Page 55 of Worship Him

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ADAM

Iwake up to the same silence that's been haunting me for what feels like years. No messages, no calls, nothing from Destiny. The weight of uncertainty settles on my chest when I drag myself out of bed.

I’m not sure whether I should be angry with her for not returning my calls or worried that there’s a sinister reason behind her actions.

"Fuck this," I mutter, heading to the shower.

The hot water does little to ease the tension in my muscles. I can't shake the image of Destiny at the airport, Avery in her arms. What the hell is she playing at?

I spend a few minutes just enjoying the heat of the water, allowing my mind to go blank. After a few minutes, I get out and dry off.

Glimpsing my face in the mirror, I grin. At least I don’t look like I’m worried. Over the years, I’ve mastered the art of looking unbothered and aloof no matter what’s happening.

Dressed and ready for the day, I grab my phone, thumb hovering over Destiny's number.

No. I need to let things play out and wait patiently.

In the kitchen, I pour a cup of coffee, the rich aroma filling the air. My appetite's gone, replaced by a gnawing worry I can't quite shake.

It’s something I’m used to by now after years of building SynapseX, but this is different. This time I’m worried about my child, my flesh and blood.

Still, I know how to compartmentalize and focus on my work. I have to.

My phone buzzes. For a split second, hope surges through me, but it's just a reminder. I have several meetings scheduled for the day.

Disappointment tastes bitter in my mouth.

"Get it together, Ryder," I growl at myself, opening my laptop.

I scroll through my emails, barely registering the words. My mind keeps drifting to Destiny and Avery. Where are they? Are they safe? The questions circle like vultures, picking at my concentration.

Adjusting my jacket and tie, I force the thoughts away.

Time to focus on SynapseX.

I grab my keys and head to the office. Work and all those damn meetings will keep my mind off this mess.

The drive is fast and buildings blur past me. When I arrive at the building, I stride towards the entrance of my company, my mind already on the day ahead. The familiar glass doors loom before me, reflecting the morning sun.

Just as I reach for the handle, a cacophony of voices erupts.

"Mr. Ryder! Do you have anything to say about the scandal surrounding SynapseX?"

"Adam, what can you tell us about your relationship with your wife?"

"Are the rumors about you and Destiny having a child true?"

Fuck. A swarm of reporters materializes, microphones thrust in my face, cameras flashing. My jaw clenches.

How the hell did they get past my security?

I try to push past them, but they're relentless, blocking my path.

"No comment," I growl, shoving a particularly aggressive reporter aside.

"But Mr. Ryder, the public has a right to know!"

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