DEVASTATING TIMES.
``CHAPTER TWO [2].
DEVASTATING TIMES...
The night was dark and stormy, the wind howling outside like a pack of wolves. Keila's children, Shane and Robyn, were asleep in the safe room, exhausted from the days events.
Keila sat beside them, her eyes fixed on the monitor showing the security feeds around the house.
Edouard stood nearby. His eyes scanning the screens, his hand on the grip of his gun, suddenly,the monitors flickered and went black.
"What's happening"? Keila asked,her voice low and urgent.
"I don't know". Edouard replied, his eyes narrowing."It could be a power outage or something more sinister ".
Just then,the lights in the safe room flickered and died, plunging them into darkness. Keila's heart raced as she heard the sound of gunfire and shattering glass from out side.
"What's happening"? She whispered,her voice trembling.
Edouard's voice was calm and steady."Stay here,Keila. I'll go check it out ".
But as he moved towards the door, it burst open, and a group of masked men stormed in, some wore the mask of captain midnight,while others the mask of a lone ranger.
Edouard drew his gun,but he was outnumbered. Keila's heart was racing as she watched in horror her mind frozen with fear, but then she saw something that made her snap into action. One of the masked men, was heading straight for her children, his gun raised. Without hesitation, Keila threw herself in front of him, her arms spread wide.
"You'll have to go through me first". She snarled,her eyes blazing with fury.
The man sneered,but Edouard took advantage of the distraction to take him down. The other attackers followed suit, and soon the room was a chaos of gunfire and hand—to—hand combat.
Keila's heart was racing, her mind reeling with fear, but she didn't move, didn't flinch, until she saw Edouard take down the last attacker. Then she collapsed, her body shaking with relief and terror. Edouard rushed to her side. His eyes scanning her face. "Are you okay"? He asked, his voice urgent.
Keila nodded, her voice barely audible."Y—yes. The children "?
Edouard smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners."They're safe, Keila. They are safe".
As they sat on the floor, Edouard pulled Keila into a tight embrace, holding her close as she trembled with fear and relief."It's over now". He whispered, his voice soothing."You're safe, and so are the kids".
As they held each other, the sound of sirens echoed out side, growing louder with each passing moment. Edouard's team had arrived, and they quickly secured the area. Taking the attackers into custody.
Keila pulled back, her eyes locking on Edouard's."How did they find us". She asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Edouard's expression turned grim."I don't know, but we will find out. I promise".
As they walked out of the safe room, Keila saw the chaos that had ensued. The house was in disarray, furniture overturned and Windows shattered. But what caught her attention was the symbol spray—painted on the wall,the same symbol that had been on the note left at the park.
Keila's Heart sank, realizing that this was far from over, buy with Edouard by her side she felt a sense of determination wash over her. She would fight to protect her children,no matter what it took.
"Let's get out of here". Edouard said, his eyes scanning the area."We'll go somewhere safe, somewhere they can't find us".
Keila nodded, her mind racing thoughts of escape and hiding. But as they walked away from the house,she knew that she would never be able to hide from the truth. Her past had caught up with her,and now she had to face it head—on.
Days passed,as they settled into their new safe house, a small apartment on the outskirts of town, Keila had bought.
She was at work, leaving the three at home. Edouard came in to a room they both sat discussing.
"Okay, kids let's get moving". He said, his voice firm but friendly."We have a busy day ahead of us".
Shane and Robyn exchanged a look, their faces unenthused.
"Do we have to"? Robyn asked, his voice laced with disdain."Can't we just stay home and play videogames instead"?
Edouard's expression remained stern."Your mother wants me to keep you safe, and that's exactly what I'm going to do ".
Shane crossed her hands, arms, her eyes rolling."Yeah, because we're just so oOoOO...in danger all the time ".
Edouard's jaw clenched, his patience wearing think "You don't understand the risks,kids. Your mother's past is dangerous, and I'm here to protect you from it".
