My heart filled 56

ALEXANDER

Raina was missing.

I could barely focus when i saw Dominic’s name flashing on my phone seen. The panic in his voice made my blood nun cold. I’d been seconds away from leaving the office for the night, but now all i could think about was where she was. I heard Dominic’s voice crack as he sandi: “She’s not at her office. She’s not at her apartment. I’ve checked everywhere “

“Where is she?” 1 demanded, my voice hoarse with tension. My heart slammed against my ribs, threatening to break free

“I don’t know, Alex, “Dominic’s voice was desperate. “I’ve looked everywhere. I don’t know where she is, I should’ve been there for her was too upset too… don’t know she probably feels like I’m mad at her. I’ve messed up.”

1 took a deep breath, peshing my panic aside. Dominic sounded like he was talling apart, and I couldn’t let that happen. Not when Raina’s safety was hanging in the

balance.

“Dominic, calm down,” I uttered, trying to keep my voice steady. The words felt useless even as they let my mouth, but I had to say something. I could hear the panic rising in his bone. “We’ll figure this out, hist take a deep breath.”

know where she is she’s not answering her phone, /

“How am I supposed to calm down?” Dominicapped back, his voice suddenly loud, frantie. “I don’t lo (she’s gone, and I don’t know where she’s gone!“”

1 could feel the panic rising in my own chest now, gnawing at me, threatening to take over. “Listen to me, “Imouthed, keeping my voice calm even as everything Inside me screamed. “We’re going to find her. We don’t know what’s going on yet. Don’t jump to conclusions.” I could feel my own hands trembling, but I kept my Erip tight on the phone, trying to hold onto some land of control. “just stay with me, Dominic We’ll figure this aut ”

But he didn’t hear me. The call ended abruptly.

I stood there, staring at my phone. I couldn’t breathe. What if Nathan had finally found out we were onto him? What if he’d taken her? My mind raced, images flashing before my eyes, none of them good. I couldn’t wait any longer. I had to find her, and I had to do it now.

1 slammed the car door shut, the cool night alt biting at my slán. My mind was spinning, Halba was still mixing. Every second that passed without hearing from her Trike a weight pressing down harder and harder. I couldn’t sit still anymore.

Should 1 head to Nathan’s office or his house? I ran my bands through my hair, the decision growing at me. Was he involved? Did he have her? 1 pulled my phone from my pocket and quickly ryped a text to Dominic

Where should I go? His office or his house?

It didn’t take long for the reply to come through.

If you go to either, don’t mention that we know about his plans. If he took Baina he might hurt her.

1stared at the message, a chill running down my spine. I typed back quickly.

I’ll go to the office first, then watch his house.

Thit send and started the car, my knuckles white as I gripped the wheel, Domine was right to be cautious. Nathan wasn’t someone to take lightly, I didn’t know exactly what he was planning, but I was sure as hell going to find out.

I packed a few blocks away from Nathan’s office, trying to calm the storm caging inside me. Thad to stay focused, I couldn’t let my emotions get the best of me, not with Raina still out there. As made my way inside, the quiet bum of the building seemed to amplify the tension coiling in my gut. My eyes scanned the office lobby, the sterile, well–kept space doing nothing to ease the unease twisting inside me.

Nathan was there, standing at the seceptionist’s desk, calling to someone, Wheal walked in, he didn’t see me at first, but as soon as 1 stepped forward, I could see his whole demeanor shift. He turned slowly, his face showing a mixed confusion and something else–worry, maybe?

“Where is she?” I demanded, my voice rough, almost desperate.

Nathan blinked, his brow furrowing “what are you talking about? Where’s Hain? What do you in, where is she?” His voice had shifted, the usual coldness replaced with something I wasn’t expecting, Worry. Frar?

Iclenched my jaw, trying to ignore the flicker of doubt. She’s missing, Nathan,” ispar. “I don’t have time for your games. 1 need to teal her. Something happened to Liam. Ineed to know wheels. Now.”

Haihan’s eyes widened, the surprise clearance. For a second, I thought he might have been taking it, but then he pulled at his phone with shaky hands, djaling a number–Raina’s number. His thumb hovered over the screen, and he pressed it to hisvar.

I watched him, try heart hammering

“Raina Raina, where are you?” he muttered, his voice low but laced with genuine concern. He waited, his eyes darting over to me. He was waiting for an answer that never came. He hung up, bis face tight with frustration “Sar’s not answering,” he said, his tone solter now, laced with more uncertainty than ever heard

Tossed my arms, still unsure if I was buying it. Either Nathan was the world’s best actor, or he truly didn’t know where Raina was. Neither option left me feeling

1/3

“Penwasting my time here,” I muttered, tuming to leave, I could feel Nathan’s eyes on my back, but Leooldn’t wait any longer. Dad

“Hey, wall” Nathan called after me, his voler suddenly sharps. “Where do you thitisk your’re going?“.

