Page 141 of Shades of Loyalty
Because although Hayden’s face stays cold, I know him just good enough to know it’s not true. He’s always like this, his face sharp, trying not to act like he’s affected. Even the first time we met, he did the same.
However, the second my gaze hits Julian? My God. This guy isdone. Pure shock spreads all over his face, and if I wouldn’t know better, I’d think he’s Vittorio’s son.
I mean, technically… He is. Sort of. Vittorio has always been like a father to him, according to all the things Daniel told me.
It’s why Daniel slowly but surely is starting to get close to Julian. Because although Daniel, Andrew and Vicky are Lilia’s and Vittorio’s children by blood, they’ve taken care of Julian since he was a child.
Daniel and Julian have never liked each other ever since. But I think they’re old enough now to realize that in these times, being loyal to each other is more important than whatever childish grudge that both of them have been holding ever since the day Vittorio saved Julian.
“We should head home soon,” Hayden cuts through the silence.
And while others would see him as an asshole for interrupting this moment, all of us know he’s right.
We should leave as soon as possible, so no other accidents happen.
“Right,” Daniel responds, getting up. His knees almost give out, but before he falls back down, I make sure to hold him. He flashes me with a thankful smile before looking at Hayden for help.
It’s obvious that we need to take Vittorio with us. But judging by Julian’s traumatized expression, I don’t think he’s going to be of any help.
So, instead of complaining, I help Hayden carry Vittorio’s now limp body all the way back to the vehicle.
“Hayden?” I whisper after we close the door of the car. He looks at me, a small hint of remorse in his expression.
“Something wrong?” he asks.
I sigh. “How do you manage to stay sane after seeing all those… dead bodies?”
His expression immediately shifts to guilt. “Jennifer, you… You didn’t have to be here. Just say the word, and Daniel will never include you in any of this again. He can find someone else to take care of medical emergencies if you’re having trouble with this.”
I shake my head. “I don’t want to stop, just… I don’t know how to deal with all of this.”
“Have you told Daniel?”
No. Not really, at least.
“I think he has enough on his plate already, Hayden.”
He scoffs in disbelief. “Of course he fucking does. But he loves you. He’d do anything for you. Even if he’s feeling like shit. You know that, don’t you?”
I gulp. Hayden’s right.
Still, I don’t want to give him one more thing to worry about.
He’s in enough pain already.
Chapter Fifty-two
Daniel
My eyes focus on the shooting target in front of me. I hate that we’re at this point. At this low point. But I have to do what a caring boyfriend should do at this point—teach Jennifer how to shoot.
Because as much protection as I give her, I’m worried it might not be enough. Just 48 hours ago, my father died, and my mind has been racing ever since.
It could’ve been the Mexicans, yes. But I truly feel like it wasn’t them. Julian mentioned how maybe, just maybe, they would’ve known we were coming—but why’d they shoot?
They were inourterritory. Besides, why the fuck wouldtheystart a war? They never did. We’ve never been enemies.
Though, we’ve never been allies, either. But the Mexicans have been allies with the Russians.
