"In tales of old, the story's often told,
'The cause of wars is often a woman,' they say.
From Helen's face to Cleopatra's grace,
Or countless others through the ages past,
They say love's fires in wars did blaze,
As empires crumbled,
and die hearts were cast."

*****************

Nikolas's POV

My fork kept ripping the lettuce piece on the plate continuously that it became almost inedible. The discordant screech of the metal against the ceramic plate reverberated loudly amidst the bustling clamor of the restaurant. Lilly's bubbly chatter dwindled to a mere whisper, her words slipping away as I descended into the depths of my mind, submerged beneath a suffocating wave of thoughts.

With a shadow cast, I have trodden the paths of this world alone. For years, I was alone. Solitude was my constant companion, and I grew accustomed to its embrace. My life was always an intricate web of secrets and deceit, my heart encased in a shell as hard as stone, devoid of warmth or compassion. That was the existence I understood, one I could navigate through with unwavering confidence.

But this, this is not familiar. This is foreign. An uncharted territory. I feel like a stranger in a foreign land, unaware of its culture and language, aimlessly traversing streets that lead to unknown destinations, helplessly roaming around without a guide to take me back home.

Part of me longed to hear those words escape her lips, a longing so powerful it threatened to consume me. Yet, an equally potent dread loomed in my heart. These tender words, like a blade through ice and steel, unveiled hidden and unfamiliar depths within me. They kindled both a fragile hope and an unsettling fear. This is so unknown, an experience entirely alien to my past, leaving me both lost and seeking guidance.

I never anticipated that a mere four-letter word could unravel me so thoroughly, yet it wielded an undeniable power over my emotions.

The innocent expression opened multiple doors, it uncovered several doubts, and I became more scared. Terrified of dragging her down, into this underworld where I will be wearing a crown for very soon. A life dominated by shadows, stained by blood, and veiled in deception, and in her presence, the danger will only multiply.

"Earth to Nikolas," Alex's words had me lift my head up from my unfinished food, my eyes falling on him, waving his hand in front of my face as he tried to pull me back to the present.

The illusion lifted, the surrounding chatter and clinking of cutlery filled the room and my mind, forcing my distressing reverie to dissipate. Leave it to me to conjure thoughts of death and anguish in response to someone professing their love. I swept a hand across my face, clearing my thoughts, and allowed my fork to fall to the plate with a soft clink as I leaned back into my chair, straightening my posture.

"So, what was that?" Alex asked, his eyebrow arching with tease and he crossed his arms over his chest.

"What was what?" I returned his question with another because I was just as clueless.

"I didn't know you two were at the 'I love you' stage," He pointed out, air-quoting the dreadful expression.

My throat burned and I shook my head, "I didn't know we were there either."

Alex's eyebrows pulled closer, his eyes slightly narrowing at me, and despite his uncertainty, a small smile lifted the side of his lips, "You really do love her, don't you," He asked, as if just now he had become sure of that fact.

"What do you think," I mumbled. Why does it feel so hot in here? Why was my heart sprinting off as though I'd just downed a gallon of adrenaline?

"Despite the fact that it is Natalie, this feels kind of heartwarming," He said with a warm smile, "I feel like I should hug you or like you pinch your cheeks, you look like a lost puppy."

I shot him a glare because he has to act all Alex-like. I rubbed a hand over my burning throat and couldn't help but address his first sentence, "What do you mean by despite it is Natalie?" I pointed out, my eyebrow raising in dissatisfaction, "What's your issue with her?" I asked, fully aware of the underlying tension between them and hating it beyond measure.

He shrugged, like it was so casual, "I don't trust her," It was as simple as that to him, "She is not the same Natalie I first met, she is different and she is rubbing me off the wrong way."

My eyebrows pulled closer and he carried on, sighing loudly as he edged forward in his seat, "I know you are bewitched by her and in love and all that but don't you think that she is really different lately?"

"Of course, she is different," I shot out in defense, it wasn't her fault but more like mine, "After I came into her life, she has been chased down, kidnapped, and threatened on more than one occasion," I clarified, fully aware of the impact of my tainted world on her once-bright self.

I am not blind, I'd witnessed how my shadows had gradually obscured her radiance.

"She found out that her mother was killed. She found out that Ronald, her twin brother is a part of our world, and not just that," I added, "She just figured out that she has a little brother too, one who was raised by Isaac himself," I shook my head, "All of this is bound to change her Alex, don't you think so?"

He appeared to understand my point, but something still bothered him, "It's not just that," He said, "What about Max," He questioned, "She knows about him, so, why didn't she ask you or bring up the topic at all?"

It was a question that had crossed my mind on many occasions. She seemed to always avoid that topic somehow. "Maybe she's dreading it," I muttered. "Just like I am," I added, feeling the weight on my shoulders grow even heavier. My secrets had become an unbearable burden, and she deserved the truth. I have to tell her, one way or another. I can't prolong this anymore; it is so unfair to her.

"Whatever floats your boat," He said, suspicious still. "You just need to be careful, your life isn't an easy one, Nikolas, nor is your past," He added, "If this is really getting serious then everything should be out in the open, or else one of you will end up severely hurting the other."

I resented how accurate and reasonable his statements were. Although that word might have unconsciously slipped from her lips, if I was going to confess the depths of my feelings for her, I needed to confess my truths and sins first. It was about time. No more dreading, no more running. She should make the choice from now onwards, she has the choice to either accept me with all my baggage or to decide if it is better to walk away...

The weight of these numerous possible outcomes bore down heavily on my chest, and the notion that my past mistakes could cost me her love tugged at my heart. It seemed like a justifiable punishment though, one I'd still deserve. But I wasn't certain if I could handle it this time around.

I turned my attention to Lilly beside me, seeking refuge from these dreadful scenarios. She was leaning back in her seat, engrossed in whatever was playing on my phone, completely oblivious to the harsh realities of our world. I fervently wished that she could always remain this way, innocent and shielded from the world's cruelty.

She looked up from my phone, and her gaze landed on me. In an instant, a warm, sheepish smile graced her beautiful face. I smiled back, it was as though the gentle curve of her lips had a magical power to soothe my turmoil and ease the anguish gripping my chest.

