?Chapter 554: With his eyes closed and his voice a raspy whisper, Rhys apologized to her.


    Im sorry.


    I didnt keep my promise to you… Harlee gazed at Rhys, noticing his pallidplexion and the apologetic look in his eyes.


    She swallowed hard, her voice catching as she said, You promised you wouldnt get hurt.


    Ever since Rhys incident, sleep had eluded Harlee, haunted by the image of him being shot, an image too harrowing to shake off.


    Tears welled up in Harlees eyes unexpectedly.


    She had tried not to let anger or sadness overwhelm her, but the sound of Rhys voice shattered her resolve.


    A tumult of emotionsgrievance, fear, and worryflooded through her, making it impossible for her to maintain her usualposure.


    She found herself caring for Rhys with the same intensity she usually reserved for Tonya.


    She realized Rhys had gradually captured her heart, though she mistook this profound attachment for mere suitability.


    Rhys looked visibly pale, and his voice softened to a rasp as he responded to Harlees concern.


    His eyes, dark and earnest, shimmered with tenderness as he asked, his voice rough with emotion, Harlee, can I hold you? Without a word, Harlee leaned in and rested her head on Rhys chest.


    Rhys hand gently caressed her back, setting aforting rhythm.


    Words were unnecessary.


    Their silence spoke volumes.


    Initially, Harlees body tensed under his touch, her lips pressed firmly together as she fought back her emotions.


    Gradually, she yielded to the warmth of his embrace, allowing herself to seek sce.


    As Rhys felt Harlees mood shift, a tear escaped his eye.


    Find thetest releases g?lnσv????????s He had thought he wouldnt mind being seriously injured again if it meant he got to know the depth of Harlees feelings for him.


    Yet, the visible distress in Harlees eyes now made him reconsider.


    He couldnt stand to cause her pain.


    After a moment of shared silence, Rhys whispered, Harlee, what do you n to do with Lindsay? Although Patrick and the others hadnt uncovered the mastermind behind the incident, Lindsays involvement was undeniable.


    Harlee fetched a ss of water, slid a straw into it from the drawer, and gently offered it to Rhys.


    With calm rity, she asked, What do you think? Rhys took a few deep sips, soothing his dry throat, and smiled knowingly.


    You wont get involved personally.


    Youll make sure she ends up behind bars.


    The moment Rhys finished, a radiant smile bloomed on Harlees lips.


    He knew immediately that he had guessed correctly.


    Do you need my help with that? Rhys inquired.


    Harlee shook her head and responded, No need.


    I have it under control.


    She was determined not to let Lindsay get away this time.


    Rhys then steered their conversation to lighter, everyday matters, and they found themselvesughing and chatting like any other couple might.


    Reports of car idents, gun battles, and indiscriminate shootings filled the news, casting a shadow of terror over Baythorn and Mogluylia alike.


    Seriously, after seeing that video, Im terrified to even step outside.


    That poor little girl in the floral dress was just standing at the crosswalk when suddenly… .


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