Can’t Win Me Back

"Amber will be fine,' Jasper said confidently.

"Based on Justin's way of doing things, he won't harm her for now. She's still useful to him. He'll exploit her to control you and Alyssa, and to keep me from taking him down." Cripping Jasper's arm, Axel pleaded, 'Jasper, I have to save my wife... What should I do?"

His eyes were red, brimming with unshed tears.

Steadying his breath, Jasper replied, "Even if it comes to killing Justin, it shouldn't be your hands that get dirty. I'll do it."

"Are you kidding me? If we're taking that bastard down, we do it together!" Axel's expression was fierce and unyielding. "We went through the same military academy. We have to fight side by side!"

"Justin is my older brother. It's my family's matter to handle. And don't think I'm doing this for your sake-I have my own reasons."

After a moment of silence, Jasper's voice softened. "I came to see you today for another reason. When you get home, don't blame Lyse. She's been torturing herself with guilt these past few days. She loves Amber deeply."

Axel clicked his tongue. "Do you think so little of me? That's Lyse we're talking about-my sister. I love her with my life. Why would I ever blame her?"

back his tears, he added, And why are you only focused on me? What happens to Lyse if you get your hands dirty? I'm not allowed to take

a cold side-eye. "What does

asking that? Lyse still loves you, even now. Whether you lose

with restraint. He tumed to gaze out the window. "I fall short

was trapped in a recurring nightmare, a suffocating loop of darkness, malice, and hopelessness. Over

was curled in a filthy basement at The Millenium, naked and covered in bruises. The door creaked open, and a tall,

she whispered through

his face remained

was cold, emotionless. "Do you regret

then just to

Amber wept silently.

go back, she'd rather freeze to death on