She discarded the phone away, losing her interest in whatever was playing before she stood up in her seat and crossed over to my lap. I wrapped one arm around her body, making sure she wouldn't trip and fall as she settled herself in my lap. She curled her arm around my neck and rested her head over my cheek, "Daddy," She said, ruining me yet again with that little word, "You see the duck?" She asked, edging her head back so she could look at me.

"Which duck?" I asked, indulging her in anything she wanted as I inched my head closer and pecked her cheek.

"Outside," She pointed at the far window, "Tis so small."

She looked back at me, her hand playing with the strands at the back of my hair, "I want a duck," She announced and I nodded my head.

"I will get you all the ducks in this world," I said and she smiled in accomplishment before she turned to Alex, "See," She pointed out, "Told you," She added, being a teasing little thing and probably recalling a previous conversation of theirs.

My confused gaze met Alex and he let out a low chuckle at his wild daughter before he elaborated, "There is a park near here," He said, "She saw a duck and forced me to get her out of the car so she can chase her around," He shook his head, "Then she caught her, hugged her and squeezed the shit out of her before she brought her to the car, claiming that she will take her home," Alex added, narrowing his eyes at Lilly who in return buried her face in my neck, understanding her wrongdoings and hiding away from him.

"I told her we can't take the duck home, then she got angry and said her daddy Nik will buy her a duck," Alex added with a roll of his eyes at the last sentence. Lilly looked at me, ever so innocently and nodded her head, "Right?" She asked me and I couldn't hold back my chuckle, she was literally emotionally blackmailing me, knowing very well how I could never deny her a thing.

I gave her a nod, "Yeah, don't mind him, I will get you all the ducks you want," I said and her smile widened, "I want a pink duck," She requested and I nodded again, tightening my arm around her tiny waist, "I don't know if those exist but we will paint her pink if we have to."

She let out a low squeal, so delighted, and threw her fists up in the air, "Also...also," She continued, resting her little hand over my cheek, "A blue one," She requested again, "For my brother Max," She added, her little words slowly stealing my smile away.

I gave her another nod and her eyebrows pulled closer when she seemed to realize something, her little brain working and wondering as she tilted her head, "Do you know my brother Max?" She asked when she realized we'd never been in the same space before.

I gave her another nod, "Yeah, I do," I whispered as I smoothed her hair back, tucking it behind her ear.

She nodded in satisfaction before adding, "Also, a duck for Chase, okay?" She requested, and Alex sighed, "She's going to get one for the whole family now," He said with a facepalm, "Come here, you, stop blackmailing Nikolas," he beckoned to her with fake authority, and she giggled before jumping off my lap and heading over to her father.

My gaze flickered from them to my watch, noticing the time and I asked for the check afterward. I have to follow Natalie to the birthday party. Mr. High and Mighty must be there now with her and the thought alone makes me want to slice someone's throat. The waitress came, and I handed her my card. As she waited for the payment to go through, Lilly looked at her and spoke, "I have six ducks," she announced, holding up four fingers, "This many."

The waitress chuckled at her and asked with astonishment, "Oh, really?"

Lilly nodded her head, "You want one?"

"Yeah, I would love one," she said, handing me back my card before leaning toward Lilly and affectionately pinching her cheek, "You are so adorable," she said, and Lilly flashed her an angelic smile, winning everyone over. She was something else entirely.

The waitress looked between us, smiling warmly as she commented, "You guys make such a cute family," She commented politely before she headed for another table, "Have a nice evening."

My eyes widened, "We...what?" I asked in bafflement.

Alex let out a loud groan and pushed his face into his hands, "I knew this was gonna happen one day," He grated out, lifting his face from his hands to glare at me, "And now it has happened, I told you, as longs as she calls you daddy too, people will think we are a freaking couple," He gave a look of disgust and shook his head, "Unbelievable! As if I'd ever look at someone like you," He added with a roll of his eyes and I shot him a glare.

I got up to my feet and so did Alex, with Lilly tucked safely between his arms, "My reputation is being dragged through the mud," He whined again and I grumbled, "Shut up."

"You shut up, I don't want to be associated with you," He added, giving me a dissatisfied lookover.

I decided to ignore him and once we were outside, he accompanied me as I headed for my car, "I parked my car by the park because of this one," He justified, glaring down at Lilly, who shrunk in his embrace and I gave her a smile, planning to get her all the ducks she wants, "Drop us there, it's right below that hill," He pointed at the direction and I nodded, leaning and pecking Lilly's cheek before I got in and started the car just as Alex buckled her in the backseat.

He joined me in the passenger seat and my gaze flickered to the back one more time, falling on Lilly and making sure she was all safely buckled, she threw me a flying kiss, earning a genuine smile from me before I pulled the car into the street.

She kept on mumbling some words, singing, and asking Alex about the duck. I gripped the steering wheel as we descended the winding road. The scenery around us was breathtaking but before I could absorb anything, my brain worked at a higher speed when something felt out of the ordinary. The car was going at an abnormally higher speed than intended. My attention got torn away from everything else and I pressed the brake pedal repeatedly, trying to lower my speed...but there was no response.

A bit of panic surged through me, trying to steer away from the negative thought that consumed my head and I pumped the brake pedal again and again, thinking a small mechanical issue lay there but the car continued its unforgiving descent.

Oh fuck-

My knuckles turned white as my grip became firm but also trembling as the steering wheel became a lifeline to an uncertain fate, "We passed my car, it's back there, why didn't you stop?" Alex's confused words couldn't tear my gaze away from the road.

My heart pounded and I needed to focus, to not panic, I needed to be smart and do this with minimal damage. I had a kid in the backseat. My gaze went to the rearview mirror for a quick second, checking on Lilly before I spoke, my words composed as I grasped for control, "Alex, I need you to stay calm but I need you to get in the backseat right now and hold Lilly really tight," I said, the seriousness behind my words had the waves of confusion and anxiety radiate from him in an instant.

I tried again, testing my luck, but the brake pedal yielded no solace. The world around me transformed into a distorted painting, the colors blurred by my sheer terror. Desperation's chorus echoed through my mind and I announced, "The brake is not working."

