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I freeze in my tracks, shock coursing through my veins like ice. So, there it is—the truth about Carter's intentions. He wants to manipulate Emily, to use her for his own twisted gains—whatever those are. My heart clenches with a mix of fury and fear, fueled by the desire to protect her at all costs.
Now that I know who the real enemy is, I won't rest until Emily is safe from Carter's clutches. I will be her guardian angel, her silent protector, watching from the shadows to ensure that she remains unharmed. I may not be the hero she deserves, but I will certainly be the one she needs.
* * *
Over the next few days, I watch Emily even more closely than before, my heart swelling with a fierce protectiveness. When Carter shows up at the candy shop, his sly smiles and subtle gestures send shivers down my spine. It's as if he's a coiled snake, waiting to strike when Emily least expects it.
"Stay strong, Emily," I whisper as she laughs at something Carter says, her blue eyes sparkling like stars in the night sky. "I won't let him hurt you."
Time feels like it's running out, sand trickling through the hourglass of her safety. In the back of my mind, I know that sooner or later, Carter will make his move, and when he does, I'll be there to shield Emily from the storm.
For now, all I can do is remain vigilant, a silent sentinel watching over the woman who has unknowingly captured my heart. I may not have the words to tell her how I feel, but my actions will speak louder than any whispered confession ever could.
As the sun sets each day, painting the sky in shades of gold and crimson, I promise myself that I will protect Emily, no matter the cost. She is a flame burning brightly in the darkness, and I refuse to let anyone snuff out her light.
CHAPTER8
Max
I stand outsidethe candy shop, watching as Emily locks up for the night. The door chime announces her exit, like a sweet melody meant just for her. Through the large glass window, I can see the brightly lit interior with shelves stocked with colorful candies. It's a world of confections that seems fitting for someone as vibrant and joyful as Emily.
"Another day done," she says to herself, unaware of my presence. She flips the sign on the door to 'closed,' and as she does, a small smile dances on her lips. It's no secret that she loves her job, but there's something about closing time that makes me think she cherishes these moments alone in the candy wonderland.
Emily is alone in the shop now, counting the day's earnings and preparing to leave. I watch her graceful hands sort through the cash, her blue eyes alight like the glow of gummy bears in the afternoon sun. I've been coming here for weeks, yet I still can't muster up the courage to say more than a few words to her. But that doesn't stop me from wanting to be near her, to protect her, even if it means simply watching over the candy shop where she spends her days.
"Alright then," she murmurs, slipping the money into the register and giving the counter one last wipe with a cloth. "Time to go home."
As she gathers her belongings, my heart races, fueled by the desire to keep her safe. I wish I could tell her how much she means to me, but words fail me every time. Instead, I focus on silently keeping watch, ensuring nothing disturbs the peace of her evening departure.
"Goodnight, little candy shop," she whispers as she turns off the lights, plunging the store into darkness. Her silhouette is barely visible against the dim streetlights, but she remains the brightest thing in my world.
My instincts tell me to keep a close eye on her. The quiet night only amplifies my concerns, and it seems I'm not alone in noticing her vulnerability. From the shadows across the street, a group of thugs emerges. There are four of them, each one rougher looking than the last. Their menacing demeanors send shivers down my spine, and they carry weapons—a baseball bat, a crowbar, and one even has brass knuckles.
"Looks like we got ourselves a little treat tonight, boys," one of the thugs sneers, cracking his knuckles. The others laugh, their voices low and malicious.
"Let's make this quick," another thug says, adjusting the grip on his baseball bat. "We don't want any unexpected surprises."
My heart races as the footsteps of the thugs echo on the pavement, each step increasing my unease. Their eyes fixate on Emily through the window, predatory gazes sizing up their prey. She's completely unaware of the danger lurking outside, but I won't let them hurt her.
"Come on, don't want to disappoint Carter," the third thug urges, taking a swig from a flask before tossing it aside.
I watch from the shadows of a nearby alley, my heart pounding in my chest. The tension in my muscles is palpable, like a tightly coiled spring, ready to snap into action at any moment. I can't bear the thought of those thugs getting anywhere near Emily, and I know I have to act. For her, for myself, for the truth that burns within me like a wildfire.
My body is a testament to countless hours spent honing my physical prowess—thick cords of muscle wrapped around bone, sinew, and determination. I roll my shoulders back, feeling the satisfying crack of vertebrae aligning. A deep breath fills my lungs, the sweet scent of candy contrasting with the pungent aroma of stale garbage in the alley. As I exhale, I let go of my fear, my hesitation, my doubt.
"Hey!" I shout, bursting from the shadows like a lion protecting its pride. My words slice through the air, sharp and clear, and the thugs turn their attention toward me. Their eyes narrow, sizing me up, but I don't care. They won't lay a finger on Emily. Not if I have anything to say about it.
"Who's this fool?" one thug sneers, his grip tightening on the baseball bat.
"Doesn't matter," another replies, cracking his knuckles. "He won't be standing long."
"Emily, stay inside!" I call out, hoping she hears the urgency in my voice. "Lock the door!"
"What?" Her voice trembles, a blend of confusion and fear that stirs something primal within me. "What's going on?"
"Trust me," I say, my eyes locked on the threats before me, my voice steady and unwavering. "I won't let anything happen to you."
"Big words," the third thug taunts, brandishing his crowbar with a sinister grin. "Let's see if you can back them up."
