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We arrive at Claude's opulent mansion, our footsteps echoing through the lavish halls as we're led into his study. He sits behind his mahogany desk, a glass of amber liquid clutched in his hand.
"Ah, mes enfants," Claude says, his voice dripping with false warmth. "I have a new assignment for you two."
He slides a manila envelope across the polished surface, its contents unknown but undoubtedly dangerous. As my fingers brush against the cool paper, I feel the full weight of my choice bearing down upon me.
"Go on," he urges, a sly smile playing on his lips. "Take a look, then tell me – are you both still willing to serve the cause?"
I exchange one final glance with Bastien, knowing that whatever path we choose, there's no turning back.
Chapter Thirteen
Lisette
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TEARS BLUR MY VISIONas I stand in the now barren bakery, the walls stripped of their warmth and joy. I close my eyes, the scent of fresh bread and laughter still lingering in the air. Memories bloom like flowers in a meadow, each one a precious moment shared with family and friends within these walls.
"Chérie, it's time to go," Simone murmurs, her voice thick with emotion. She cradles a box of my belongings in her arms, careful not to jostle the fragile mementos inside.
I nod weakly, my heart heavy with the weight of the decision before me. To leave Bastien and Etienne behind, to sever the tendrils of love that have wrapped themselves so tightly around my heart, is a pain I never thought I'd endure.
"Have you spoken to them?" Simone asks, her brown eyes searching mine for a hint of wavering resolve.
"No," I admit, wiping away the tears that threaten to spill over once more. "I can't bear to see the hurt in their eyes."
"Then don't say goodbye," she urges, setting the box down on the counter and taking my hands in hers. "Go now, before you change your mind. It’ll only make it harder if you try and leave things on a good note. There’s no good way to leave the ones you love."
My breath catches in my throat, the weight of her words settling upon me like a blanket of truth. As much as I long to escape this life, to break free from the shackles of gangland ties and blood-soaked secrets, I cannot deny the yearning for the love that has blossomed between us.
"Simone, I..."
"Stop, I have eyes," she interrupts, a hint of pleading in her voice. "I know I don’t...I don’t approve of what they do. I hate all of this business, but...I can see that you’re in love. Anyone can."
Her words strike me like a bolt of lightning, illuminating the shadows of doubt that have consumed me for so long. I swallow hard, my purpose strengthening with each heartbeat.
“But that doesn’t make you safe. It makes you more of a target. Please.” Simone’s chin crumples. “I cannot stand the thought of you ending up like my mama. Please stay safe.”