I didn’t stop. “L’un dome bear,” I stated, pushing the dost opens and stepping back into the cool night, I could bear him still calling questions, but I didn’t have the answers for him I was the our looking for them.

The door slammed behind me as I walked out, the city lights flashing outside, but told barely see them. Fenly saw the image of Ratna, out there somewhere, shipping bushes away with every sewed.

1slammed the car door shut and slid back into the driver’s seat, myndal racing. Trouldn’t the engine and pulled away from Nathankotike,

That’s when in use.

Hadtakrep moving, but where? My thoughts span as I started

Years ago, when Baina was upset and beealdah tind her at home, she’d always go to that duum lake, It was a little out of the way, a place we used to visit when we were incollege. It was quiet there, secluded. Every single time she weni, no matter what she was dealing with, I’d finder there, sitting by the water, alone.

1 gripped the steering wheel, the thought at her out there—alme–tightening my client. She wouldn’t just disappear without a reason. Something was wrong

I drove faster, my lees slimming the mod, the familiar path beading e farther from the city. The lake was on the outskirts, past the trees, just the way remembered. The bradlights out through the darkness, and when I pulled up to the familiar cleating, I sow fer–sitting on the edge of the water, her figure harly visible in the night.

Lparked a

lurther hack, killing the engine. It was quiet, too quiet. My heart beat loudly in my chest, and I felt the urge to rush over to her, but I knew better. E had to approach slowly. In‘ know what kind of state she was in

1stepped out of the car and called softly, “ali?“.

– didn’t respond right away. I took a few steps closer, but her shoulders stiffened, the tension in her body obvious even in the dim light. I called her name again, trying to keep my voice steady.

{“Ramit’s me…it‘% Alex,” Tuntered, taking another step.

She scrambled to her feet, not turming around. Her back was still to me, her body rigid, and I could feel her pulling away from me, even though she hadn’t said a

word ver

“Raina, talk to me,” luiged.

she finally spoke, her voice cold, tight with emotion. “I’m not deaf, Alex. I heard you. Just leave me alone.”

My stomach twisted at the sound of her voice–so sma to defeated. But I couldn’t leave her like this, not when i knew she was hurting.

“I’m sorry,” uttered, my voice softer now. “Dominic called me. He said you were missing…I was worried where the hell have you been?”

was trying to hold herself together. The silence stretched between us, and I saw her shoulders shake

She didn’t tum, but toould hear her breathe in deeply, like she was try slightly as if she was trying to hold backtears.

i could see the puffiness around her eyes before she even looked at me. She had been crying. Her Cake was flushed, and her eyes were red–rimmed. That’s when it hit me. She wasn’t just missing she was in pain. Real pain

Istood there, watching her, my mind seaming at me to leave her alone, but 1kw that would be the dumbest thing I could do. She needed someone to be the

event she didn’t want it.

I took a deep breath, my muscles tese with the urge to rush to her side, but I forced myself to walk slowly. She didn’t look up as approached, but I wasn’t about to

backdown

id feel the

“Baina, talk to me. What’s going on?” I asked, my voice calm, but I could feel the frustration starting to rise.

“Nothing,” she replied Elarly, not ruming around.

1 didn’t buy it. I couldn’t. Not alter everything that had happened. She tried to move past me, but I blocked her path. She froze for a moment, her whole body stiffening. The silence that followed fell thick, like the air itself was holding its breath.

Her voice broke the tension, sharp and cutting. “You’re not dragging me home today, Alex,” she snapped. “I’m not going to be obedient for you. Not today.”

the shoved me, hard. I barely moved, my feet planted tinnly, but it only pissed her off more. I wasn’t about to let het walk away, not like this. Not whom I could see

the cracks interamer.

“What is it with you people?” she yelled, her voice rising, her anger pouring out, “Why can’t you just leave me alone? Nathan’s been calling me all day, and so have you! Even Dominic She stopped mid–sentence as Dominic appeared, walking up to her. He reached her side quickly and pulled her into his arms.

1 heard Dominic’s voice, low and urgent, as he whispered, “Thank God you’re sale.”

But Raina pushed away!

l away from him, her body tense, her fists clenched at her sides. “No,” she said, her voice strained with emotion. “Leave me alone.”

she pointed at me, and I could feel my heart sink. “It’s all his fault,” she spat. “He just had to hurt me again. Why would be dig into Nathan like that?

Het words hit me like a punch to the gut That’s whenk clicked–the problem wasn’t just with Nathan, it was withime, she blamed me for

everything

*if i didn’t know…” she trailed off, her voice breaking, “I wouldn’t be haut agam because of him.”

I could feel my threat tighten. She was hurting because of the things I had said. Hecate of the things Flud done.

