Chương 13: chapter 13

The Weight of Shadows

Sam's POV

The drive stretched on in silence, the city blurring past as Bella sat quietly beside me. I stole a glance at her, noting the tension in her posture, her fingers fidgeting slightly. It was about time I spoke up.

"Bella…" I started, then cleared my throat, the words sticking as I searched for the right tone. 

"About earlier. The way I spoke I was out of line."

She looked over, her eyes meeting mine, calm and level. 

"It's fine, Sam. I know you're just trying to look out for everyone. Your family… and your reputation."

Her response, steady and understanding, almost threw me off. I nodded, relieved but surprised by her resilience. 

"Soon, you'll be attending more official family duties. Dinners, meetings, events. The family won't make it easy especially my uncle and aunt. But in time, you'll understand how this family operates, its power, and… its limitations."

She nodded thoughtfully.