Alex didn't need more and with a swift motion, he swapped seats, getting into the back and holding onto Lilly with all his might, sensing the urgency of the situation. My gaze roamed my surroundings, searching for a way to escape this road and into a less crowded one, my mind raced and I couldn't risk hitting another car, "Hold her tight," I muttered as I swerved the car right and headed into what seemed a more excluded road. The force of the swerve was unforgiving due to the car's high speed and I could hear Lilly's gasp and Alex's soothing voice as he calmed her down.

With each passing moment, the speedometer crept higher, and the once-peaceful night became a fucking nightmare. When I saw no car around, I reached for the emergency brake. But even that proved futile, the lever sticking in place as if mocking my desperation and I wanted to fucking scream. I was about to lose my mind and I kept searching for control, Lilly getting hurt due to this was not an option. I will find a way.

Lilly's scared voice from behind ripped my heart to pieces and almost eluded me from all my logic, "So fast," She muttered in fear, the speed of the car scaring her, "Slow," She added and Alex said something to me too but I couldn't hear him.

My heart pounded in my chest too loudly, the sound ready to rip my eardrums. I knew I had to act swiftly. I scanned the road ahead for any escape, my eyes darting from side to side. An idea clicked but I needed to reach a more straight land to lower the speed before I could cause a collision.

Up ahead, I spotted a clearing, a grassy embankment leading to a lone tree. I took a deep breath, my mind a whirlwind of fear and determination, "Alex, hold her really tight," I said once again, terrified to my bones of any harm befalling her.

As the car approached the clearing, I let go of the steering wheel with one hand, my grip still firm on the wheel with the other. I swerved the car towards the grassy embankment, hoping to use it as a buffer to reduce the impact.

The car left the road and plowed into the soft earth, the world outside spinning in a blur of green. Lilly's terrified cries filled the air as the car jolted, but with determination I held onto the steering wheel, bracing for the final impact. The car slammed into the tree, its crumple zones absorbing much of the force. The airbags deployed with a deafening roar, and I felt the jarring sensation of the collision. I felt dazed, the world around me spinning out of control.

In the blink of an eye, I snapped back to reality. I hastily pushed open the car door and leaped out, racing to the backseat. My eyes scanned Lilly's face and body, checking meticulously for any signs of harm. Her cheeks were flushed, and tears streaked down her face. Her lower lip quivered, forming a little pout as she sniffled. She was understandably frightened, but, thankfully, she appeared unharmed.

It was as if just now that I remembered that I had to breathe. I sucked in deep, the sudden rush of oxygen making me feel like I could collapse at the seams.

"You're okay, baby," Alex soothingly whispered to Lilly, "You're okay," He whispered again as he tried to get out of the car. But, the second his feet hit the ground, his balance faltered, "Oh, but I am not, Nik, take her," The haziness in his voice had me grasp into Lilly so fast as Alex crashed back into the seat. My eyes grew wide when they fell on his face and that's only when I realized that he was the one to get injured.

His head had collided with the window, and a gash oozed blood, staining the glass and his temple. The blood droplets falling down the side of his face left me breathless yet again.

I kept Lilly tucked to my side as I inched closer, fear and anguish melding into a bitter cocktail of emotions, a torrent of guilt flooded my soul as Alex pressed the back of his head against the seat, his hand going over his wound and wincing, his eyes pressing shut as he tried to keep his consciousness afloat.

"Alex," I said, my voice hard but also terrified as I reached for his face, as gently as I could and I checked his wound, looking for how deep it was. I cursed under my breath and his expression countered in pain, the impact of the collision wasn't as futile as I expected.

"I will call an ambulance right away," I said, already pulling my phone but Alex shook his head, "No, no need, I am fine, I just need a minute," He said, prying his eyes and looking at me before they flickered to Lilly, "She is already scared enough, don't," He said and when Lilly noticed her father's injury, she burst into tears, "Daddy," She cried out, extending her arms toward him.

I inched her closer to him and he took her into his lap instantly, "I am fine little bug," He assured her, hugging her tight and dropping a couple of kisses over her head, "I am fine."

In the meantime, I pulled out my phone and dialed Ronald, asking him to get here as quickly as possible. I opened the trunk of the car and retrieved the first aid kit. With it in hand, I dampened a cloth with alcohol before returning to Alex's side. Lilly clung tightly to her father's waist, her cheek pressed against his chest, her small arms wrapped around him as she settled in his embrace, her tiny sniffles punctuating the tense atmosphere.

"This is gonna sting," I mumbled and Alex nodded his head, "I've had worse."

With one hand, I gently tilted his head back, my other moving with deliberate care to wipe the blood away. The crimson liquid painted a vivid contrast against his pale skin, a stark reminder of how vulnerable we humans are, that one second is enough to take us away. My heart galloped within my chest, its pounding almost like a relentless drumbeat, threatening to burst through my ribcage.

The sight of his blood was a haunting echo, carrying me back to that dreadful day on the yacht. To his lifeless form sprawled on the floor, crimson rivulets flowing from his chest from when Isaac had shot him. The memory held me in its vise-like grip, threatening to drag me further into the abyss of despair.

The mere notion of anything befalling him clawed at my soul, ready to unravel me beyond measure, like a fragile thread under the weight of the world.

I was too lost in my despair, planning in my head how I am going to fuck up the whole world if anything ever happens to him when I felt Alex's hand wrap around my arm and grab my attention back to him. My eyes fell into his and he said, in assurance, "I am fine," He said, sensing how I was one second away from exploding.

My jaw tightened and I nodded my head, trying to clear my thoughts. I sucked in a deep breath, "Please tell me this was an accident," He pointed out and I scoffed, "Is it ever with me?" I pointed out the absurdity of my fucked up life, "I will check now."

After I finished tending to his wound, I left him seated there, cradling little Lilly as she succumbed to the peaceful embrace of slumber in his arms. I proceeded to inspect the car. First, I peered inside, scrutinizing the interior, and then I bent down to examine beneath the vehicle, searching for any telltale signs of damage to the brake lines or wires.