Domile stepped closer, his voler low but firm. “If you didn’t know, you would have gotten hurt. And I couldn’t handle that, R. Not again.

she shook her head, her voice trembling “Why do you think 1 can handle it now, Dominic?” Her words were barely audible, but heard them. And they cut deeper thanamthing I’d felt in a long time.

Before either of us could say anything more, she broke down. The damn she’d been holding back for so long finally cracked, and the sobs came violently. Her body shook with the force of it, and I couldn’t just stand there.

I stepped forward, slowly, carefully, an if not to see her away. She didn’t fight it. She didn’t push me away as I wrapped my arms around her. She just let me hold her, her tears soaking through my shirt.

1 let herary. There was nothing could say right now. Nothing that would make it better. All old do was be there, let her know she wasn’t alone.

In the silence, that followed, my mind raged, tom between wanting to confort her and the gut growing at me, I wanted her to know the truth about Nathan about everything. But my mind kept telling me that it wasale. That had done it out of jealousy because I was losing her.

And yet… when I’d found the truth about Nathan, it tell a weight had been lifted. But seeing her like this, broken and crying in my arms, made me question everything

why me?” she asked between sobs,

shervoice small and fragile. “Why does it always have to be me?

Herquestion hung in the air, and I didn’t have an answer. I couldn’t.

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+25 Domi

BAINA

now he sundved the night. My heart

The truth was suffocating. It pressed against my chest, heavy and relentless, like a storm couldn’t escape, I didn’t even know felt like it had been shattered into a million tiny plecres, the damage Alex had done years ago resurfaring Infull force.

I sat by the lake, staring at the still water, the weight of everything crushing me. How had I let Nathan worlds way into my heart, take control of my emotion, only for him to twist the lile this deeply? Was it his betrayal–the realization that he had only ever wanted to destroy my family–that hurt the most? or was it the shame of trusting him so completely?

I dropped my head into my hands, gmaning softly. My chest ached with every thought. “How did let it get this far?” I whispered, my voler trembling.

The spot around me was quiet, too quiet. Nothing had changed here. It was still serene, calm, and yet it mitored my sadness. The same feeling of despair Thad carried the last time care here.

sadness, disappointment, pain–it was all the same. The lake had seen at my lowest moments, a witness to my struggles. I realized with a bitter laugh that I never came here to celebrate. No milestones, no moments of joy. This place only knew my grief

The only light in my life had always been my kids. Ava and Lam. They were my reason, my grounding for. But now? Now I couldn’t even think straight.

Their faces flashed in my mind, and I gripped my knees tighter, staring at the water. I needed to focus. This wasn’t the time to spital. “Get Liam and leave the country,” I muttered under my breath, the words a mantra. That had been my plan, and I needed to stick to it.

But the thought didn’t bring the relied I hoped for. My mind kept circling backto Nathan, to Alex, to the chaps that had become my life.

I stared at the horizon, the water rippling slightly with the breeze. This place was supposed to bring me peace. Instead, it felt like it was mocking me, reminding me of everything I couldn’t fi

But then Alex had to show up, of all people.

Iclenched my jow, the frustration bubbling just beneath the surface. Seeing him here was unexpected enough, but then he had to go and call Dominic

“Really, Alex? 1 muntered to myself, shaking my head.

The thought of those two working together, being friendly, was battling They hated each other–or at least they used to. My mind supplied the reason why things bad changed, why they were suddenly so invested in my life.

They had a common enemy now. Nathan,

And somehow, their shared geal made them allies. But it didn’t make it any less irritating

I pushed Alex away, stepping back to create space between us. “We need to go to the cops,” I said timely, my voice shaky but resolute. It was the only thing that made sense–surely, with the evidence Dominic and Alex had, the authorities cold handle Nathan

But Dominic shook his head, the expression on his face more serious than I’d ever seen it. No, Raina That’s not an option.”

Itroword. “What do you mean it’s not an option? This is serious, Dom. Nathan’s dangerous!”

Dominic let out a heavy sigh, rumming a hand through his hair. “I know he’s dangerous. That’s exactly why we can’t involve the cops. He’s got them in his pocket.”

Hrobe, blinking in disbelief. “What?“.

He nodded, his tone grim. “I’ve seen the pictures myself—Nathan meeting with high–ranking officers. Shaking hands, exchanging files. They’re not just associates; they’re his insurance policy We go to the cops, and he’ll know before we even finish tiling a report

“That can’t be trut My words faltered as the weight of what he was saying hit me. Nathan really was more twisted than I’d thought.

“It’s true, Raina.” Dominic’s voice softened, but it carried a sharp edge of frustration. “We need to be careful. One wrong move, and he’ll retaliate in ways we can’t control.”

I moved my arms, my frustration mounting. “So what? We just sit back and do cothing?”

