Weakness

Damien

Riley's finally asleep, her breathing soft and steady, but I can't seem to close my eyes. I sit on the edge of the bed, watching her for a few moments. 

She looks peaceful now, and I'd do anything to keep her that way—to keep her safe from the chaos outside these walls. But I can't just sit here. Not after what happened. Not after the bruise on her neck.

I stand quietly, making my way out of the room without disturbing her. My bedroom's just down the hall, and once inside, I pull out my phone and dial a number I've only used when things need to be handled. Nikolai picks up after the first ring.

"Boss," he says, his voice calm and expectant. He knows me well enough to sense when something's off.

"I need you to send a message," I say, pacing across the room, my voice low but hard. "To Callum Hawthorne."