Chapter 32: The Dark Side, Part 2

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At the station

Wesley and Lucy found a moment of solitude in the break room, away from Rosalind's suffocating presence. As Wesley poured himself some coffee, Lucy walked over, her concern evident. She gently kissed his cheek and asked, "Are you okay?"

Wesley nodded, though the weariness in his eyes told a different story. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just... I never thought I'd have to see Rosalind again."

Lucy offered him a reassuring smile. "It's going to be okay."

Wesley pulled out his phone, his thoughts drifting elsewhere. As he scrolled through his contacts, Lucy noticed and asked, "What are you doing?"

"I was thinking of calling Melissa to check on the twins," Wesley replied. "Maybe FaceTime them, just to see their faces."

Lucy studied him briefly, then said, "Hanging out with Rosalind has really messed with your head, hasn't it?"

Wesley sighed, nodding slowly. "She knows how to get in my head, honey. It's like she's always one step ahead. What else can I do?"

Lucy placed a comforting hand on Wesley's arm, her eyes full of understanding. "You're doing what you can, Wes. That's all anyone can ask of you."

Wesley looked at her, grateful for the support. "I just hate that she still has this kind of power over me. After everything, I should be past it."

"She's a master manipulator," Lucy said gently. "She knows exactly how to push your buttons because she's been studying you for years. But you're stronger than her, Wesley. You have to remember that."

Wesley nodded, but his expression remained troubled. "I know, but it's hard to shake. Every time I think I'm free of her, she finds a way to pull me back in. It's like she enjoys seeing me struggle."

Lucy's grip on his arm tightened slightly as if to anchor him. "Then don't give her the satisfaction. You're here, doing your job, protecting people—protecting us. That's what matters. Not whatever twisted game she's trying to play."

Wesley took a deep breath, her words sinking in. "You're right. I can't let her get to me. Not when I have so much more to fight for now."

Lucy smiled, her eyes softening as she saw him start to regain his composure. "Exactly. And if you ever need to talk or just vent, I'm here. You're not alone in this."

Wesley smiled back, the tension in his shoulders easing a bit. "Thanks, Lucy. I don't know what I'd do without you."

"You'll never have to find out," she replied, leaning in to kiss him softly. "Now, let's check on the twins and remind yourself of what's really important."

Wesley nodded, grateful for the grounding moment. He dialed Melissa's number and waited, the phone ringing in his ear. As the call connected and the familiar faces of his children appeared on the screen, he felt a wave of calm wash over him. At that moment, surrounded by Lucy's unwavering support and the innocent smiles of his children, Wesley knew he could face whatever came next—even if it meant confronting the darkest parts of his past.

Later

In Grey's office

Wesley stepped into Grey's office, his gaze sweeping the room as he noticed Lopez, Harper, Nick, and John already gathered there. He made his way over to John, offering a fist bump. "Hey, man," Wesley greeted.

John grinned, responding, "Hey, Wes. Or should I say, Mike?"

Wesley chuckled, but there was a nervous edge to it. Grey, ever perceptive, caught on and remarked, "You don't seem like yourself, Michael."

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