“Dominic said family. “We handle this ourselves. Quietly, Carefully. But going to the cops isn’t an option.”

I hated that he was probably right. Still, the dead letting Nathan ogntinue his schemes without immediate consequences made my skin crawl.

I took a deep breath, trying to steady the turmoil inde ine in court. Not after everything I know now,”

“Agreed,” Dominic replied, his gaze steady.

. “Fine. But if we’re doing, this ourselves, then I’m taking him off my case. I con’t have him representing

hesitated, looking at him with a mix of frustration and desperation. “Why can’t you do it? You’ve got all the evidence. You’re the one who dug up all this diet on

Dominic raised an eyebrow, his expression fim. “Because it needs to come from you, Halina. You’re his client. If I go in there, he’ll spin it into something else – tumit into a power play or a threat. He needs to hear it from you, and you need to make it clear he’s done.”

The thought of facing Nathan made my stomach chum. The idea of standing in front of him, knowing what he was capable of, felt like stepping into a lion’s dem.

clenched my fats, polce trembling with anger and prives

Alexa slid around my side, Histouli was tim yet ampuisingly gentle, and I could feel the weight of lds pace as he leaned closet.

“Leanga with you,” be offered, his voice how but strade. “To tell Nathand

I rode for a douent, tuning we bead to look at him. “You win powie? Was this even a good idea?

He nodded, his expression earnest, “yes All Eneed is a chance to ponve that I’m not

The sincerity in his voler made my chest tighten, but it also set off woning bells in my mind. Was this a good idea? Could I trust him to be by my side during this confrontation withini making things we?

And yet, a pan of the wanted to believe him. Wanted to believe that majde, Jost maybe, he had changed, fut then, my heart reminded me of the painter’il caused the years of hot that will lingered like a shadowwer evriyiling:

Thesitated, and Ales seemed to sense my docht, His grip around me loosened stiglly, giving me rooms to pull away if I wanted to. “Raina,” he added softly, “t know I’ve bout you beton, and low beamever undo that, but if there’s any way tran make things diclit, let me.

words felt like they were peeling away the layered anger and mistrust f’bwrapped ammid myself, exposing the vulnerable parts I wasn’t realy to confront

Could ever give him a chance? Methoughts tangled with rachother, pull

| Betore Leould respond, Dominic’s voice out through the moment le a blade, “Weerd in .Now.”

He stood a few feet away, his posture truse as he scammed the arra, liseyes dated to the darkened comers of the street, és body language screaming urgency

“Win?” I asked, startled by his abruptness.

Dominic glanced at me, his expression fim. “Because we don’t know who’s watching. And I don’t trust that Nathan doesn’t have eyes cams.”

The mention of Nathan sem a chill down my spine. Downinic was right; the last thing we needed was to be caught off guard.

I swallowed hard and nodded, stepping away from Alex’s hold and moving tons and Dominic’s cat, Behind me, Alex hesitated for amement before tollowing, his footsteps heavy with unspoken wonds.

As I climbed into the passenger seat, Donde slid behind the wheel, his jaw elenched tight. Alex moved to his own car but out before calling out, “I’ll be right belund you Jast to make sure you’re sate.”

Dominic redeyes, montering, something under his breath as he started the engine.

As we pulled away from the carb, I caught a glimpse of Alex’s car following closely belituil, his headlights eating through the darless, ty thoughts churned, tom between the lingering pain of the past and the uncertainty of what lay aliead

Dominic’s voice pulled me from my oeverie. “You shouldn’t let him get in your load, Halina.

I tumed to bem, startled, “What are you talking about?”

“You know exactly what I mean,” he replied, his tone clipped. “Alex. Don’t let him malate you to thinking he’s changed.”

I Drowned, crossing my arms over my chest. “I don’t need you to tell me how to feel, Dominie.”

His crip on the steering wheel tightened, but he didn’t respond. Instead, his silence filled the rar, leaving me to wrestle with my own condicting emotions.

As soon as I stepped into the house, the warmth of the entryway contrasted sharply with the chilll that cling to my skl. My eyes mediately caught my grandmother pacing the living room, her hands wringing together in worry. The sight sein a pang of guilt through me. I shared a quick look with Dominic, and it was like we bothicam • to the same unspoken agreement: we couldn’t say anything about Nathan’s plans. Not yet,

“Raina, there you are,” my grandmother said, aushing toward me. Her voice was tinged with rellel, but the worry in her eyes didn’t fade. “Where have you been? I’ve been worried”

“I’m fine, Grandma,” I replied, trying to keep my tone even “one and just needed to talk about some things

She didn’t seem entirely convinced. Her gaze shifted to louinte, silently seeling confiimation. He stepped forward, his face calm and collected as always

“We weir dissing some business,” Dominic explained anothly. “Nothing to worry about, I promise

My grandmother’s lips pressed into a thin line,

nodded slowly, though the crease in her brow remained. “I don’t like when you’re out so late, Haina. You

been though so much already. I just want you to be sale.”

