Chapter 181

DAHLIA

“We’re not going to place an arrest, Sebastian.”

Diego’s words sliced through the fog in my head.

I stirred, my lashes fluttering open as confusion gave way to awareness. The car was quiet except for the low hum of the engine and the night insects outside. Sebastian was rigid in the driver’s seat, one hand braced on the steering wheel like he was holding himself back from tearing something apart.

I pushed myself upright slowly, my muscles protesting, my body still heavy with shock.

“What do you mean you’re not arresting him?” Sebastian snapped. “She was kidnapped. Held against her will. Threatened. Assaulted. There’s a contract…”

“And none of it sticks,” Diego cut in calmly. “Not the way things stand.”

Sebastian turned on him. “That’s bullshit.”

I cleared my throat, my voice hoarse. “Seb…”

He immediately looked back at me, concern flooding his features. “Did I wake you up? You should rest.”

“I need to hear this,” I s