Chapter 12 - THE NIGHT DECLAN ALMOST LOST HER
The investigation into Victor's former associates uncovered a plan to pressure witnesses connected to the shipping case.
Kalantha and Julian were among the people potentially at risk.
Declan worked with attorneys and law enforcement to protect them.
He shared information.
Cooperated with investigators.
And made sure Kalantha knew what was happening.
One evening, Kalantha received a threatening message.
It contained a photograph of her apartment building.
Her stomach tightened.
She called Declan.
He answered immediately.
“Kalantha?”
Her voice trembled.
“Someone knows where I live.”
Declan went still.
“Are you safe?”
“I'm inside.”
“Lock the door and call emergency services. I'm contacting the building's security.”
Kalantha followed the instructions.
Police arrived.
The building's cameras were reviewed.
And investigators began tracing the message.
Declan arrived after the officers had secured the scene.
He found Kalantha sitting on the sofa.
She looked pale.
He stopped in the doorway.
“Can I come in?”
She nodded.
He sat beside her.
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then Kalantha whispered:
“I was scared.”
Declan looked at her.
“I know.”
She swallowed.
“I thought someone was going to come through the door.”
His expression tightened.
He reached toward her hand.
Stopped.
She took it.
Declan closed his eyes.
“I hate that you're in danger,” he whispered.
Kalantha looked at him.
“I know.”
He swallowed.
“I want to protect you.”
She nodded.
“But?”
He smiled sadly.
“But I know I can't protect you by taking away your life.”
Kalantha leaned against him.
For a long time, they sat together.
And Declan realized something.
May you like
Love wasn't the ability to control every danger.
It was the willingness to stand beside someone even when you couldn't control the outcome.
