Page 6 of His Dark Cravings

As we reach Talon's building, I glance around, half-expecting to see a familiar figure lurking in the shadows. But there's no sign of Xavier or his men, and I allow myself to relax slightly as we enter the apartment building.

Talon's place is modest but comfortable. He moved out of our parents house as soon as he could and has been raising hell ever since.

Lucky me.

I take a seat on the couch, my eyes scanning the room as Talon paces in front of me.

"What's going on, Talon?" I ask, my voice gentle but firm. "How did you end up in a place like that? You know how dangerous those people can be."

He runs a hand through his hair, his eyes filled with shame and worry. "I know, I know. I got in over my head. I was gambling to forget, to escape..." His voice trails off, and he avoids looking at me.

"To escape what?" I prompt, my voice gentle.

He sighs, finally meeting my eyes. "Life, I guess. I've been feeling so restless lately, like I'm trapped in a cage. I needed an outlet, something to thrill me, and gambling seemed like the answer." He pauses, his eyes pleading with me to understand. "But I never meant to get so deep. I just kept losing, and now I'm in way too deep."

I lean forward, taking his hands in mine. "It's okay, Talon. We'll figure this out together. I won't let anything happen to you."

He squeezes my hands. "Thank you, Everly. I know I don't deserve your help, but I'm so grateful. Please just… try to help me find a way out of this." He looks at me seriously.

I give him a small smile. "Just promise me you'll stay away from places like that from now on. I can't keep bailing you out of these situations."

He nods, his expression solemn. "I promise. I'll find another way to deal with my restlessness. I won't drag you into my messes anymore."

I believe him, and I know that for now, he means it. But a small voice in the back of my mind whispers a warning. Talon's impulsiveness and thirst for thrills have always been his downfall. I can only hope that this time, he's truly learned his lesson. But first, we need to settle things with Xavier.

I take a deep breath, steeling myself for what lies ahead.

Chapter 2

Everly

I wake with a start, my heart pounding as the events of the previous afternoon come rushing back. The memory of Xavier and the dark allure of his world linger in my mind, leaving me shaken. I roll over, my eyes darting to the clock—it's still early, the sun barely peeking through the curtains.

Talon's desperate call echoes in my head. I know I have to meet this Xavier Ravenwood, the man who holds my brother's fate in his hands. It's a departure from my usual routine, but then again, cleaning up Talon's messes is nothing new. I sigh, knowing I have no other choice.

I rise, my movements weighed down by sleep as I prepare for the day ahead. I choose a simple, high-necked dress, its pale blue fabric flowing around my body, providing a sense of security. The modest outfit is my armor, a way to maintain my dignity in the face of this powerful man. I twist my hair into a loose bun, letting a few tendrils frame my face.

After a quick breakfast, I make my way to Ember's Glow, responsibility settling on my shoulders as I think about the day ahead. As I step inside, the scent of fresh coffee and the hum of activity greet me, offering a momentary respite from the anxiety that has been building since I woke. I lose myself in my work, organizing donations and coordinating with volunteers. It's a comforting routine, one that usually grounds me.

Max's smile, so genuine and carefree, finds me as I sort through boxes of supplies. Normally, that smile would brighten my whole day, but today, I can barely muster a return grin. My mind is consumed with thoughts of my brother and the mysterious Xavier Ravenwood. I know I should be focusing on the task at hand, but it's a losing battle. My thoughts wander down a path that leads away from the orderly world of Ember's Glow and into the unknown.

I feel a twinge of guilt as I realize I'm ignoring Max's friendly banter. He's such a kind soul, always eager to lend a helping hand or offer a listening ear. But today, my heart is elsewhere. I know I'm being selfish, but I can't bring myself to fully engage with Max or the work that usually fulfills me. My mind is already stepping into a new, uncertain realm, one that promises perhaps, just perhaps, a chance to save my brother.

But will it be the last time?

As the afternoon sun begins to cast long shadows, I find myself standing outside the Ravenwood, its opulence a slap in the face to the modest charity where I spend most of my days. Taking a deep breath, I step inside, my eyes adjusting to the dimly lit interior. The place exudes an air of exclusivity and mystery. Without needing help, I make my way to the office the guard led me to yesterday.

"Miss Fields, right on time," a deep voice greets me as I enter Xavier's office. He stands by the window, his tall frame commanding attention. His green eyes assess me, and I feel a shiver run through me, despite the warmth of the room.

"Mr. Ravenwood," I reply, though my hands betray my nerves, twisting the fabric of my dress. "I-I'm here regarding my brother."

"Yes, of course. Please, take a seat." He gestures to a sleek black leather chair, his manner both professional and slightly unsettling.

I sit, my eyes taking in the luxurious office—a world away from the cozy rooms of Ember's Glow. Xavier sits across from me.

"I understand your brother has found himself in a bit of a predicament."

"Yes, he... he's gotten himself into some trouble. I was hoping we could discuss a solution." My voice trembles slightly, and I clear my throat, determined to maintain my composure.

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