Her words tugged at my heart, and I reached out to place a reassuring hand on her arm. I know, andma. I’ll be more careful.”

Dominic gave me a subtle glance, his eyes coming the same message I’d been telling myself: we couldn’t let her know. Not now. Not until we had move

ation, more proof. Telling her about Nathan and his plans would only add to her stress–and that was the last thing she needed.

“Why don’t you sit down?” I suggested gently, leading her toward the couch “You’ve been on your feet all day,”

Dominic cleared his throat. “I should check on a few things before calling it a night.”

Tuadded, understanding his need to step away. “Goodnight, Dominic.”

newodnight,” he replied, giving ww.grandmothet a small smile b

Istayed withow grambuother for a few more mhimtes, making small talk and trying to ease the tendon that

air Wheen my grandmother finally

And started to heat upstairs, the sounded we cannotes calling my name stopped me in. Her voor, tinged with sony, sent a jolt through my chest, i Jused to see bestausting at the base of the staircase, willing her hands menyously

“Raina, can 1 talk to you for a moment?” she askest, hen vetor quieter now

“Olcome,” Leplied, descending a ben steps was back on the thot with her. “What’s song, manna?“

She hesitated, bet gare dating to and the hallow where my grandtatius’s room was. “I’syon gianlitaflies,” she finally said, het tone heavy. “Hürisn’t ferli

(wave of concern washed evet me “What do you mean? He seemed the last oglu, strong pr

“That what I thought too,” she admitted, her baywes kanting together, “18ut this morning, he woke up feeling weak, and by this attemoon, he had a highlever.”

“A fever?” I repeated, trying to keep nov voler calm. “Pidyon call the doctor?

She nodded quickly, “Yes, Thad. Millet come in to check on him. He said it’s best a fever, but it’s high, the prescued some medication, and your grandfather’s resting noww, but.. Pistill wonded”

ter voice broke slightly on the last wood, and I reached out to place a resting had on her shoulder. “Unandina, if the doctor says it’s a fever, then that’s alli Grandpa will be fine. He’s strong he always bounces back.”

She gave me a small, grateful smile, but the worry in her eyes ligeted. “I hopes, Bains really do. He’s been though so much Lately, ”

“We all have.” I said gently, squeezing her shower. “ut we’ve going to get though this. Together,”

She nodded again, though het shoulders didn’t fully relax, “chunk you, deat. I just needed to say it out loud. “

1ewed in and gave her a quick hug, hoping it would offer se content. “Try to test, Calma Gondia will need you to stay strong for him.”

She patted nw and before stepping back. “You’re right, I’ll go sit with bion for a while.”

I watched her retreat down the hallway, her steps slow and deliberate, betone healing back upstairs. Even as I led to coince myself that it was just a lever, ease settled in my stomach, something telt. off. That I pushed the thought asble, telling myself that my gundaher would recover, pist like he always did.

He had to.

As I stepped into my room, the first thing I wanted to do was freshen up and shake of the tensiouth had been clinging to me since the lake, 1 grabbed my robe, letting out a shaky breath. The events of the day played in my bead, and told myself that tom now had to be better. It had to be

The piring seam that shattered the quiet was enough to freeze my blood.

“Haney!” I heard my grandmother wall from down the hall

Heart pounding, I threw on my robe and bolted out of my mom,

room, my feet skidding on the hablwood floor as 1 reached my grandparents‘ room.

These bere me stopped me cold. My grandmother was on the floor, her trail hands trembling she called my gritather’s head this tace was pale, his lips Linged blue, and dark red blood stained the sheets beneath him.

“Grandpa‘TM I shouted, rushing to their side. “What happened?”

“ite—he started coughing blood,” Grandi stammered, her voice breaking. Tears steamed downer lace as she looked at me belplessly. “He passed out! Partic clawed at my chest, but before I could even think about what to do, Dominic burst into the non, phone pressed tightly to his car. His expression was sharp, his voter a bark of unproxy.

“We’re bringing him in now, he snapped into the phone. “Get everything wady!”

Hanging up, Dominic didn’t waste a second. He scooped tandpa into his arms as it be weighed nothing, his jaw clenched tight. “Raina, help Grandma to the car!” be backed, his tone leaving no room for hesitation

I snapped out of my true state and rushed to my grandmother’s side “Come on, andma, Images, wrapping an am around her to steady her trembling franse, “I don’t understand,” ale w

e whispeard, het voler shaking as much as her body. “He was time this mouing. He was the ”

* kasow, Grandma,” I said softly, though my own heart was thudding wildly. “We’ll figure it out. Dominic’s taking care of him.”

