ly scanning information of every event Yeline's father had participated in. He combed over newspaper articles, loo

of freedom further away. The shadows under his eyes represented the hopelessness that was creeping in on him. The fatigue in his eyes was obvious, a result of the c

gly asked, "Man, when was the last time you

is face skinny and ser

d to unwind, get some fresh air. Zane just flew in this morning. He's throw

ou can't help Yeline if you're dead on

ther wealthy family that owns big franchises of bars and resorts worldwide. Zane held considerable power, and Onyx wondered if

and an intoxicating mix of bodies and laughter. However, Onyx stayed disconnected

g red hair falling down her back, was having a heated argument with a large man.

te place the woman's identity, but the fierce rage pouring from her gaze sparke

a fierce growl as he charged forward. Fists flew, fuelled by a long-simmering anger

ninjured, stood there, surprised expression on her face. Onyx felt a wave of

with a harsh voice

er of gratitude in her eyes. "Onyx

Zane and Markus appe

ached up, wincing as his fingers touched a split in his lip. Looking at Britta, he observ

rough the tense atmosphere, "

ta, without a word, gestured for Onyx to follow. They walked i

e's inner circle. Britta switched on the dim overhead li

he said, indic

leather cool again

o know each ot

Zane explained cryptically,

ected stirred within him. He couldn't deny that Britta was attractive, her features

ing slope of her nose. His eyes lingered on her lips, which were full and slightly open as she concentrated, and

back as Britta dabbed at his

heir breaths mingling in the air. Onyx's heart raced, he felt a flicker of warmth, a traitorous awar

he moment. The thought of Yeline, alone and afraid, served as a stark

, his voice laced with a mix

longer than necessary. She gave him a small, understanding smile.

to find a way to save her, and for that, he needed to stay focused. Britta's unexpected

ed Markus lying over a table, babbling uncontrollably. With a groan, Onyx assisted his friend up and began directi

de?" Onyx

g over her face. "Yes, please.

Britta into the passenger side and started the car. The dri

of the situation hangs heavy in the air. Onyx, consumed by

ally turned her room into a gilded cage," she explains. "No freedom, no co

That explains why she hasn't replied to my texts. They took ever

l means of communication. They're

tens to engulf Onyx, but Britta isn't ready to give up. A spark of d

n," she winks, "to convince them to let the car through.

f hope rekindled in his gaze. "

st call me your distraction extraordinaire. Now, buc