The night was still, but inside Dylan's war room, it was anything but calm. Maps of the city glowed across digital screens, red markers pinpointing enemy movements. A detailed file on Richard lay open on the table—locations, patterns, known allies. Dylan's eyes scanned the documents with laser focus, but his mind kept drifting to Heaven's words: "Then stop pushing me away."
He didn't want to admit it, but her voice—her presence—was starting to drown out the rage inside him.
"Boss," Jayden said, entering with urgency. "We found it. Richard's main supply route. He's using an old mining tunnel beneath the eastern docks."
Dylan's eyes sharpened. "Seal it. Tonight."
Jayden hesitated. "That'll cut off more than just his supply. It'll trap at least twenty of his men. It'll be war, Dylan."
"It's already war," Dylan replied, rising. "But this time, I'm burning his empire to the ground."
---
RICHARD'S HIDEOUT – SAME NIGHT
Richard stood before a table covered in blueprints and weapon schematics. Elise stormed in, holding a tablet.
"They hit the east tunnel. It's gone."
Richard's fist slammed against the table. "He's faster than I expected."
Elise gave him a pointed look. "You're losing ground. Maybe it's time we take the girl."
"No," Richard growled. "We don't touch her until I say. She's the final piece. Not before."
"You're letting your obsession cloud your judgment," she said coldly.
Richard turned to her, smiling darkly. "And you're forgetting who holds your leash."
---
SAFEHOUSE – HEAVEN'S ROOM
Heaven stood by the window, watching the moonlight spill across the floor. Michael was finally asleep again, breathing steady and peaceful. She couldn't shake the tension in her chest—she felt trapped, like a bird in a cage with storm clouds gathering outside.
The door creaked open.
Dylan stepped in quietly, holding a tray with a bowl of warm soup.
"You should eat," he said gently, placing it on her nightstand.
She didn't turn around. "You can't keep me locked away forever."
Dylan sighed. "I know."
Heaven turned slowly. "Then let me help."
"No," he said, more firmly now. "The battlefield isn't for you."
"But I am part of this," she said, stepping closer. "You brought me into your world, Dylan. Now you don't get to decide when I matter and when I don't."
Dylan looked at her, caught between rage and awe. "Why do you always have to challenge me?"
"Because someone has to remind you that you're still human," she whispered.
For the first time, Dylan let his guard fall. Just a little. He reached out, brushing a strand of hair from her cheek. "I don't deserve you."
"No," she agreed, placing her hand over his. "But I'm still here."
Their eyes locked. No words needed.
But outside the walls of the safehouse, war drums were beating louder. Richard was preparing his next move—and this time, he wouldn't be subtle.