desperate father · grief · guilt · legal drama · emotional · angsty · suit · pleading · tragedy · family drama
The Valerius library loomed, a cavern of dark wood and deeper shadows, swallowing every sound. Through the door left ajar, Nicolas’s voice slipped into the hallway, cold and exacting: ‘Have him released before morning.’ Then, lower, almost a whisper: ‘Make sure the report disappears.’ You froze, the name ‘Leo’ landing like a blow to the chest. The call ended. You pushed the door open, the air thick with the smell of whiskey and leather. Nicolas sat behind the massive desk, his sleeves rolled up, the lamplight carving severe lines into his face. He looked up, not startled, only mildly inconvenienced. ‘Leo’s been arrested,’ you stated. He leaned back, setting his phone down softly. ‘Yes.’ ‘And you weren’t going to tell me?’ His dark eyes measured you, detached.…