As I settled into my thoughts later, I found myself unable to shake off the image of Elara. Her lips, impossibly tempting; that fitted dress hugging her curves in a way that made my pulse quicken. It was a distraction I couldn't ignore.
I didn't mean to let things escalate the way they did. I can't even pinpoint what overcame me; Damon and I are good friends, and he's always been my steadfast ally on our hunts. Unlike his brothers, who seem perpetually absorbed in their father's business, there are days I find myself wishing Damon were my brother instead.
I really should reach out to apologize.
Suddenly, my phone interrupted my thoughts.
"Ring, ring."
"Hello, Mum?"
"Hello, hunny… umm, your father wants to talk to you."
"Jared?"
I could feel the weight of his words. "I heard about your face. Was it the Silent Orders?"
"No, Dad. It was just a misunderstanding with a friend."
"Hm, okay, son."
He hung up, and I let out a weary sigh. I quickly sent an apology to Damon, and to my relief, he replied with a casual, "It's cool, bro. I overreacted too." A smile crept onto my face when I read his message; then he sent, "Still on for 5:30?"
"Yeah," I replied.
Damon was the only one among his brothers aware of my family's secret—that my father is a powerful mafia leader and I am his heir, the sole heir. In truth, Damon has always stood by my side, helping me fend off the relentless threats from rival factions, particularly those troublesome law breakers.
My father commands the second largest mafia in the country, and the mere mention of "the Crimsons" sends chills down many spines. The Silent Orders hold the top position but have kept their hands clean for years—until recently. Their patriarch fell ill and moved away with his wife and only son, leaving their adopted child in charge. And from what I've witnessed, that kid is nothing but trouble.
My appointment with Damon was set for an unusual purpose: we were heading out to confront some lawbreakers. While the situation didn't demand my presence, I knew that witnessing the chaos would serve as a much-needed distraction. Watching those reckless individuals get taken down would help clear my mind and untangle my thoughts. It was a chance to immerse myself in a world of adrenaline and action, where the complexities of my own life could momentarily fade away.
Feeling weary and eager to clear my mind, I scrolled through my phone before deciding to hit the gym. I needed to heal quickly, both my face and my thoughts.