The Glossy Eyes

Chapter 42: Violence

Nathaniel stood in his apartment kitchen, the aroma of breakfast filling the air. He hummed to himself as he flipped pancakes on the stove, savoring the simple joy of cooking for someone he cared about. Alannah, still in the restroom, had no idea what awaited them.

Suddenly, a loud knock echoed through the apartment, causing Nathaniel to freeze. His instincts kicked in, and he cautiously approached the door, aware that unexpected visitors rarely brought good news. Before he could react, the door flew open with a force that sent him crashing back into the wall.

Nathaniel stood frozen, his heart pounding as he faced the enraged gang members who had barged into his apartment. He could feel the intensity of their anger radiating in the room, making the air thick with tension. One of the gang members stepped forward, his eyes filled with fury.

"If you keep getting distracted like this, no one will give you the benefit of doubt," he spat, his voice dripping with menace. "You'll be dead before you know it. Don't think your dead father can save you now."

Nathaniel's jaw clenched, his fists tightening at his sides. He knew the dangers that came with his association with the gang, but he had always tried to keep his personal life separate from their activities. Yet, it seemed that his recent distractions had drawn their attention and unleashed their anger upon him.

Alannah, who had been hidden and listening in the background, felt a wave of fear wash over her as she heard the gunshot. The sound reverberated through her, triggering painful memories of her parents' tragic fate. Her body trembled, and she felt a deep sense of vulnerability.

As Nathaniel's gaze met Alannah's fearful eyes in the room, his protective instincts surged within him. He swiftly moved toward the room shielding her, shielding her from any potential harm. Though his heart raced with adrenaline, he maintained a steely resolve, determined to keep her safe.

"We can talk about this, Rico" Nathaniel said firmly, his voice laced with a mix of authority and desperation. "There's no need for violence."

The gang members exchanged glances, their expressions hardened with defiance. However, something in Nathaniel's unwavering stance gave them pause. They hesitated, their aggression momentarily faltering.

"Fine," Rico finally conceded, his voice still laced with hostility. "But remember, you're playing a dangerous game, Nathaniel. Don't let it cost you everything."

With that, the gang members turned on their heels, exiting the apartment as abruptly as they had entered. The room fell into an eerie silence, the weight of the encounter still lingering in the air.

Alannah's heart raced, her breaths coming in quick, shallow gasps as the sound of the gunshot reverberated through her ears. It triggered an overwhelming rush of memories, her mind flashing back to the tragic day when she lost her parents. The trauma consumed her, and panic gripped her tightly, leaving her trembling and paralyzed with fear.

Nathaniel, realizing the impact the gunshot had on Alannah, immediately rushed to her side. He gently placed his hands on her shoulders, his touch firm yet reassuring.

"Alannah, it's okay. You're safe," Nathaniel whispered, his voice filled with genuine concern. "Take deep breaths with me, in and out. Focus on my voice."

His words slowly began to penetrate the haze of panic, and Alannah's trembling gradually subsided as she followed his guidance. She closed her eyes and concentrated on her breath, trying to regain control of her racing thoughts.

Nathaniel, understanding the importance of physical comfort in times of distress, pulled Alannah into a tender embrace. He held her tightly, providing a sense of security and warmth amidst the chaos that had unfolded.