A wry chuckle almost escaped my lips, the situation too absurd not to find some grim humor. My fingers traced a frayed wire, the unmistakable evidence that someone had tampered with it, cutting it down with intent. It wasn't just a mere accident, was it? The universe seemed to have a cruel sense of humor, conspiring against me in every twist of fate.

I got up to my feet, going back to Alex's side, his gaze questioning and I nodded my head, my jaw ticking under the aggression of this fucked up life. I can't get a break, can I?

"Isaac?" He asked.

"Who else?" I grated out, ready to go bash his head after I made sure Alex and Lilly were home and safe.

The screeching halt of a car beside us instantly grabbed my attention, diverting my gaze to Ronald as he quickly exited his vehicle and rushed towards us. Concern was vivid in his widened eyes as they roamed over my battered car, and then the alarm on his face escalated when he noticed Alex's conspicuous wound, "Are you guys okay?"

His furrowed brows bespoke his worry as he shifted his gaze to Lilly, who was peacefully dozing in Alex's protective embrace. He reached out to tenderly stroke the back of her head, his voice heavy with concern as he inquired, "How did this happen?"

Alex pressed a hand gently against Lilly's back, reassuring her subconscious form and I shook my head, refusing to speak of this now, "Let's head to the bunker first; I need the doctor to check Alex's wound," I suggested, my gaze never leaving Alex as he stood up, my senses on high alert, scared he is not well still.

We proceeded to Ronald's car, and I pointed to my wrecked car, "Arrange for someone to take care of this."

"On it," Ronald affirmed as he opened the car door for Alex, ensuring he was seated comfortably with Lilly before we got in and he took off.

My mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, grappling with the possibility of how Isaac could still be so attuned to my every move, and how he continued to taunt me despite Nathan being in my custody. Even after I'd threatened him, warning him to harm the child if he ever crossed the line. Does he not care?

My unease persisted as we progressed towards our destination. When Ronald stopped the car, we all went down and walked inside. Lilly, now wide awake, scanned her unfamiliar surroundings with those inquisitive baby eyes. I entrusted Ronald with the responsibility of keeping her company, ensuring she wouldn't witness as the doctor stitched up Alex's wound. I stood by, my thoughts still preoccupied with the dangerous dance with my never-ending enemy.

After the doctor had finished attending to Alex and provided him with painkillers, I exited the room in search of Lilly. To my delight, I found her standing beside Jeremy, clutching a large red Pringles container. Her eyes lit up as they met mine, and she scampered over, a chip held tightly in her tiny hand as the crispy snack temporarily became her world and she forgot all that had happened less than an hour ago.

Crouching down beside her, I inquired, "Where did you get that from?" Her smile widened, and with her mouth half-full, she managed to reply, "Ronnie got it." I caressed her beautiful face, "Also juice, Jeremey got me juice," She looked around her, searching for her juice, making sure everyone was pampering and attending to her every need. This little devil can make just anyone fall for her.

Jeremy handed her the juice bottle, tousling her hair with a warm smile. Lilly, with her Pringles securely tucked under her arm, continued her exploration, her curious eyes darting around the room as she investigated her surroundings.

Inside the bunker, many of my men were present, and the sudden appearance of the little girl caused them all to halt in their tracks. Lilly tilted her head upward, her gaze moving steadily from one intimidating figure to another, her innocent demeanor untouched by the less-than-friendly faces surrounding her. She stopped in front of one man, a towering and muscular figure with a stern expression and a tattoo snaking up his neck, hardly the epitome of child-friendliness. But Lilly, undeterred, beamed at him and extended her Pringles offering, "Want Prigles?"

His face twisted in confusion, and his eyes darted between Lilly and me, silently pleading for guidance. I offered him a knowing look, a warning to treat the child with kindness. A nervous but genuine smile curved his lips, and he bent down, taking a chip from her, "Thank you."

She grinned in response, "Welcome." Then she gestured towards the exit. "Jeremy can give you juice," she helpfully instructed, and he nodded with a chuckle, "Okay, deal."

She left the man's side and toddled over to me, her tiny hand raised as if prompting me to clasp it in mine. "Where are we?" She inquired, her curious mind attempting to piece together the surroundings. I led her out of the room and back to where Alex was seated. "It's my office," I offered as an explanation, and her eyes widened in amazement. "Ohh," she breathed, being a wonderous little thing.

Upon seeing Alex, she broke free from my side and raced to him. With a warm smile, he knelt down and gathered her into his arms. She abandoned her chips, now completely forgotten, and gently traced Alex's bandaged cut, her lips forming a familiar pout. Alex planted a tender kiss on her head, attempting to soothe her as I requested for Ronald to drive them home.

Alex's gaze fell on me, sensing how I was ready to raise hell due to this, "Be careful," He gestured, asking me to tread cautiously. My eyebrow raised, "When was I not?"

Lilly waved me goodbye as they strolled away. I threw her a wink and she blinked both eyes back at me with a small smile. Although my heart had calmed somewhat, the turmoil within me remained still. If this incident could happen, if Isaac still had this much power over me, then he was capable of anything.

Picking up another one of my cars, I loaded my gun and sped off to the location where I knew he was staying. I'd been closely monitoring him, ensuring I tracked every move he made, but somehow, he still managed to overpower me. It left me bewildered. How could he still exert such control over me? How did he know precisely where to strike to hurt me the most?

As I pulled up to my destination, I parked my car and stepped out, my gaze fixed on the house beyond the ornate gate. I unholstered my gun and advanced with purpose, a madman on a mission. I pushed the gates open and entered the premises. A security guard attempted to intercept me. "Sir—" Before he could complete his sentence, I raised my arm and fired a shot into his chest, the force propelling him to the ground.

I continued my stride, the echoing gunshot grabbing unwanted attention. Just as I reached the door, another man yanked it open, his gun pointed at me. Without a moment's hesitation, I surged forward. The gun's barrel pressed against my chest, but I wrapped my hand around his wrist. In one swift motion, I twisted his arm, causing him to groan in pain. With a well-placed kick, I sent him tumbling backward, his gun clattering to the ground. I promptly used my foot to kick it out of reach.

