The hours stretched on and kleia found it difficult to focus on anything. She kept checking the clock., wondering what was happening, where Vito was, and if he was safe. Every time she heard a car outside, her heart skipped a beat, only to sink when it was.
It wasn't until late that night at Vito finally returned . His suit was rumpled And his face was grim, but there was no signs of injury.
"Vito" kleia whispered, rushing to him. " what happened?"
My smiled faintly, though it didn't reach his eyes. " it's handled. For now."
But Kleia could see the weight of the situation still hung over him. " you're not telling me everything." she said softly.
Vito sighed and pulled her close, rapping his arms around her. " you don't need to know everything, kleia. I don't want you to worry about things you can't control."
" I can handle more than you think" she replied, her voice steady but filled with determination.
" I don't doubt that" he said quiet. " but I also want to protect you. I can't promise you life without danger, but I can't promise you that I always keep you safe, as much as I can"
Kleia looked up at him, her heart torn " I don't want you to protect me like that, vito. I want to stand by you, not be kept in the shadows"
You pulled away slightly to look at her , his brow furrowed. " you have no idea what this is like. It's not just about us., it's about everything I've built. people who want to take everything for me and I protect you from that. Always."
Kleia took a deep breath, swallowing the fear that rose in her throat. " I don't know if I can live like that. I don't want you to fight this battle alone, but I'm scared, vito"
His gaze softened, and he cupped her face gently. " I'm not asking you to fight with me, kleia. I'm asking you to trust me. I'll take care of everything, just like I always have. You're the one I'm living for now."
