have turned out differently if I had known the truth behind Aamon's actions.I could never comprehend Aamon's fascination with Rei Draven, or the entire Brzezinski family, for that matter. She was such a gentle soul, raised in a strict household that ultimately abandoned her once she married Greg. We all received messages from Rei
Xavier’s Point of ViewThe anticipation of seeing Rei again was overwhelming. Choosing to be with her was never difficult for me; she was always my top priority. My actions, even when I stayed away, were driven by my love for her. She had captured my heart, and I hoped she would someday feel the same way about me.I had romantic plans to impress her, starting with dinner at a cozy Italian restaurant and then a scenic drive under the starry sky. Rei agreed but also suggested bringing a backpack with extra clothes in case it rained. She assured me that Shiloh had agreed to babysit her brothers and knew Rei would return quite late. My mind swirled with possibilities, picturing us returning to my place and indulging in our desires together.When I contacted Matt and Tom also to let them know of my impending return, they eagerly shared their conquests with Rei’s friends and boasted about their sexual exploits. I cringed, listening to them, thinking that it sounded immature. I probably would
Rei's Point of ViewI yearned for the freedom and exhilaration of riding on the back of Xavier's motorcycle, but ever since we found out about my pregnancy, he insisted on taking the car whenever we went out together. While I understood his concern for my safety and that of our unborn child, I couldn't help but feel a sense of loss for the rush of wind in my hair and feeling like I was flying with him. This baby was a surprise blessing for us, one we both cherished deeply, yet I couldn't shake off the lingering longing for our carefree rides on his bike.Shiloh had kindly offered to take care of Onyx and Salem while Xavier took me out for a date. Life had been hectic with moving into a new house and the kids starting at a new school. Though we didn't live in our small hometown anymore, we were still close by. It was a chance to start fresh, something we all needed. The kids had finally found their place and made friends who often hung out at our house, enjoying bonfires and stargazing
Rei’s Point of ViewTwo weeks passed by in the blink of an eye. It was strange adapting to our new normal. The kids were pulled from school so that we could have a proper funeral for my grandfather and we could find new living arrangements. Saying farewell to a man who played such an influential role in my life yet remained unknown until his last moments was an incredibly surreal experience.As the casket was closed, Shiloh and Onyx remained silent as they said their final goodbyes. I couldn't help but notice Xavier, Aamon, and Salem standing together. Both men reached for one of Salem's hands, causing him to straighten his back and take a deep breath. It was almost as if he acknowledged someone or something only he could see. I tried to look in the same direction but saw nothing. However, recent events have taught me not to discount the possibility of there being something more beyond our physical world.Since our last moments together, I hadn't sensed X's presence. However, not long
Rei’s Point of ViewMy choice. This time, it would be my choice. The words echoed in my mind as I stared at my three sleeping children. I couldn’t recall a time except when Xavier came into my life when I was truly given a choice—when the decision was entirely my own.“You have a lot to think about. Why don’t I give you some space to do that?” my brother said as he patted my head and walked out of the room.My brother. I have a brother who is dating my best friend. I’m still trying to wrap my head around that. Wait, Aamon just patted my head as he walked out, much like Onyx would do to Salem. I smiled to myself at the thought.Honestly, I had no desire to return to the house. It held too many painful memories of my grandfather's death and Lillianna's betrayal. Every room felt haunted by the life I once shared with Greg. Starting fresh in a new place with Xavier and the children sounded like the best option.However, relocating my children from their current school and leaving behind th
Aamon’s Point of ViewAs Xavier left the room, the office fell into a heavy silence. Rei's nervous eyes darted around, taking in each of our faces."Chloe, were you paid to be my friend?" she asked hesitantly.All eyes turned to me, and I let out a sigh."I hired Chloe to protect you and Grace to become your friend. But Chloe, Grace, and Iris genuinely care about you, Rei. It may have started as a job for them, but their feelings for you are real," I explained."Ladies, Rei and I haven't had a chance to talk alone as siblings yet. Could you give us some privacy for a few minutes? Maybe check on Xavier and contact Sam to make sure she's okay. With our new circumstances, it would be best if Alex, Tom, and Matt knew what we were dealing with. If we're going to change how we operate, we'll need the support and understanding of our loved ones," I suggested.Grace squeezed my hand in support and kissed my cheek softly."I can stay if you need me to," she whispered discreetly.I smiled at her