"Welcome, son," Isaac's voice had me whip my head to the right to find him emerging from one of the rooms, nonchalantly sipping a glass of alcohol as though this was the most ordinary of encounters, "You know you are welcomed to come in without killing everyone," He drawled, the glass tilting towards his lips.

He quirked an eyebrow, "And you dare say I am the violent one."

My jaw clenched, and with determined steps, I advanced toward him. My hand clamped onto his collar, shoving him backward. The glass of alcohol tumbled from his grasp, shattering upon the floor. I pinned him against the wall, and he regarded me with a bored expression, "No manners at all," He said. He seemed to be drunk, the look in his eyes hazy and unfocused, "Your mother didn't raise you well, did she?"

"Shut up!" I grated out, feeling many of his men come out of their hidings and crowd us, ready to end me if I hurt their boss, "You kidnap me, you torture me, you punish and fucking drug me, and I stay silent, I am okay with that," I shot back, "But if you dare and cause Alex any harm, I would rip you into pieces without a care for the consequences, you get that?"

"Oh, he was in the car?" Isaac replied with feigned shock, a sly grin playing on his intoxicated features. "I didn't know that, my bad, sorry."

He chuckled. Yeah, he was drunk.

"You seem to forget that I have your precious heir held captive," I hissed, my tone dripping with venom, the threat almost convincing, "I've told you, you hurt one of mine, I'll start doing the same to him," I added, emphasizing the gravity of my words. "I hope you'll sleep well tonight, knowing that I smashed his head into a glass, just as you did."

A chuckle vibrated from his chest and he threw his head backward, "Oh god, Nikolas," He said, trying to recover from his laugh, "Oh wow, you really had me there for a second," He added, his reaction confusing me slightly, "You want me to believe that you will hurt little cute Nathan," He gave me a fake pout, "Your soft soft heart won't do that, how would you?" He added, "When would you it, exactly? When you play your daily chess match with him? Or when you so kindly take him out for a basketball game? Or when you arrange for him to meet up with new friends?"

His words had all of my thoughts halt, taken aback by the details he knew. He can't know this much. How could this be possible?

"Admit it, son, you have become so fond of him, you wouldn't hurt him," He added, so sure.

He let out another chuckle, "How would you hurt him when you are the one who nursed his wounds," He added, aware of everything, almost like he was there, following every move of mine, "You have become so damn soft, it is almost laughable," He added, his eyebrow raised in utter amusement, "But it all works so well on my side because it makes it so much easier to stab you in the back, huh."

My fingers loosened from over him, slightly edging backward as I tried to fucking understand. A sardonic smirk crept onto the corner of his lips, a stark departure from his usual composed and controlling demeanor as he manipulated my life like a puppeteer. This time, though, his countenance bore the mark of madness – the look of someone who had lost everything, unhinged, someone terrified of imminent defeat.

"You think I would go out without a fight, Nikolas?" He taunted, "One last fight, right," His smile slowly faded away, getting replaced by the madman I know, "Till my very last breath, I will continue to do this, I will not stop, I will keep taking from you like your fucking mother took everything from me!"

There was the anger, creeping behind the surface and ruining his facade, the redness of his rage painting the skin of his neck and face and I grated out, "She took everything from you?" I asked, grasping at the edge of control, my fingers so tight over my gun, "You are the one who took everything from her!"

"She deserved it, and you...you will keep paying for her mistakes," He added, exposing the rotten fucked-up person he had always been, "Because you are just like her, inside out, you are a mocking reminder of her, and of my failure. And you will continue to pay; Nikolas, I promise you, this doesn't end here."

I shook my head, "No, believe me, it doesn't," I grated out, "This ends on the day I rip your heart out in front of all these people," I added, looking around at his loyal dogs, "Count your days, father, it's coming soon."

He smiled, leaning back against the wall, "What will you do? Catch and tie me up like you did to Joseph?" He remarked, only exposing that he knew every fucking thing I do, "It almost brought me to tears, how you handed him to Ronald, helping him avenge his mother," He gave me a fake caring look, pressing his palm over his chest in an affectionate manner, "Thank you for that," He said with appreciation, "I was slowly torturing Joseph over the years, stealing his power, his reputation, his money, and his everything," He added, "And you did me a favor, by making his very own nephew kill him, impressive, right?"

I scoffed, "You're just so bitter, aren't you," I said with mockery, "So bitter because Maria couldn't love you, is that the whole story, dear father?" I added, "Is that why you are so fucked up? Because one woman could not reciprocate your love?"

"Isn't that so pathetic?" I added.

He smiled, "Who told you that she didn't?" He said, his eyebrow raising, "You only know half the story, Nikolas," He shook his head, smiling still, "You don't know anything."

"But I advise you to be careful of what you say, because karma is a bitch, son," He said with fake worry, "Those words might come and bite you back."

My jaw tightened and I chose to ignore him and his taunting words, refusing to fall into his trap. His men lowered their guns down when they saw me step backward, ready to leave. This is not how I planned it. Only after I make sure he has lost everything I will end him once and for all.

"Tell my precious boy that I said hi," He said mockingly as I whirled around and headed out, one thought only swirling through my head and threatening my sanity.

*****************

I was seated behind my desk, Jeremy beside me going through our network, searching for the bug that I knew Isaac had implanted there somewhere when the sound of hurried footsteps caught my attention. My eyes lifted to see Natalie pausing by my office's door, her eyes wide with concern and worry etched every corner of her face.

She strode closer toward me, "Ronald told me what happened," She released her purse and reached my side, her hands gently resting on my face, "Are you okay?" She asked, her gaze flickering all over me.

I nodded my head, "I am," I said and she smoothed her hand over my hair, "Alex and Lilly were in the car?" She asked, her voice choked at the haunting specter of what could have happened.

I nodded, "But they're fine," I said and she let out a low breath before her arms wrapped around my neck, "Why didn't you call me right away?" She whispered.

"I didn't want to ruin your night," I mumbled and she pulled back, shaking her head, "Don't say that, god, I got so worried," she whispered, genuine distress creasing her forehead, "Lilly was in the car for god's sake," She took a deep breath, shaking her head in an attempt to dispel negative thoughts, "I am just glad you are all okay," She added, her tone anguished as she dropped a soft kiss over my head.

