Shadow's Embrace

Chapter 8

Xian is busy preparing dinner for the teenagers when the phone rings, breaking the silence. He wipes his hands on a towel and picks up the receiver. "Hello?"

Rafael's deep voice resonates through the line. "Xian, I need to see you tonight. Come alone."

Xian' grip tightens around the phone. "Could you give me some notice, Rafael? The children are expecting me to make dinner for them tonight."

Rafael' response is curt. "You will come tonight, Xian. I will send someone to pick you up." Xian frowns, feeling uneasy. "Rafael, I don't understand why you can't just schedule a meeting at the orphanage tomorrow or the next day." But Rafael doesn't respond, and instead hangs up the phone.

With that, Rafael hangs up, leaving Xian wondering what prompted the sudden summons. As the minutes ticked away, Xian couldn't shake the feeling that Rafael was upset about something. And then, as the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the orphanage grounds, he saw the sleek black car pull up. The driver emerged, his face expressionless as he opened the rear door. Without a word, the driver gestured toward the interior, urging Xian to enter. Xian hesitated momentarily, sensing something amiss, but ultimately stepped inside. The door closed behind him, enveloping him in darkness.

The driver's silence made Xian even more uncomfortable than the opulent interior of the vehicle. He shifted slightly, adjusting his position to avoid creasing his clothes. As the journey progressed, the rhythmic hum of the engine lulled him into a fitful reverie, his mind wandering back to the orphanage and the children he had left behind. Suddenly, he was jolted back to full awareness by the sound of gravel crunching beneath the tires. The car slowed, gliding smoothly onto the manicured driveway of Rafael's estate. The driver pulled up outside the imposing mansion, its facade gleaming in the fading light. Xian felt a shiver run down his spine as the driver opened the door and motioned for him to exit.

Xian emerged from the car, taking in the vast expanse of perfectly manicured lawns and gardens surrounding the mansion. A gentle breeze carried the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers, contrasting starkly with the tension coiling within him. His footsteps echoed softly against the stone pavement as he followed the driver toward the entrance. The heavy wooden doors swung open effortlessly, revealing a warm, golden glow that spilled from the foyer. The scent of expensive cologne wafted through the air, mingling with the faint aroma of cigar smoke. Xian's heart quickened as he stepped inside, his eyes scanning the lavish surroundings.

The driver led Xian deeper into the mansion, navigating the labyrinthine corridors with ease. Finally, they arrived at the door to Rafael's study. The driver knocked twice, the sound echoing softly through the hallway. After a moment, a low voice bade them enter. Xian took a deep breath and pushed open the door, stepping into the warm, dimly lit space. Rafael sat behind his massive oak desk, the whiskey decanter reflected in the polished surface. His gaze locked onto Xian, a mixture of intensity and possessiveness evident in his eyes.

Rafael leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers together as he regarded Xian. "Good evening," he said, his voice low and smooth. Xian felt a flicker of unease as he replied, "Evening." Rafael gestured toward one of the armchairs facing his desk. "Please sit." Xian did as instructed, settling into the plush leather seat. Rafael poured himself another glass of whiskey, the amber liquid glowing warmly in the dim light. "I trust the drive here was comfortable?" he asked.

"It was fine," Xian replied, his tone neutral. Rafael raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Xian's lack of enthusiasm. "Is there anything else I should know about the quality of service provided by my staff?" he asked, setting the glass down. Xian shook his head. "No, sir. The driver was courteous and professional." Rafael nodded thoughtfully, his eyes never leaving Xian's face. "Good. Now, let us move on to the reason for your visit. "I've noticed you've been fraternizing with Sean," Rafael said, his voice dripping with venom. "And I don't appreciate his interest in you. You belong to me, Xian." "Sean's interest in you is... disturbing," Rafael continued, his eyes narrowing. "He thinks he can just waltz in here and steal what is rightfully mine. You need to be reminded of your place."