Passion's Crossfire

Chapter 71

Mallory

The sun dips lower on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the lake. I sit on the deck, wrapped in the tranquility of nature surrounding me. The gentle lapping of the water against the shore and the rustle of leaves create a soothing symphony. As the world outside breathes with life, my thoughts drift to tomorrow—my birthday.

I wonder if Adam remembers. It's a quiet hope, tucked away in the corners of my mind. I turn, casting a glance through the window to the kitchen where Adam is immersed in his work. He's so cute when he's focused, his dark blue eyes fixed on the screen. The intensity of his concentration is endearing, and a fond smile tugs at the corners of my lips. I can't help but appreciate the way he throws himself into everything he does, especially when it comes to taking care of me.

A sigh escapes me, and I turn my gaze back to the lake. It doesn't matter if he forgets. After all, he's done so much for me—rescuing me from the nightmare, bringing me here, and creating a safe haven. The mere fact that I get to spend my birthday in this serene place is a gift in itself.

Glancing at my watch, I realize there's still plenty of time until Adam finishes his work for the day. I decide to use this time to catch up with Kylie. It's been too long since we talked, and the events of the past days have kept me occupied.

I grab my phone and tap Kylie's contact. The call rings for a moment before she excitedly answers.

"Mallory! How are you? I've been so worried!"

A small smile plays on my lips at her enthusiasm. "I'm okay, Kylie. Better now."

"I've missed you so much, Mallory. We need to catch up!" Kylie exclaims, her excitement palpable. "And we absolutely have to plan your birthday celebration. I've got so many ideas!"

"That would be great, but there's something you need to know. Adam and I are out of town, and... Matt posted bail."

Silence lingers on the other end, and then I hear Kylie's shocked voice, "What? Why would they let him go after what he did? He's a monster!"

I sigh, my gaze returning to the lake. "I don't know, Kylie. But as soon as Adam and I heard, we left town. We didn't want to take any chances."

"You made the right decision," she assures me. "Your safety comes first. If there's anything I can do, let me know."

The warmth of her concern eases the ache in my chest. "Thanks, Kylie. It means a lot. I just needed to hear a friendly voice."

"You can call me anytime, Mallory, you know that. Seriously, don't hesitate," Kylie says earnestly.

"Yeah, I know... Thank you, Kylie," I respond gratefully.

"I can't wait to hear what Adam has in store for your birthday! We'll catch up soon, okay? Stay safe."

Ending the call, I tuck my phone away and let my gaze drift across the lake. The serenity of the surroundings contrasts with the turmoil in my mind. It's a strange sensation, being simultaneously at peace and on edge.

As the sun begins its descent, casting a golden hue across the water, I find solace in the rhythm of the lake. It's a balm to my restless thoughts, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there are moments of quiet beauty. I close my eyes, absorbing the sounds and sensations around me, willing the worries to recede, at least for a little while.

The sliding door behind me opens, and I turn to see Adam stepping onto the deck. His eyes meet mine, and he offers a soft smile. "Hey, how are you holding up?"

"I'm okay," I reply, appreciating the genuine concern in his gaze.

He joins me on the deck, settling down beside me. "I was thinking we could take a walk by the lake. What do you think?"

The suggestion lifts my spirits. "That sounds perfect."

The air is crisp as Adam and I walk along the lake, hand in hand. The sun is making its final descent, casting hues of orange and pink across the water. I decide to break the silence. "How was your day?" I ask, looking up at Adam.

He sighs, a small smile playing on his lips. "It was okay, just the usual work stuff."

I nod, understanding the weight of what he's dealing with. "And how are you feeling?" he asks, his gaze tender.

"I'm good," I assure him. "I feel like I've fully regained my strength. The lake, the fresh air—it's helping."

Adam leads me to a secluded spot by the water and motions for me to sit. I settle down, and he sits beside me, wrapping an arm around my waist, pulling me close.

Suddenly, a thought strikes me. We never talked about his visit to his parents. "How did it go with your parents?" I ask cautiously.

Adam's demeanor shifts slightly, and he gazes out at the sunset. A heavy sigh escapes him before he begins. "My mother set up a brunch for me to get to know Eleanor Vanguard better."

I'm left speechless for a moment. "Eleanor Vanguard? The woman your mother wants you to marry?"

He nods, his jaw clenched. "I was on my way out the door when the Vanguards arrived. Logan had just called, telling me that you were missing." He pauses, his grip on me tightening. "My mother ambushed me."

My heart sinks at the revelation, and I instinctively cup his cheek, turning his face to mine. "Adam, that's messed up. What your mother is doing to you—it's not fair."

He sighs, leaning into my touch, and kisses the hand on his cheek. "I know," he admits, the weight of the situation evident in his eyes. "But I'll handle it. Right now, what matters is that we're here, together."

I nod, offering him a supportive smile. "And we'll face whatever comes our way, together."