I stood outside Sophia's room long after Ellie had gone in, listening to the faint murmur of their voices. I couldn't understand their words, but I knew I didn't need to understand them, as I could sense the shift in the air, like a storm brewing inside the walls of my house.
When Ellie finally emerged, looking pale but composed, I posed the only question that counted: Well?
Her answer was simple, but it was enough. She knows; Sophia knows about us.
And that's when the truth sank deep into my chest like iron. Sophia might try to understand, or she might not. Either way, Ellie was caught in the middle of this family, and that meant she was someone I had to protect.
After she slipped away, I stayed behind in the quiet hall, my fists clenched at my sides, my jaw clenched tight. The thought of Ellie feeling guilty for loving me stirred something primal in me: the anger at the world, at circumstances, even at my sister if she dared to make Ellie feel unworthy.
Sophia had always been the gentlest among us, untouched by the darker parts of the Donovan legacy. She deserved honesty, but I couldn't ignore the fact that my heart had already chosen Ellie.
And once I chose, I would never look back.
Later, I found myself in my study, staring at the shelves of ledgers and old family contracts. My father's voice echoed in my mind: "The business demands sacrifices, Tristan. Sometimes the people you love will pay the price."
I used to think he meant friends, colleagues, and allies. Now I realize he might have meant family, too.
A knock sounded at the door. Charlie entered, his face grim but serious. "She's your best friend, Tristan. And Ellie is Sophia's."
"I know." My voice sounded flat.
Charlie studied me carefully. "So, you understand what's at risk if this breaks them apart."
I met his gaze steadily. "If I have to choose between their comfort and Ellie's safety, I'll always pick Ellie."
Charlie's sigh was heavy, but he didn't argue. He simply nodded once and then left me to my thoughts.
Alone again, I pressed my hands against the desk, feeling the cool wood beneath my palms. My life had always revolved around maintaining control and sealing off my emotions behind strong walls. Ellie had managed to bypass all my defenses, despite the strong walls behind which I tried to hide, and now I couldn't picture myself letting her go.
Even if it meant going against my own flesh and blood.
Tristan hears footsteps outside the study. He knows it's Sophia's, pausing briefly to consider whether she heard everything he said, Charlie.