Unmasking The Mafia

Chapter 8

The train ride to London is a calm and peaceful journey, the rhythm of the tracks lulling you both into a sense of tranquility.

William sits beside you, his gaze distant as he gazes out the window. There's a hint of something in his eyes, an unspoken thought or worry, but he doesn't speak.

As the scenery passes by, the city of London greets you, its towering buildings and familiar landmarks beckoning you into its embrace. William's grip on your hand tightens ever so slightly as the train comes to a stop.

You get off the train with William and you're about to take a step forward when you feel a sudden impact against your leg, and as you look down, you see your little brother, his small arms wrapped around your legs in a tight embrace. A gasp escapes your lips in surprise, your eyes widening comically.

William, taken aback, looks down at the sight of your young brother, a mix of surprise and amusement in his gaze. He can't help but chuckle softly at the sight and the innocent exuberance of the child.

You pull your brother into your arms and give him a quick kiss on the cheek.

William watches the tender exchange between you and your brother, his heart warmed by the sight of your love for your family.

A soft smile tugs at the corners of his lips as he sees the joy and affection on your face.

"Looks like you have quite the welcoming committee," he teases lightly, referring to your brother clinging to you like a little octopus.

"He's always been like this."

William chuckles, his amusement at your brother's behavior gradually fading as his gaze flicks around them. There's a subtle change in his eyes, a shift in his demeanor as his senses go on high alert.

He steps closer to you subtly, his hand instinctively moving closer to his pocket. It's as if he senses something... or someone nearby.

You see his reaction and frown.

"What?"

William's eyes remain fixed, scanning the crowd of people moving around you both. He seems tense, his body almost primed for action.

"Maybe it's nothing," he mutters quietly, more to himself than to you. Despite his casual words, his guard is clearly up, his instincts telling him something's off.

He glances at you, a flicker of worry and concern in his eyes.

"Let's head out of here" he suggests, gently taking your hand and leading you both away from the crowded station.

You stop.

"No. I've got my little brother in my arms, which means my parents are here. I am not leaving my brother alone until he's with my parents."

William turns back to you, his eyes narrowing slightly at your firm tone. There's a flicker of frustration in his gaze, as if he's not used to being contradicted.

But then he relents, his expression softening as he takes in the sight of your brother secure in your arms.

"Fine," he concedes, the hint of tension in his voice replaced by a quiet determination.

"Lead the way."

You turn to your brother who is still in your arms.

"Where's mom and dad?"

Your brother, who was giggling and playing with the buttons on your jacket, looks up at you as you ask him the question.

"They're over there!" he exclaims cheerfully, pointing toward a nearby bench where your parents are sitting, seemingly unaware of the subtle exchange that just took place.