Page 49 of Doyle

"Michael," I began softly, trying to find the right words. "We need to talk about something important."

He looked up at me, concern etched on his face. "What is it?"

"I don't think it's safe for you to stay here," I said, my voice steady. "Morgan and Liliana's people know where you are. They won't stop. We need to get you somewhere safe, away from here."

Michael's eyes widened, fear and uncertainty flickering in their depths. "But my dad..."

"I know," I interrupted gently. "I understand. But I can't protect you if you're here. We need to convince your dad that this is the only way."

He nodded slowly, the gravity of the situation sinking in.

"Okay. I'll talk to him tomorrow,” he said.

I kissed his forehead, my resolve strengthening.

"We'll talk to him together,” I said.

Michael's grip on me tightened, his trust evident in his touch. I could only hope I was worthy of his trust.

"Good morning," I greeted Matthew.

He didn't even raise his eyebrows when he saw the two of us come down together.

"Dad, let me," Michael said, taking over cooking when he noticed his dad was burning the eggs in the frying pan.

"Good morning," Matthew said, finally glancing at us.

Judging by the dark circles under his eyes, it didn't look like he'd gotten much sleep last night.

I felt a twinge of guilt about spending the night with Michael, but I quickly dismissed it.

Michael was an adult who knew exactly what he wanted. Still, it must have been hard for Michael to see his old man like this.

"I can make coffee," I offered.

"That would be helpful, thanks," Michael said, then told me where I could find the beans.

Eventually, breakfast was ready, and the three of us sat down at the small kitchen table.

I was mentally prepared for the difficult and somewhat awkward conversation we were about to have.

Michael's dad wasn't my biggest fan, that was made clear to me when he confronted me at the shop after I took Michael out for lunch.

Yet, this same man had called me when Morgan had taken Michael, I reminded myself.

He had his pride, but he was willing to set that aside if it meant keeping his son safe.

"Dad, Doyle and I were talking last night," Michael said after everyone had taken a few bites.

Michael hesitated, unsure how to continue, then glanced at me.

I took a deep breath and explained, "We believe Michael would be safer in Sky Stead. These black magic users wouldn’t dare encroach on territory protected by my pack. We can ensure his safety."

I had more reasons ready to counter whatever arguments Michael's dad might come up with, but to my surprise, he only nodded.

"That seems like the best solution," he said, much to Michael's and my surprise.

He looked at Michael, the pain on his face obvious. Matthew continued, “Michael, what happened yesterday really shook me to the core. It's a difficult decision to make, but I know it's the right one. Doyle and his kin can protect you better than I ever could."

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