Chapter 24: Chapter 24

Steve clenched his phone so tightly, it was a miracle it didn't crack under the pressure. His body trembled with shock, a mixture of panic and rage coursing through him.

He had to recover, had to stay focused—if not, the worry would kill him before he found Shane.

Pacing back and forth, Steve's eyes stayed locked on the phone, refusing to let it out of his sight. His thoughts raced uncontrollably, fighting to stay calm. He had to be calm. He forced his breathing to steady, knowing he had to focus.

"Why isn't he picking up?" Steve muttered under his breath, dialing Shane's number again. The phone rang endlessly, but no one answered. "Come on, Shane… pick up!"

Finally, Steve couldn't take it anymore. He scrolled through his contacts and called Thomas, one of Shane's men. The phone barely rang before Thomas answered, his voice shaking. "Hello, boss."