We hurried down the stairs, Dominic alrady ahead of us with Grandpa in his arms. As we reached the door, I spotted Faith standing by the living room with Ava on herbip, her eyes wide with contem

“Faith, stay here with Ava,” Einstructed quickly. “Keep her safe for me.”

Faith nodded, though she looked as rattled as I telt. “. I’ve got her.”

With that reassurance, I helped and into the back seat of Dominic’s cat Dominic had already secured Grandpa side, and is movements were swift as be

“made up,” he endened, his tone chipped as he stated the rat.

odpa,” Lehispered under my breath, my nalla diggling beba may palins as Domlade sped fleough the streets.

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what was going on? My thoughts teli scrambledas i stood in the hospital hallway, staring at the sterile idles beneath my feet, tunne hand, it was ajelted that Hatna Badly koew the truth about Nathait. At least now I dido’s home to keep tiptoeing ammid lier, böling every move Alexand I made to expose that bastard.

adott, Alexwas simpelsting me. For all his faults and their weir may bewandeling everything litlils power to belji Halia, It was almost enough to make me like the guy, though i www’t about to say that out bound. We had one goal to take Nathan down. And forence, Alex seemed geminely comediteden it.

when Raina bonight up going to the cops, she wasn’t wrong to ask it was the logical thing bada, and for antenne like her who had always played by the miles it made sense thakto make her dental when we werk

“Kaina.” 1 told her earlier, standing by the con as Alex hovered nearby, “U’s isot that simple, Nathan’s a public figure. He’s respected, powerful,

Her brass, furrowed. “What does that barve to do with awiblog? It we love evidence, the Inidhullemine

I shook my head, “it’s not just about evidence. Nathan’s a criminal attorney, Raina, 111s ji is in twist the truth and make people believe whatever story benefits him. He could talk, his way out of a usundet charge it he needed to. Do you think a case agalusi film will stick if he has the cops in his pocket?

Her lips pressed into a thin line, and boould see the wheels tmuing in het brail. She hated ills—lated the idea of fighting without the systeman berside. But the was starting to see what I was saying

qwe need something stronges,” I contimed,

tione sottending. “Something that can’t be spun or malpulated, And the only place to get that kind of result is in court. It’s the one place where he has ta plac by the rules,”

tw better not screw

she crossed her arms, a gesture I knew meant she wasn’t entirely convinced but we willing to let it go–for now. “,” alie muttered. “But we This up.”

Alex, who had been uncharacteristically quiet, nodded in agreement. “We won’t.”

I wasn’t so sum, but I kept me doubts to melt. We couldn’t atbonto tall–not with so much on the line. Nathan is dangerous, but we had to be smarter

The weight of the day pressed down on me, sufocating and relentless. First Baina, now Grandpa. I leaned against the hospital wall, pinching the bridge of my nose as exhaustion clawed at me. It had only been an hour since we rushed blushere, but it felt like a lifetime. The store scent of antisepticbumed my nostrils, and the steach humed article from the nurses and doctors blurred lite badground noise.

Why was worrying about a loved one so damn exhausting?

=itoot

1 glanced at Raina, sitting next to Grandina in the walling area. She looked as drained as i telt, her hands clasped tightly is her lap, her eyes fixed on the il Grandma rested a trail hand on hers, offering silent confort, but I could see the worry etched into both their faces.

The moment I saw Dr. Edwards approaching, diphand in hand and agrim expression on his face, I shot to my feet. My head was pounding from the relentless storm of thoughts swirling in my mind. Baina stood beside Grandma, who clung tightly to her hand forendon. The quiet strength in my sister’s posture was deceptive; 1kw she was barely holding it together.

“Docter.” I called out, my voice laced with urgency. “What’s going on? Is he okay?”

Dr. Edwards didn’t answer immediately. His gaze flicked between me and Baina before settling. “Let’s talk,” he said, voice careful. Too careful

My stomach dropped. He wasn’t bringing good news

ing.” I said, crossing my arms, trying to steady myself, Baina stepped closer, her wide, fearful eyes fixed on Edwants.

We’re listening.”

“Your grandfather’s condition is more serious than we initially thought,” Edwards began. ”

“This isn’t af

Ralia’s sharp intake of breath minored my own shock. “What do you mean it’s not a lever?” she demanded, her voice cracking. “He was fine yesterday!”

Edwards adjusted his glasses, his face grave. “We believe your graultather has been poisoned.”

“Poisoned?” The word exploded from me, disbelief and anger lacing my tone. “How is that possible? He hasn’t been-

“Domine,” Edwards interrupted, his calm demeanor doing nothing to soothe way rising panic. “It’s a stone–acting poison. It doesn’t show symptoms right away, which is why it can be so dangerous. But the signs are clear.”

