EKON: BLOOD TIES

Chapter 3

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as Claire stepped into her favorite coffee shop, a cozy little place nestled on a quiet street corner in Manhattan. The soft hum of conversation mixed with the sounds of steaming milk and clinking mugs, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Claire felt a sense of comfort wash over her, a brief respite from the chaos of the past few days.

As she approached the counter, her eyes landed on a familiar face. Liz, her godmother, sat at a corner table, her brow furrowed in concern as she stared at her phone. Claire's heart swelled at the sight of her; it had been too long since they had seen each other, and she needed the warmth of Liz's presence now more than ever.

"Liz!" Claire called out, her voice brightening the air. Liz looked up, her expression shifting from worry to relief.

"Claire!" Liz stood up, her arms opening wide for an embrace. They shared a tight hug, and Claire could feel the weight of her godmother's concern radiating through her. "I'm so glad to see you. I was worried."

Claire pulled back, forcing a smile despite the heaviness in her heart. "I'm okay. Just been a rough couple of days."

Liz's eyes searched Claire's face, sensing the underlying turmoil. "I heard about the shooting. Is it true? Felix... he didn't make it?"

Claire nodded, her heart aching as she recalled the moment Felix had slipped away. "Yeah, he didn't survive. He was trying to protect us, and... I couldn't save him."

"Oh, Claire," Liz said softly, reaching for her hand. "I'm so sorry. I can't imagine how hard that must be for you."

"It's been tough," Claire admitted, taking a seat across from Liz. "But it's not just that. Felix said something to me before he died—something about my dad. He mentioned that I was just like him. I can't stop thinking about it."

Liz's expression turned serious, and she leaned in closer. "Felix knew your father well. Sebastian had a reputation for fighting against the odds, standing up for what was right. He inspired people, Claire, and I think Felix saw that in you."

Claire took a deep breath, feeling the weight of Liz's words. "I want to be like him. I want to keep this city safe, just like Dad did. But sometimes, I feel like I'm in over my head."

Liz shook her head, a gentle smile breaking through her concern. "You're stronger than you realize. Sebastian was proud of you, you know. He would have wanted you to carry on his legacy."

Before Claire could respond, the barista called out Liz's order, and she stood up to grab their drinks. As she walked away, Claire's mind raced with memories of her father—his unwavering determination, his passion for justice, and the sacrifices he made. It felt like a mantle she was being called to wear, and it both inspired and terrified her.

When Liz returned, she placed a steaming cup of coffee in front of Claire, the rich aroma grounding her. "Drink up. You'll need your strength."

"Thanks, Liz." Claire wrapped her hands around the warm cup, taking a moment to collect her thoughts. "I'm just trying to make sense of everything. I never thought I'd be thrust into this world of crime and danger."

"You're not alone in this, Claire. You have people who care about you, who will help you," Liz assured her, her eyes softening. "And remember, it's okay to ask for help when you need it. You're not expected to carry this burden alone."

Claire nodded, feeling the warmth of Liz's support enveloping her like a comforting blanket. "I appreciate that, really. I want to make a difference, but sometimes I feel so small in a world full of darkness."

"Sometimes, it's the smallest lights that shine the brightest," Liz replied, her tone encouraging. "You have a good heart, Claire. Trust in that. And trust that you'll find a way to honor Felix and your father."