Shadows on the Pavement
210 Words
Chapter 27: Shadows on the Pavement
Jay stood at the floor-to-ceiling window of his penthouse, watching the city blur into twilight. The soft sound of Lena’s footsteps behind him didn’t go unnoticed, but he didn’t turn.
“You’ve been quiet,” Lena said, voice cautious.
He exhaled. “You were followed today.”
She flinched. “You knew?”
Jay turned slowly. “I have eyes on you everywhere.”
Lena folded her arms. “Is that supposed to make me feel safe or controlled?”
His jaw tightened. He didn’t want to tell her the truth—that the same men who took Elijah had resurfaced. That someone had returned to finish the job. But he also couldn’t lie anymore.
“I need you to trust me,” he said again, voice low. “There’s more at play than you know.”
She moved closer, eyes locked on his. “Then let me in.”
The room felt like it was breathing. The silence thickened between them. His hand brushed hers, barely, but the contact sent a jolt through them both.
“I want to,” he whispered, “but I’m afraid once you know… you’ll run.”
Lena didn’t move away. “I’m still here, aren’t I?”
- Writer
