Page 71 of Unspoken

To that Sasha smiles softly.

"Is that why you went to Downers last night?" I ask. "Looking for answers?"

"Y-yes," he admits, swallowing hard. "There was this man with a golden tooth who told me about it on campus. It seemed like he had more information."

"Wait a second. That was on campus? Is that why you asked me to teach you how to shoot?"

"Yes."

"You need to tell me when someone approaches you. Immediately. Do you understand?"

He nods.

"Say it, Sasha."

"I understand."

I sit back in my chair and suck in a lungful of air, processing the weight of Sasha's confession. I'm disappointed he's kept this from me. His safety is paramount, and investigating his father's murder could only make things worse. Although, I don’t know how much worse it could get. It seems that we hit rock bottom a long time ago.

But as I look into those vulnerable eyes that belong to a young man sitting across from me, deep in my gut I know that I'll do whatever it takes to protect him—even if it means taking the biggest risks. After all, I don’t have anything left. Ma’s gone. And he's the only one left.

"Let's finish breakfast," I tell him, trying to change the topic.

Yet, my heart hammers in my chest, my concern growing. I worry about the danger that could come to both of us if we delve deeper into Yuri's murder.

"I need to know what happened to him," Sasha hisses out.

"Listen." I reach to gently grasp his hand resting on the table, my voice a mix of caution and protectiveness. "You can't get involved in Vlad's affairs. Please stop freelancing."

Sasha's gaze flickers between our joined hands and my face. "Okay. I'll stop. Under one condition."

"What's that?" My grip on his hand tightens instinctively.

"Help me find out what really happened to my father."

I take a moment to think, feeling the battle raging within me—my feelings for Sasha versus my duty to Vlad. With a heavy sigh, I reluctantly shake my head. "I'll do whatever I can to keep you safe. But investigating Yuri's death is too risky. Besides, Vlad's the one paying my salary. I just can't do that."

Sasha’s shoulders slump and with a sad face he pouts. "Being employed by Vlad didn't stop you from liking it when I sucked your dick, now did it?"

"Brat," I choke out. "Eat your eggs before they get cold."

He laughs softly and picks up his fork, resuming his breakfast as I watch him, still holding his hand. But on the inside all the unanswered questions surrounding Yuri Solovey's death are starting to smother my brain.

CHAPTER 24

LOGAN

Stan and I are settled in our usual booth at the back of the sports bar we frequented when we were both on the force. I still do, just not as often, and this feels like a trip down memory lane. The air is filled with the scent of stale beer and sweat, accompanied by the typical noises you’d find in an establishment like this. The raucous laughter of buzzed patrons and the pounding rhythm of rock music from the speakers. A plate of extra greasy chicken wings sits between us, forgotten in favor of our shared silence.

"How are you holding up, brother?" Stan asks, his voice barely recognizable above the racket.

"Okay," I reply, clenching my jaw and avoiding his gaze. "Hanging in there."

"Cecilia was a good woman," he says, sadness clouding his tired eyes. "She’s in heaven now. Believe me. If angels are real, your mom is getting her medal now from the Man himself."

I nod, unable to find words. More silence follows as we pluck some food from the plate and dip it in sauce. But the truth is I have no appetite.

"Logan..." Stan begins, hesitating for a moment before continuing. "What’s going on? This dinner isn't about old times, is it?"

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