Fate's Final Act

-CH 17- Nightmare

MILA: IN HER HOUSE

My grandma gently took off Bella's leash, giving her a friendly ruffle behind the ears. Bella always loved it when Grandma petted her ears.

"Aw, poor Bella, I'm so glad you're finally back from the vet," she said, hugging Bella tightly. Bella jumped and barked happily, her tail wagging furiously.

I crouched down next to them, placing Bella's food plate on the floor. "Come on, Lily, it's time to eat," I said cheerfully, snapping my fingers to get her attention.

Bella immediately abandoned Grandma's hug and rushed to her food. Grandma pouted in mock disappointment.

"Huh? You chose food over me? What an ungrateful dog," she said, rolling her eyes and standing up.

I chuckled lightly. "You know how much she likes food, right?"

"Yeah," she replied, smiling softly as she continued to pet Bella's head while she ate.

But then her expression turned serious, and she looked at me with a stern gaze. I tensed up a bit; it was rare for Grandma to show such an expression.

"Why do you keep getting yourself into danger, Mila?" she asked, her voice tinged with worry.

I sighed, standing up and leaning against the kitchen counter. "It's not like I go looking for it. It just... finds me."

Grandma shook her head, her eyes filled with concern. "You've always been a magnet for trouble. But lately, it seems like things are getting worse. I am not a fool, and I do notice the bruises you've been getting lately, but I just chose to ignore it. That man you talked about... are you sure it was just a guy trying to steal your purse?"

I hesitated, not wanting to burden her with the details. "It was nothing. It's just a misunderstanding. Aiden was there, and he made sure I got home safe. Plus, I am 19, and I am not a kid anymore, you know?"

"A misunderstanding?" she repeated, her tone skeptical. "Mila, I saw the fear in your eyes when you came home. This isn't just about today, is it? There's more to it."

I bit my lip, feeling the weight of her words. She was right. It wasn't just about today. It was about everything, the threats, the danger that seemed to follow me like a shadow.

"It's complicated, Grandma. There are things happening that I can't explain. Things that scare me. But I think maybe it will stop for a while."

She stepped closer, her hand resting gently on my shoulder. "Mila, you don't have to face this alone. Whatever it is, we'll figure it out together. You're stronger than you think, but even the strongest need help sometimes."

Her words brought a lump to my throat. "Thank you. I just... I need to keep Bella safe. She's all I have left from Mom and Dad."

Grandma's eyes softened, and she pulled me into a hug. "We'll keep her safe. And we'll keep you safe too. Just promise me you'll be careful. Promise me you won't take unnecessary risks."

I nodded, feeling the warmth of her embrace. "I promise."

We stood there for a moment, the silence filled with unspoken fears and unbreakable bonds. Bella finished her meal and trotted over, nudging my leg with her nose.

Grandma smiled, the tension easing from her face. "Come on, let's get some tea and sit down. We can figure out what to do next together."

As we moved to the living room, there were a tone of questions swirling through my mind. Edward got scared away. But does that mean the threats will stop? And how did Aiden know I was in danger? Why did he even care?