Shane snorted."Yeah, right. Like you're some kind of super hero or something ".
Edouard's eyes narrowed, his voice firm."I'm here to keep you safe, whether you like it or not. So let's get moving, now"!!!
The kids reluctantly followed him out the door, their body language screaming discontent. Edouard knew it wouldn't be easy, but he was determined to keep them safe, no matter what it took.
As they walked to the car, Shane and Robyn trailed behind Edouard, their feet dragging.
"This is so unfair". Shane muttered" We don't need some boring bodyguard following us around all the time"!
Robyn nodded in agreement."Yeah,it's like mom doesn't trust us to take care of our selves".
Edouard's eyes flicked back to them, his expression stern."Your mother words to make sure you're safe, and that's my job. So let's go in the car and get going and moving ".
The kids reluctantly climbed into the back seat of the blue coloured Chevrolet. Their arms crossed and their faces sullen. Edouard got in behind the wheel and started the engine. His eyes fixed on the road ahead.
As they drove, the tension in the car was palpable. Edouard tried to make small talk, but the kids remained silent, their answers monosyllabic.
Finally, Edouard pulled up to their destination,a museum on the outskirts of town. The kids groaned in unison.
"A museum? Really"? Robyn asked, his voice dripping with disdain.
Edouard's expression remained firm."Your mother wanted you to learn something new today. So let's get out of the car and get inside".
The kids reluctantly followed him into the museum, their eyes scanning the exhibits with disinterest. Edouard kept a cloy eye on them. His gaze scanning the crowds for any signs of danger. As they walked through the galleries, the kids behavior only for worse, they mocked the artwork,made fun of the exhibits, and generally acted out. Edouard patience wore thin, but he remained firm, his eyes fixed on the task at hand. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the museum trip was over, the kids climbed back into the car, their faces still sullen.
"Well that was a complete waste of time". Robyn said, his voice laced with disdain.
Edouard's eyes flicked back at them, his expression stern."Your mother wanted you to learn something new today. I hope you at least learned something".
The kids remained silent, their faces still sullen. Edouard sighed and start the engine, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. It was going to be a long day.
\* \* \* It was a Saturday. Edouard stood watchfully at the front door,his eyes scanning the street outside. As the bodyguard,it was his job to ensure the family's safety, and he took that responsibility seriously. Suddenly, he heard a faint noise behind him, he turned to see shane and Robyn sneaking up on him, their eyes mischievous. "Hey, Edouard, can we go outside and play"? Robyn asked, his voice innocent. Edouard raised an eyebrow."I don't know guys. It's not safe out there". Robyn pouted." But we are so bored! And you're always so serious". Shane replied."Yeah...what's your beef"? Edouard smiled, his expression softening."Okay, okay. But just for a little while,and you have to stay close to me". The kids cheered and raced out the door, Edouard following close behind. As they played in the back yard, Edouard kept a watchful eye. His gaze scanning the surrounding area for any signs of danger. But for a brief moment, he let his guard down and joined in on the fun, laughing and playing with the kids like a big kid himself. Keila watched from the kitchen window, a smile on her face. She was grateful for the small moments of joy in the midst of chaos, and she was grateful for Edouard's dedication to their safety. It was moments like this that reminded her that he was a more than just a bodyguard, he was a friend. LATER THAT DAY
Edouard stood at attention outside the house,his eyes scanning the surrounding streets as the family prepared for a rare night out. Keila emerged from the house, looking stunning in a red dress, her children by her side.
"Ready roy go, Edouard"? She asked, her smile bright. Edouard nodded his eyes never leaving the surrounding.
"Yes ma'am. Let's get you and e kids to the restaurant safely". As they walked to the car, Edouard's eyes scanned the rooftops, the alleys and the passing cars. He knew that danger could lurk anywhere, and he was determined to be prepared.