My hand found hers, giving it a small reassuring squeeze, my fingers randomly moved over her bracelet, the one adorned with trinkets and little charms. She wore it all the time, and it clearly held a sentimental value of some kind. My gaze shifted from our intertwined hands to the door, as Ronald, Emma, and Roman entered. I had called them for an impromptu meeting.

"Close the door behind you," I instructed Ronald, and he sealed the door shut before turning his full attention to me.

"What's wrong?" Natalie inquired with concern. I shook my head slightly, assuring her, and motioned for everyone to take a seat. Once they were all settled, I began to explain, "I've gathered you all here because, quite frankly, you're the only ones that I trust in here."

I shifted my gaze from Emma, to Roman, to Ronald, to Natalie, and finally to Jeremy.

"You are the ones who've witnessed everything that goes around here," I added and Emma's eyebrows pulled closer, detecting my serious tone and sensing something was not right, "And I believe that we have a mole among us," I added and suddenly, all eyes darted to Ronald, who seemed taken aback by the unexpected scrutiny.

His eyes widened, "What the hell?" He shot out, scooting away from Emma as she narrowed her eyes at him suspiciously, "Nikolas, say something," He urged me, offended by the unwarranted suspicion.

"It's not Ronald, alright," I said, sure of the part for some fucked up reason, "It's not one of us," I added, my instincts working overtime as it tried to detect any shift in their body language, "It's one of the guys, I am just not sure which one.  That's why I need your help," I elaborated, "Jeremy is investigating whether Isaac has managed to hack into our system,  but I believe it's a tad more than just that. Someone has been reporting back to Isaac—everything that happens here, everything we've discussed. We need to figure this out, and we need to do it quickly."

Emma nodded her head in agreement, already up on her feet, "I have a talent for scaring people off," She pointed out as she tugged at Roman's sleeves, pulling him along, "Give me an hour and I will find out who it is," Roman followed her and I heard her question as they left the room, "Where is my other big knife?"

Ronald seemed to be thinking of something before his eyes settled on Jeremy, they narrowed, "Is it you, Jeremy? Confess."

I rolled my eyes at him and Jeremy shot out, "Hey!" He said, "Nikolas knows me, I would never."

Jeremy's eyebrow raised, "Maybe it is you, Ronald?"

"You're never with us on the field, you are always behind your laptop, it could be really you-"

I shot Ronald a glare, "Jeremy is my right hand, he would never," My words had Jeremy break into the most idiotic smile, "See, I am his right-hand man."

Ronald scoffed, "I am his best buddy, try and beat that."

I faceplamed, groaning lowly, "You two kids just get out of here, my head is already hurting enough."

They both obeyed and headed outside, still arguing about who I liked most among them. Kids, literal kids.

Natalie's gaze flickered from them to me, shaking her head at their silliness. She edged closer and rested her hand over my arm, "I am gonna go check on Nathan," She said, "Then, I will come back and you can tell me all about what happened, okay?"

I nodded my head and she tiptoed, softly pecking my lips before she turned around and left me alone to my torturous thoughts.

I took a deep breath and slumped into the chair, attempting to evade that relentless thought that loomed over my sanity but there was no escape. I was in too deep. I extended my clenched fist onto the desk and released its contents, allowing it to tumble onto the surface. My eyes locked on the small, seemingly insignificant item. Yet, it held far more significance than I'd ever imagined – one of the charms from her bracelet. A delicate silver charm shaped like a piano with a musical note.

I found it in my car, which in itself isn't suspicious. Natalie has been in my car countless times. It's just the location where I discovered it that's bothering me. Right next to the brakes.

I shook my head and propped my elbows over the table, placing my throbbing head into my hands, the headache surging through me felt like it could tear my skull apart. Think, Nikolas. Think of logic. Think of things that make sense. Turn off that stupid irrational heart and think with your mind.

I lifted the metaphorical goggles that had been obscuring my vision and attempted to see beneath the surface.

Words and situations from earlier flooded my mind, eclipsing rational thoughts and overriding my brain.

I hate how my life became after you came into it.

Leave me alone, I don't believe a word that comes out of you.

Her words from before started to ring in my head again.

Her negative attitude toward me back then. How she kept running and pushing me away. The way my mere presence almost repulsed her. The fact that she knew about Nathan's existence before I even told her. How she never mentioned a thing of her conversation with Alex about Max. How she showed no reaction to Lilly calling me dad. How she told me that she was scared of me when she was drunk.

How she knew about my mother's death...The thought suddenly came, something I never dwelled over before. I was too absorbed in my trauma to care or question it. But really, how did she know?

It wasn't Ronald, he was as shocked as me back then when she suddenly showed up at the funeral.

I pulled out my phone and dialed Alex instantly. He answered after the second ring and I immediately shot out, "Alex, I have a question," I said and he seemed taken aback by my forwardness, "Uh, okay, what?"

"Were you the one to tell Natalie about our mother's death?" I asked.

"What?" He asked, confused, "No, why would I?" He asked, "It's not like I was in a normal state of mind back then to actually call or tell anyone."

My throat burned and I rested my palm over my forehead, "Okay," I mumbled.

"Did something happen?"

"I will tell you later," I said before I hung up, unable to wrap my mind over anything.

I leaned back into my seat, I started to see double for every situation that ever happened before. The way Isaac knows everything. My drugs that were exchanged. The brakes that were working just fine before the dinner...I couldn't think. Fuck, I couldn't breathe.

My gaze was on the little charm lying over my desk. The one missing from her bracelet. I checked it when she was here just now. This belongs to her for sure. Fuck, she was the only one to keep silent when I discussed the topic of the mole. She didn't even comment on it. Not at all.

It makes it so much easier to stab you in the back...Isaac's words from before. Karma is a bitch, son, those words might come and bite you back. He was sending me an underlying message.

My gaze stayed over my desk, my eyebrows pulled closer when I recalled, not so long ago when Natalie was knelt down below it, searching for her earrings. My throat bobbed heavily, my heart speeding off a sprint, the scenario playing in my head was too dark and ready to push me off the cliff of sanity. I wouldn't believe in anything or anyone anymore if my thoughts paid outright.

