Chapter 22. Peace Amidst Chaos

Evelyn

“I’m sorry for leaving you alone,” Jacob sighed, tenderly cupping my face and pressing a gentle kiss on my forehead. His voice quivered with guilt. “I had no idea they’d pull such a stunt. If I’d known, I’d never have left you here. I’m so fucking sorry…”

“It’s okay, Jacob. It wasn’t your fault,” I sniffled, holding him tighter. Despite the chaos, being in his embrace brought a sense of safety and solace that I desperately needed. It didn’t matter what had happened, I was with him now, that’s all I needed.

“You must have been terrified, baby,” he murmured, his fingers running through my hair as I buried my face into his neck. “I promise this won’t happen again. They’ll pay for what they did today. I won’t let them have the chance to do it again.”

“I’m sorry I couldn’t stop them. They destroyed everything…”

“Stop, please,” Jacob lifted my chin gently, his eyes meeting mine. “Do you think that matters to me, Evie? You have nothing to apologi