Ratu tumed to me, her face pule as it i the blood had drained from it. “Polson! Who would.. How could

Leted my teeth, my lists clenching at my sides. “Are you sure? How can you even

“We’ve naminitial tests,” Edwards replied, his tone steady but tim. “bloodwork suggests exposure to a substance we’ve seen in similar cases. We’re running Turtle Testsiconlin.”

Rai’s voice shook as she asked, “Can Ganda sem

Edwards liesitated, glancing between us. “Yes, but only for a short time. He’s weak, and we don’t want to risk overexerting him.”

Grandma didn’t need any prompting. She squeezed Raina’s hand briefly, then hurled toward Grandpa’s post, here frall frame moving with detemination

Baina and I stayed behind, watching her disappear into the room. I tumed back to fdwards, he adjusted his stance, his usual professional demeanor cracking just

+25 Somun

enough to reveal the weight of what he was about to say. “Dominic, you need to understand,” he started, his mice steady but tinged with caution, “families like your–families with influence and wealth–tend to attract enemies. A lot of hate can brew in the shadows”

frowned, confusion mingling with frustration. “What are you saying?” I demanded, keeping my voice low but firm. “What does that have to do with my

He held up a hand, signaling for me

signaling for me to let him finish. “I’m saying this isn’t

random. This isn’t a fever or an accident. Whoever did this knew what they were doing.”

Raina, standing beside me, clenched her hands into fists. “But he was fine,” she protested, her voice trembling. “Grandpa was strong last night. He’s beentine

rewards cut her off gently, “That’s precisely why this type of poisoning is so dangerous. It’s slow, methodical. The symptoms only become apparent when it’s almost too late.”

My stomach twisted, the implications of his words settling over me like a stern cloud. “What about the doctor who said it was just a deve?” asked, my mind racing. “Shouldn’t they have caught this sooner?”

“That’s something you need to look into, “Edwards replied, his expression darkening. “Whoever that doctor was, they either missed it entirely–which is unlikely given the symptoms–or they’re complicit. You need to consider the possibility that this isn’t the first attempt to harm your family.”

His words struck a nerve, pulling me into a whirlwind of thoughts. My mind immediately dared to Liam, to the ordeal we’d endured with Alex’s chosen hospital. The memory was sharp, vivid, like a splinter lodged deep in my brain. This is starting to feel all too familiar, I thought, dragging a hand down my face in

frustration

why was this happening again? Why was it always the people we trusted who turned out to be snakes in the grass? Liam’s frail figure flashed in my mital, hooked up to machines in that sterile hospital room. Back then, Raina had insisted on moving him, sensing something wasn’t right. She’d been relentless, and when the math came out, it was horrifying. The Doctor at the original facility had been working against us. Alex had handled it, I wondered how his story ended. But now. now I couldn’t help but wonder if this was connected somehow.

Raina’s composurecracked further. “He’s dying,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “No. That’s not possible. He’s fine. He’s always been fine.”

Edwards” expression softened, but his words didn’t waver “I’m sorry, Raina, but the tests don’t lie. Your grandfather has been exposed to a toxin that’s shutting his body down. We’re running additional tests to pinpoint the exact substance, but at this stage..” He hesitated before continuing. “You should prepare yourselves. Say your goodbyes.”

“Raina shook her head, tears streaming down her face. “There has to be something you can do. Rum more tests. Find an antidote. Something!”

I reached out to steady her, though my own hands were trembling. “Raina,” I said softly, my voice cracking. “We need to listen to him.”

She wrenched her arm away, glaring at me through her tears. “Don’t tell me to listen, Dominic! This is Grandpa we’re calling about!”

My chest tightened. She wasn’t wrong to feel this way, but the reality was suffocating, I tumed back to Edwards, desperate for any shred of hope. “Is there anything we can do? Anything at all?”

Edwards sighed, the weight of the situation etched into his features. “We’ll do everything we can to make him comfortable, but the damage. It’s extensive. I’m

Raina let out a strangled sob, covering her mouth as her emotions spilled over. I tell my resolve cracking but forced myself to remain steady–for her, for Grandma, for Grandpa. Someone had to keep it together.

“Whoever did this,” I med under my breath, denching my lists, “they’re going to pay. I’ll make sure of it.”

Edwards placed a hand on my shoulder, a rare gesture of solidarity. “Focus on your family for now. Justice can come later.”

I froze in place as the truth sank in. Poison Grandpa was dying. The world around me seemed to blue as the weight of it all pressed down on me. My breath hitched, and for a moment, I couldn’t move. My legs felt like lead, my chest like a stone. This couldn’t be happening.

“Dom!” Raina’s voice cut though the fog, filled with anguish and tear. She ran into the room, her sobs echoing as she dropped to her knees beside Grandpa’s bed Tears streamed down her face as she grabbed his hand, clutching it tightly. “No, no, no,” she whispered, her voice breaking “Grandpa, please.”

