章 747: Shadows of Despair         

In the heart of the City of Sin, the neon lights flickered above the bustling streets, casting an otherworldly glow on the sidewalks below. 

Amidst the lively chaos, Elena and Evie followed young Liam out of the bar after witnessing a tense altercation between him and his father.

The air was thick with the scent of alcohol and a mix of various street foods, creating a sensory overload that contrasted sharply with the emotional heaviness hanging in the air. 

As they caught up with Liam, his small frame seemed even more vulnerable against the backdrop of the city's vibrant yet unforgiving atmosphere.

Elena gently placed a hand on Liam's shoulder, offering a comforting squeeze. "Hey, it's okay. We're here for you."

Evie knelt down to his eye level, her expression softening. "Your dad didn't mean those things. Sometimes, people say things they don't really mean when they've had too much to drink. It's not your fault."