Sebastian
James extends his hand toward me, and for a moment, I consider not taking it. His knuckles are bruised, a harsh reminder of the punch he landed just moments ago.
But I know refusing his hand won’t help my case. I take it, his grip strong and unyielding as he pulls me up.
“Straighten yourself up, boy. We’ve got talkin’ to do,” he says, his voice low and heavy with authority.
I dust myself off, adjusting my jacket and running a hand over my sore jaw. My voice comes out steadier than I expect.
“I’m sorry, Mr. Alexander. Elizabeth got caught in the middle of all this, but I swear it was never my intention to involve her, let alone put her in harm’s way.”
James glares at me, his blue eyes cold as ice. He doesn’t say anything for a moment, and the silence is almost unbearable.
F
