He heard silence from the other end of the line for a beat before Mr. Black laughed. "Good," he murmured in a rough yet slightly affectionate voice. "I prefer to hear that.. But remember, son, keeping them safe comes first. Always."
Derrick's heart pounded with a mix of determination and worry. He understood the weight of Mr. Black's words. Protecting Sarah and the boys would be their top priority, even if it meant masking the depth of his feelings for Sarah.
"I know, sir," Derrick replied, his voice filled with respect.
"Now," Mr. Black continued, "let's figure out a way for you to see them more often. Discreetly, of course."
Relief washed over Derrick. He wasn't alone in this. They would find a way. Sarah chimed in, her voice a touch breathless. "Grandpa's right, Derrick.
