FEAR

"You're just angry," Dylan said, almost pleading now. "Give it time, and you'll see—"

"Leave, Dylan," Myra said firmly, her voice steady despite the turmoil in her chest. "Or I'll call Ashley."

Dylan froze, the words hitting him harder than he expected. He looked into her eyes, seeing the anger, the resolve. If he left now, she'd never want to see him again. The thought filled him with a fear he hadn't felt in years.

"Aren't you worried about your family?" he said suddenly, his tone quieter but laced with something darker.

Myra's breath hitched. "What are you talking about?" she asked, her voice betraying her unease.

"I know where they are," Dylan said, his gaze unwavering. "Their lives are in my hands."

Her eyes widened, fear creeping into her expression. "You wouldn't hurt them," she said, but her voice was trembling now.

"I don't know what I'd do," Dylan admitted, his voice cracking slightly. "If I lost you..."