New Beginning

Chapter 6

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There was something off about Blake's kisses—different from those I had shared with past lovers. Every time his lips met mine, Alex's name echoed in my mind. My heart raced. My chest tightened. What was wrong with me? Why was I crying?

Knock, Knock.

Who would knock at this hour—11:30 at night? Quickly wiping my tears, I stood.

"It's Alex."

My heart pounded wildly. What should I do?

"Hey, Juliana," he said.

Thump, Thump, Thump. If he stepped any closer, he would hear it.

"What are you doing here, Alex? It's late," I said, feigning sleepiness.

"I know I shouldn't wake you, but I had to come." His smile was soft, almost hesitant.

I felt heat rush to my face—I was blushing.

"I have something important to tell you. Can I come in?"

"Make it quick—I'm exhausted." My voice held a forced indifference.

"I'll make coffee while you explain what's so urgent," I said, heading to the kitchen.

"Have you watched the news tonight?" Alex asked.

"It's nearly midnight—who watches the news this late?" I responded.

"We're going on another mission—earlier than planned."

Crash.

Two cups shattered against the tile floor.

What!?

"We came here to grieve and move on. What aren't you telling me, Alex?" My voice trembled.

He shifted uneasily in his chair—nervous. That made me even angrier.

A minute passed. Silence.

Then, Alex broke it.

"Before I explain, turn on the TV," he said.

"Seriously? It's midnight. Do you think the news is still running?"

"Just turn it on—you'll see."

With a skeptical sigh, I grabbed the remote and pressed power.

To my astonishment, the news was still live.

"Is the situation that bad?" I asked.

Alex grinned.

Thump, Thump, Thump. That smile—why did it make my heart race?

"The news stays on late. You just don't pay attention to the world at night," he said with a smirk.

"But midnight? Are they even human?"

Alex chuckled. His laughter was deep, contagious.

I smiled, pleased that I could make him laugh.

"So, Mark, do you think the police will catch the mafia soon?" the female news reporter asked.

"I'm not sure anymore. It's been six months with no progress," Mark responded. "More young women are in danger every second."

His expression darkened.

Juliana felt his sorrow. Something personal is at play here.

"The government is allowing outsiders to assist in the search. Whoever brings in the mafia will receive two million dollars."

"Yes, please—anyone who can help, find Ava," Mark pleaded. "If you do, contact me. My number is below."

A picture of a young woman—18, maybe 20—filled the screen. She was stunning.

"Ava..." I whispered.

She was his daughter.