I moved from my chair, bending down, I opened my phone and turned the flashlight on, lowering myself under the desk, using the phone to illuminate my narrow surroundings, pointing it under the surface of my desk and looking for...something.

I froze, my body malfunctioned and I couldn't fathom a single thought after. In the tempest of this revelation, I felt as if the world itself had crumbled, its fragments a storm of piercing shards, shredding the very essence of my being.

I reached for the small piece, a little rectangular microchip, attached to the undersurface of the desk through a magnet. I tore it away, pulling back and getting up as I watched the thing in my hand. It had a matte finish, designed to be inconspicuous and blend in with the desk's surface. I wasn't clueless though. I knew exactly what this chip was. I've used many like it back in the day. I knew how it encompassed a powerful microphone, wireless transmitters, and a possible location tracker.

I shook my head in disbelief. Up till this point, I fought so hard against my logic. Up till this, I was sure that I was overreacting, overanalyzing, that she would never do that to me, but...

The knowledge that she...my delicate girl, that she had been a puppeteer in this malevolent theater, sharing my secrets with the one who wished me harm, pierced my soul with a dagger dipped in treachery.

I felt dizzy, like the whole world around me was spinning out of control but before I could have the chance to register any of this, the door to my office opened and Natalie tumbled in, all clueless and unaware, "I forgot my purse in here," She commented with a small smile but my out of sorts expression was enough to stop her dead in her tracks.

Her eyebrows pulled closer, her head tilted to the side with worry...fake worry, "Nik, is everything okay?"

I could use this to my advantage, I could use this as a way to rebel against Isaac, to feed him all the wrong information. It's a great opportunity presented by itself but I...can't. The fighter in me wasn't thinking now. He got lost somewhere. The broken man who had surrendered his heart to her, he was the one standing but also slowly deteriorating under the weight of her betrayal.

Her smile, once a beacon of solace, now bore the weight of deceit, an insincere crescent in the sky of my heart. The kisses we'd shared, sweet poetry etched in time, now tasted bitter, akin to the venomous kiss of a serpent.

The glass of reality shattered all around me, its shard piercing deep down and I felt myself bleeding.

"It was you," I whispered, stepping forward and coming up from behind my desk, "It was you all along," I couldn't breathe. I couldn't...I just didn't understand. I couldn't understand. How could she?

My words tightened the frown between her eyebrows and the fear, I saw it, lurking at the corner of her eyes, fear of me, fear that her lies and act were all out in the open, "The mole, it's you."

My word stole all the color from her face. She paled and the force of my knowledge pushed her a couple of steps backward. I extended my hand, showing her the chip she had implanted on my desk. I let it drop to the floor, and her gaze followed its movement, her chest heaving, her hand on the side trembling, she curled it into a fist, wincing slightly when I stepped over the chip, crushing it under my shoes.

With hesitation, she lifted her gaze up, her eyes falling on me, her voice barely making it out as she tried to call for me, her lower lip slightly trembling, "Nikolas-"

I shook my head and raised my hand up, shutting her, "No, no," I said, feeling the switch in my head flip off, the one I used to suppress the monster away, I willingly ripped it apart, "You don't get to speak now."

My every trust had been anchored in her, and she had wielded my trust like a dagger in the dark. Each memory, once painted in vivid hues of love and warmth, now appeared as nothing but a cruel mirage, a vivid illusion that had held me in thrall.

She slowly edged back, trying to escape away from me because she could see the madness surge through my gaze. She knew me and now she saw how I wasn't thinking clearly. That I didn't want to think clearly. I just wanted to ruin everything in my wake, including her. I wanted to rip something apart like she just did to my very very weak heart...

When I noticed her attempt to escape, I strode forward. Her eyes widened, sensing my intentions and she reached for the door, her mouth opening to call for Ronald but I was faster, my palm harshly landed on the door, slamming it shut, and the thud sound reverberated back with a very loud echo that had her cower away, wincing at the sound and at the possible outcomes.

With my palm up against the door, Natalie pushed herself further into the wall, hiding herself away but with my current position, I had her trapped. I wanted to trap her, to lock her away till I fucking understand all of this.

I heard the hitch in each breath she took, I saw the fear swirl into the wetness swarming those blue eyes, her fingers on the side trembling and my irrational heart squeezed so fucking tight. My stupid heart wanted to wrap her up because she seemed to be scared of...me. She believed that I could cause her harm.

Her lips parted, "Please, let me explain," She whispered, her voice strained and tight, choked with heavy emotions.

"Explain what," I whispered, "I trusted you, Natalie," I looked down at her, trapped between me and the wall, our faces separated by a few millimeters. I could read every little expression on her face, the lines of fear and terror tightening and the wounds of her betrayal festered within, raw and agonizing.

"I fucking trusted you!" I grated out, my voice retching higher because I couldn't understand, I wanted to scream and bellow into this fucked up world, "And what did you do in return?" I asked, my words triggering a tear to push past the threshold and drip down her cheek, "You were helping Isaac," I stated and she pressed her eyes shut as to hide away from her own truth, "You told him everything, you were letting him listen and spy at us," I added, "You switched my drugs, didn't you," I recalled back that day and every tormented second I went through, how I was losing my fucking mind, and she had the key in her little innocent hands.

She didn't deny anything. It was her.

It was her...

"You are the one who messed with the brakes, didn't you," I asked, hoping and wishing she would deny it, that I was just seeing it all in the wrong way, that I was wrong and she was right. God, I wanted to be wrong, "Answer me!" I bellowed when she kept silent, the harshness of my voice had her wince again, prying her eyes open and refusing to face me, "Lilly was in the car, Natalie, a little kid was in that car, how could you?!"

She shook her head, finally speaking, "I didn't know," She hiccupped a sob, "I swear I didn't know she would be there-"

It was her.

"How could you," I asked again, unable to wrap my mind around it, I will never be able to, "I was so fucking scared of hurting you, all this time, I was so scared, walking on eggshells, terrified of hurting you, that-" I shook my head, "That it never crossed my mind how you could be the one to hurt me."

