Chapter 11 - The Blood Price
We made it back to the estate, the SUV battered and smoking. The gates locked behind us, and the compound went into immediate lockdown.
I sat in the parlor with Leo, my hands shaking violently. Leo was crying, burying his face in my chest.
“Is Papa coming back?” he sobbed.
“Yes,” I lied, praying to God it was the truth. “Your papa is the strongest man in the world.”
Two hours passed in agonizing silence. Then, the heavy front doors opened.
Marcus walked in, supporting Julian. Julian was covered in blood, his bespoke suit shredded. He was clutching his left side, his face pale, but his eyes were blazing with victory.
I abandoned all propriety, sprinting across the foyer and throwing my arms around his neck.
Julian grunted in pain but wrapped his arms tightly around my waist, burying his face in my neck. “I’m okay,” he whispered. “I’m okay, Maya.”
He had taken a bullet to the ribs, but he had survived. The New York hit squad was dead.
That night, after the estate doctor patched him up, I sat by Julian’s bed. He was propped up on pillows, looking exhausted.
“They know I’m not weak now,” Julian said softly, holding my hand. “The message has been sent. Boston is secure.”
“You could have died,” I whispered, tears spilling over my cheeks. “You left the car.”
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“I would die a thousand times to keep you and Leo safe,” Julian reached up, wiping my tears. “I didn't know what it felt like to have a family to protect until you walked into my library, Maya.”
I leaned down, pressing my lips to his. It wasn't a hesitant kiss. It was desperate, fierce, and sealing my own vow. I wasn't just surviving anymore. I was choosing him.