Xavier’s Point of ViewOn my way back to the office, I passed by the kids playing in the game room. Salem noticed me and studied me intensely as if he was trying to figure something out. His face showed his frustration, and I couldn't help but wonder what was going on. Then, he looked past me and gave me a disapproving look. I turned around, expecting to see something or someone that had caused Salem's reaction, but there was nothing there. Just as I was about to continue on my way, Salem spoke up and caught my attention.Salem looked at me seriously and asked, "Can I talk to you, Xavier?""Absolutely," I replied. I noticed him looking over my shoulder and then sticking his tongue out. It was strange behaviour, but considering all that Salem had been through recently, it could have been his way of coping. At least he felt comfortable enough to come to me when he needed to talk."Can we go to your room to talk? Unless you and Mom didn't clean up, and it's too messy in there," Salem aske
Grace’s Point of ViewAs I opened my eyes, I realized that the bed was empty. Aamon was not there, and I could feel the coldness of the sheets where he had been laying. He must have left a while ago. I sat up quickly, pulling the sheets closer to my body for warmth. I let out a sigh, hoping that everything was alright. This was something that I needed to get used to once again, especially now that Aamon was in charge of the organization.As I dressed, I realized Rei had no clothes to change into. I rummaged through the bag of unpacked clothing and found a pair of jeans, a t-shirt, underwear, and a bra that would fit her. This would suffice for now; we could find a more permanent solution for Rei and Xavier's clothing later. Xavier had left everything behind at his apartment to get Rei to the hospital on time, so he also needed some clothes. Fortunately, I found a T-shirt and a pair of grey sweatpants that should fit him well enough. Aamon and Xavier had similar builds, which worked out
Shiloh’s Point of ViewI rolled my eyes as Salem ranted about Mr. Shiny Light Pants being a real person and how we were too clueless to see him. Eventually, he quieted down and started playing the game with Onyx. I couldn't help but reflect on how Salem had always believed that someone was watching over us, even when we were younger. Maybe he was right all along. With everything going on and our world turned upside down, I had to admit that anything was possible now.I leaned back in my seat and let out a deep sigh. Onyx glanced at me with concern, but I shook my head slightly and silently mouthed, "I'm okay, just exhausted." He nodded in understanding and mouthed back, "Me too." Strangely, this experience had brought my brothers and me closer than ever before. I had a feeling we would need each other even more as we adapted to our new lives and identities.Would we end up at the same school? Would people talk about us? It was obvious Mom was going to marry Xavier. His love for her was
X’s Point of ViewJust as I had done with Kaz, I guided Lillianna toward the light. It was effortless with Kaz; I respected the Don and enjoyed his company. However, I couldn't stand Lillianna. Yet, there was a glimmer of something in her that I couldn't ignore. After she crossed over to the light completely, I turned to leave."You're not coming with me, are you?" she asked."No," I replied."Will we ever meet again?" Lillianna's voice trembled with emotion."Not if I have any say in it," I responded sharply.“I loved him, you know. In my own way, I loved Xavier. And maybe, just maybe, he could have loved me back,” Lillianna revealed.“But you knew his heart was devoted to someone else, yet you persisted in your pursuit of him. He was never yours to claim. While Xavier may have shared his body with you, his heart always belonged to Rei. And it always will,” I retorted.“You love Rei. I can't quite comprehend who or what you are, but I recognize that feeling of loving someone you can n
Lillianna’s Point of ViewThe audacity of Aamon was unfathomable. Without a second thought, he had given my hard-earned jobs to Chloe, someone who had no business taking them from me. My head spun with fury, drowning out any sounds around me until Iris appeared, her cold voice cutting through the chaos. Before I could react, a searing pain ripped through my abdomen as her bullet tore into me. I felt my insides lurch and knew she had hit vital organs. The shock was almost too much to bear as I gasped for air, realizing this was how I imagined my end. A scream rose in my throat, but was stifled by the shock and agony coursing through my body. All I could do was curse fate for this cruel and undeserved death as I bled out on the floor in front of the bathroom. Rage turned to despair as my last thoughts faded into darkness.Chloe’s Point of ViewI couldn't believe what I had just witnessed. Iris had made a grand entrance and delivered a deadly blow with precision and finality. As I stood t