The Mafia Queen's Obsession

Part 19

Her fingers gently brush against Ayla's back, and she watches as Ayla's breathing steadies, her body finally at ease. The vulnerability of the moment doesn't escape her, but instead of feeling uncomfortable or threatened, it feels... right.

Selene's heart beats a little slower, her usually guarded demeanour softened by the simple act of holding someone she doesn't have to control. 

For the first time in a long time, she allows herself to just be—no missions, no strategy, no calculating her next move. Just her, and Ayla, wrapped up in the quiet calm of the moment.

A small, almost imperceptible smile tugs at the corners of Selene's lips as she looks down at Ayla, feeling a warmth spread through her chest—something akin to happiness, though she can't quite name it yet.

In the chaos of her life, in the shadow of her pursuit of revenge and power, this moment, this simple act of holding someone, is something she never expected. 

The weight of it is almost too much to bear, but it's also strangely comforting.

For the first time in years, Selene feels as though she isn't alone, and it's both unsettling and liberating. 

Ayla has managed to worm her way into a place Selene thought was closed off forever, and instead of pushing her away, Selene welcomes it.

"I didn't expect this," Selene whispers to herself, though Ayla can't hear. "But maybe... maybe it's what I've needed."

And for the first time, the thought of the future doesn't seem so daunting. 

For the first time in a long while, Selene allows herself to feel the strange, bittersweet joy of having someone by her side.

The room grows quieter, the only sounds now the soft rustling of sheets and the gentle rhythm of their breathing. 

In the comfort of each other's presence, both Selene and Ayla slowly drift off, the weight of the day finally lifting from their shoulders.

Ayla, nestled in Selene's arms, lets her mind wander into the haze of sleep, her body relaxed and secure. 

The chaos and danger of the world outside seem far away now, as if suspended in time. The only thing that matters in this moment is the warmth, the quiet, and the presence of the woman beside her. Selene, too, feels herself slip into sleep, her usual vigilance giving way to an unfamiliar peace. 

She stays still, her arms protectively around Ayla, allowing herself to finally rest. The edges of her mind begin to blur as she fades into slumber, but the strange sense of happiness lingers, warm and soft, like a secret she's never allowed herself to embrace.

Together, they fall into a deep, quiet sleep—two people, once caught in the storm of their own worlds, now finding a moment of calm in the shared space between them. 

The night stretches on, peaceful and undisturbed, as they both rest, unaware of what the coming day will bring.

For now, they simply sleep—safe, at least for tonight.

————

Ayla stirs awake, the soft morning light filtering through the curtains, and she stretches slowly, feeling the weight of the peaceful sleep she's just come out of. She blinks a few times, adjusting to the unfamiliar stillness of the room.

But then her eyes lock onto the sight across the room—Selene. 

The powerful woman is already up and dressed, the transformation from the casual comfort of last night to the commanding figure she's known for happening in an instant. Selene stands by the window, her hair perfectly combed, a sharp, tailored suit hugging her frame.