Her pain snapped me out of y paralysis. I clenched my fists, cursing under my breath. I had to move. I had to do something. But what the hell could I do?

Grandpa died, I’d only have Grandma, Rain, and Faith left. The thought sent a cold shiver though me. I was the one responsible for them. Could handle that? Could I protect them? My mind raced with doubts and fears, each one louder than the last. I was barely holding myself together, and now this?

I crossed

sed the room, my movements stiff and robotie Kneeling next to Grandma, I reached out and placed a hand on Grandpa’s. It was cold–to cold–and his pulse was faint, barely there.

“Grandpa…” I whispered, my voice breaking. The man who had been the foundation of our family, the one who taught me strength and resilience, was slipping away right in front of me.

Kaina suffled, her grip on his hand tightening. “This can’t be happening,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “He was fine…. He was fine.

The doctor’s words replayed in my head, each one hitting harder than the last. Poison. The Doctor said deandpa had been poisoned. And not just any poison–dow and methodical, Deliberate. Someone had done this to him. Someone had wanted this.

First was Eliza who needed to be put away for harming Liam. And now–Nathan’s face flashed inny mind, and my jaw tightened, Was it him? It made no sense. Grandpa and Nathan barely crossed paths. But Nathan was crafty, manipulative, and he wasn’t working alone. Someone was pulling his strings, and I had no idea

Grandma looked up from her prayer, her face lined with grief. “Dominde, we need in pray. We need to ask for a miracle”

A lump formed in my throat as I pressed my forehead against my clasped hands. A miracle? Sure, I’d take one. But miracles didn’t stop the poison coursing through Grandpa’s veins. Miracles didn’t catch the bastard responsible for this.

I stood abruptly, my hands balling into fists. “I’ll be back.” I moltered, my voice tight. Without waiting for a response, I stepped outside the room and pulled out my phone

My phone felt heavier than usual in my hand as 1 scrolled through the contacts. There was only one person I could call someone who could act quickly without wasting time. Alex

4 hit the dial button, pacing the corridor as the phone rame once, twice, before he picked up.

“Dom?” Alex’s voice came through sharp, laced with concer

Raina

e got a situation,” I said, keeping my voice low but urgent. “I need you to get the kids out of town. Somewhere safe. Somewhere no one knows. Not even

There was a pause. “What’s going on?” alexasked, histone measured but pressing

“No time to explain,” I snapped, frustrationbobbling under the surface. “Just listen. Get Liam. Pek Ava up from my house. I’ll let Faith know you’re coming for her”

Another beat of silence, and then Alex’s response came, steady and certain. “Got it. I’ll handle it.”

1 pushed the door open and stepped back into the room. The air felt her here, chick with the weight of spoken fears and impending loss Rains was by Grandpa’s side, her fingers clutching his trail hand like it was the only thing tethering her to reality. Grandma was seated beside her, her lips moving in silent prayer, her face etched with grief.

Iwallard over and sank into the chair on the opposite side of the bed. Grandpa’s breathing had changed–it was rapid, shallow, each breath a struggle. The doctor had said it was only a matter of time, but seeing it unfold in front of me was something else entirely.

“Dom,” Raina whispered, her voice breaking. She didn’t look up, her eyes fixed on Grandpa’s face. “He’s leaving us. Isn’t he?”

1 swallowed hard, my throat tight. What could say to that? There was no sugarcoating it. No empty platitudes would help here. “He’s lighting,” I managed, though my own voice betrayed the doubt fele, “But we need to be here for him.”

Haina’s grip on Grandpa’s hand tightened, and she nodded, her shoulders bling as silent tears slid down her cheek

Grandma looked up at me then, her gaze steady despite the sadness in her eyes. “Domine,” she said softly, her voice trembling with the weight of her woods. “He’s always be so proud of you, of all of you. No matter what happens, remember that.”

I nodded, unable to trust my voice. The man lying on that bed had been our anchor, the one who kept this family grounded through every storm. The thought of losing him felt like the world shifting beneath my feet.

As Grandpa let out a labored exhale, I reached for his other hand, gripping it tightly. “We’re here, Grandpa,” I said, my voice cracking. “We’re not going anywhere.” His eyelids fluttered, and for a moment, I thought he was trying to say something. But his lips remained still, and the room fell silent except for the sound of his uneven breaths.

Haina leaned forward, pressing a kiss to his forehead. “We love you,” she whispered, her voice bay audible.

The words hung in the air, a quiet truth that none of us could deny. And as I sat there, holding onto Grandpa’s hand like it was my lifeline, I couldn’t shake the weight of everything, still left to do. Nathan, his shadowy accomplice, the poisoned threads woven through our lives–it all had to end.