She finally lifted her broken gaze up to me, her tears a mess as they fell through and covered her face. I thought she was my light, but now, as the truth unraveled, I find myself adrift in a sea of doubt. Betrayal gnaws at my core, each shard of it piercing deeper than the last. She, who I believed was my salvation, now stands accused of my potential destruction.

In the depths of my soul, love, and doubt wage an agonizing battle. I thought she was my light, but now I'm left wondering if she was, in fact, the darkest shadow cast upon my heart.

"What have I ever done to you?" I asked; the broken words fighting through my burning throat. I felt like I could crumble down by her feet. She held so much power over me. I gave her that power, and she used it against me in the worst way possible.

"Natalie, say something, answer me for god's sake!" I snapped, unable to handle her silence, and her defeat. I want her to defend herself, to push me away, to refuse every accusation. I want, I want...

"Tell me, did you do it?" I asked once more, giving her the opportunity to deny everything, "Were you working behind my back and helping Isaac all this time?"

The back of her head pressed into the wall, wishing it could just consume her away from me and my rage. Her lower lip trembled and she pulled it under her teeth, she nodded her head, ever so helplessly, her simple gesture throwing me into the darkest abyss.

A hurricane of anger, an inferno of betrayal, it devoured all of me, leaving only ashes. The thought of Lilly's tears, of Alex's wound, of the blood seeping down his face. The memory of my unhinged behavior, of hurting Ronald, of hurting Alex and even her when she was the one to inject the fucking drug in me. It all accumulated, it all tore at my trembling nerves, and Natalie tried to move away, to free herself from my trap but my hand harshly curled over her hand, pushing her back.

"Please let me go," She whispered, her eyes falling at my harsh grip on her. She kept her gaze cast down and she whispered, "I don't want to hurt you, Nikolas-"

I chuckled dryly, "Really?" I scoffed, "And till now, what else were you doing, Natalie?"

She paused, thinking, before the hurtful words tore up her throat and pierced into one of my heart's broken shreds, "It's not like you didn't deserve it."

I thought she wouldn't cause me more harm, but look at her, ever so easily tearing me apart at the seams. The emotions boiled up till they burned and scorched me from the inside. My anger became a relentless beast, it tore at the fragile tapestry of my sanity, "I should kill you," I whispered and before I could let the monster in me tear her apart, I focused my anger somewhere else, groaning loudly as I slammed my fist on the wall by her face, hard enough to tear up my skin.

She gasped at the impact, cowering away but I didn't stop, "I should kill you," I snapped, the world blurring as my vision reddened, the searing fire devouring the fragments of my irrational mind, "I fucking wish I had it in me to do it."

I should.

Anyone else; I would've killed without much of a thought.

I wish I was strong enough to fucking do it. Ruin her like she is ruining me.

"Explain," I grated out, my jaw tightened as I searched for my lost breath, "Tell me what Isaac wanted, what more does he want and what else is he planning," I said and she shook her head, "I don't know," She whispered.

"I am already losing my mind, Natalie, don't test me," I grated out, "Don't test the lengths I could cross to hurt you now, explain everything."

She shook her head again, "I told you," Her voice shook slightly, "I don't know."

Her denial ticked me off and my voice raised, "Fucking answer me, Natalie, or else—"

"Or else what?" She shot back, her tone harsh now and she lifted her eyes up, finally looking me deep in the eyes, her jaw tightening as the tears slipped through, "Or else what? You'll rape me like you did to her?"

This was my breaking point.

My eyes grew wide and I broke away from her. Her words, her knowledge had me stagger backward and away from her, breaking contact and building distance. The shock wrapped up with the hurt and I didn't know if I could handle anything anymore.

My lips parted to speak, but I couldn't.

What was I supposed to say?

What could I say?

I couldn't speak, I couldn't think nor breathe. I needed to get out of here. Now. I needed to be away from her. Far away.

I moved to the door and I saw her ready to get out of here as well. I turned around and shook my head, "You are not going anywhere."

Her eyes grew wide, "You will keep me in here?" She asked in shock, like she didn't just break me apart.

"Till I figure what I am going to do with you, yeah," I said, my voice losing all of its anger and rage, "I can't risk you getting back to Isaac," I added, coldly before I opened the door and ushered for two of my men to get closer.

"You will keep an eye on her and you will not let her leave this room, ever," I ordered, the harshness in my tone had their eyes widen, my voice loud enough for Natalie to hear it as well, "And if she tries to escape, you do anything and everything to stop her," I added and they stayed silent, shocked at my request so I added, "Do you understand?!"

"Yes, sir," They said in unison and I stepped outside, slamming the door shut, leaving a very stunned Natalie behind.

I paused by their side, "If you touch a strand of her hair, I will kill you both," I said, my threat wide clear.

Their eyes widened, "But, sir-"

"You heard me," I grated out.

"What if she tries to leave," He questioned, gulping down at my two contradictive orders.

I nodded my head, I had no ounce of fight left in me, "Then, you let her leave."

***********************************

Hey!

So, what's your thoughts? xD

What's your theories? How and why did Natalie do this?
What would Nik? How will he deal with all of this?
What do you expect to happen next?
Give me all your thoughts and opinions! xD

I was gonna write more but the chapter got lengthy so fast. So, Emma & Roman's scene will be in next chapter.
The drama will continue in the next chapter, so, buckle your seatbelts and het ready xD

A little teaser for next chapter ;)

I stared at the gun wrapped between Natalie's delicate shaky little fingers and pointed at me, "Get back!" She shot out, her voice shaking, the tears swarming her broken eyes, the hurt in them reflecting off the one in mine.

My men surrounded us, taking positions and aiming their guns at her, sensing I was in danger and ready to defend me. Fury started to build within me as I glared at them, "If you don't lower your guns and get out of here, I will fucking kill you all!"

"But, sir-"

"Get out!" I bellowed at them before I faced her again.

I couldn't fathom the image ahead of me, if felt so contradictive for her innocent white hands to wield such a dark weapon. It's only then that I realized how I was fully responsible for this. For everything. I did this to her. I changed her. I succeeded in breaking her alongside me.

See ya soon! ♥️