Page 150 of Shadowed Vows: Ghost
It's not a lie, but it's far from the whole truth. How can I explain that I'm now part of a covert team fighting international criminals?
"But what about your journalism? I thought that was your passion."
I sigh, sinking onto the plush leather couch. "It still is. This is just... a different way of uncovering the truth."
My eyes drift to the floor-to-ceiling windows, taking in the breathtaking view of San Francisco Bay. It's so different from the cramped apartment aboveThe Bay Heraldwhere I grew up.
"I don't know, Mom. Sometimes I wonder if I really belong in this world. It's so far from what I imagined for myself."
There's a pause on the other end of the line, and I can almost see Mom's thoughtful expression. "Alina, do you remember why I left my corporate law job to startThe Bay Heraldwith your father?"
"Because you believed in pursuing the truth," I answer automatically, the family mantra ingrained in me since childhood.
"Exactly. And let me tell you, leaving that cushy job wasn't easy. I had doubts, just like you're having now."
I lean forward, intrigued. Mom doesn't often talk about her life before the newspaper.
"Really?"
"Oh yes. Corporate law paid well, but it was full of compromises and half-truths. I felt like I was suffocating in lies."
Her voice grows passionate.
"When your father proposed starting our own paper, it was terrifying. But it also felt right."
I nod, even though she can't see me. "Because you could pursue the truth without constraints?"
"Precisely. And it sounds like that's what you're doing now, just in a different way."
I chew on my lower lip, considering her words. "But what if... what if sometimes the methods we use aren't exactly... ethical?"
Mom's quiet for a moment. "Alina, the world isn't black and white. Sometimes, to uncover a greater truth or prevent a greater harm, we have to make difficult choices. The important thing is to never lose sight of your moral compass."
Her words settle over me, bringing a sense of calm I didn't realize I needed. "Thanks, Mom. That actually helps a lot."
"I'm glad, sweetie. Just promise me you'll be careful, okay?"
"I will, Mom. I promise." As I say the words, I realize how much I mean them. This new world might be dangerous and complex, but I'm starting to see how I can make a difference here.
"I love you, Alina. We're so proud of you, even if we don't understand everything you're doing."
"I love you too, Mom. Tell Dad I said hi, okay?"
As I end the call, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. Maybe I don't fit perfectly into this world of covert operations and high-stakes missions.
But then again, Mom and Dad didn't fit the mold of traditional journalists either. They forged their own path, just like I'm doing now.
I'm lost in thought, staring out at the city skyline when strong arms suddenly encircle my waist. I gasp, startled, as Kade's familiar scent envelops me.
"Didn't mean to scare you," he murmurs, his breath hot against my ear.
My heart races, but I try to keep my voice steady. "It's okay. I was just thinking about Detective Wilson. He's finally out of the hospital."
Kade hums thoughtfully, his lips brushing the sensitive skin below my ear. "That's good news."
"I was thinking maybe we could visit him." I struggle to focus as Kade's mouth trails down my neck.
"Bring him some cookies or something."