"You're the only one who makes me feel safe, Edouard". She whispered.
"That because I'm the only one who knows the real you, Keila".
Shane and Robyn chattered excitedly in the back seat as Edouard drove through the city. His eyes constantly checking the rearview mirror.
As they arrived at the restaurant, Edouard got out first, his eyes scanned the area before nodding to Keila and the kids to dolli. Inside Keila was embarrassed by her celebrity as fans were asking for selfies and autograph. Edouard ended it soon, as he took a table near the exit. His eyes never stopping surveillance. Keila leaned over, her voice low."Edouard, you're always so vigilant. Can't you just relax for one night"?
Edouard smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners."My job is to keep you safe Keila. I can't relax until you and the kids are home and secured ".
Keila's eyes softened, her hand reaching out to touch his arm."Thank you Edouard, we're lucky to have you".
Edouard's heart swelled with pride and loyalty. He would do anything to keep this family safe.
``_______________
As the days turned into weeks Edouard and Keila grew closer. They would spend hours talking, sharing stories and laughter. Edouard was amazed by Keila's kindness,her empathy,and her beautiful smile.
Keila,on the other hand,she was drawn to Edouard's sense of humour,his protectiveness and his kind heart.
One evening as they were discussing. Keila turned to Edouard and asked."Can I ask you something"?
"Of course, Keila. What's on your mind"?.
Why do you do this job? I mean, it's so dangerous,why would you want to put yourself in harm's way like that"?
Edouard looked down at her,his eyes serious."I do it because I want to make a difference. I want to help people,to keep them safe. And I I couldn't live with my self If something happened to you or your kids".
Keila's heart skipped a beat. No one had ever said anything so sweet to her before. She felt a flutter in her chest,and she knew in that moment that she was falling for Edouard.
Now turning towards her fully."You know Keila,I really enjoy spending time with you. You're an amazing".
Keila's heart soared."I feel the same way about you, Edouard ". She said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Edouard smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners.
"I'm glad we have each other, Keila. You're a bright light in a dark world".
Keila's heart melted. She knew in that moment, that she was in love with Edouard. But she was too scared to say anything, afraid of running their friendship.
``* * *
As days went by, Edouard and the kids continued to spend time together, despite their initial reservations. They went on outings,played games,and even hai deep conversations. Shane and Robyn began to see Edouard in a diy light, they realized that he wasn't just a boring bodyguard, but a kind and caring person who genuinely wanted to help them.
Edouard too, began to understand the kids better, he saw their strength and their weakness, their fears and dreams. He learned about their favorite foods, hobbies and interests.
One day,as they were walking in the park. Shane turned to Edouard and asked."Why do you do this job? Why do you want to protect us so much"?
"Because I care about guys. I want to make sure you're safe and happy ".
Shay smiled, her eyes sparkling."Thanks.Edourd, that means a lot to me".
The thirteen year old who was walking ahead, turned back and teased."Yeah... Shane's got a crush on you, Edouard"!!
Shane blushed, her face turning red.
Edouard chuckled and ruffled her hair."I'm flattered Shane,but I think I'm a bit too old for you".
As they continued walking, Edouard couldn't help but notice the way Shane looked at him. A look of adoration,and admiration. He pushed the thought aside.
As they approached the safe house, they were ambushed by a group of masked men. Edouard pushed Shane behind him, his gun drawn, but they were out numbered.
In chaos that followed, Edouard was gravely injured and Robyn was been taken captive, as he was dragged away. Shane screamed his name, her heart shattering into a million pieces. The devastating times has just begun.
Edouard was left fighting for his life, as Shane laid unconscious and Robyn was at the mercy of their enemies, would they ever diy their way back to each other. Robyn's world was turned upside down as he was thrown into a dark van, his hands bound behind his back.
"Mom"!!! He screamed, his voice hoarse with fear."Edouard"!!! But his cries were met with silence. The van sped away, leaving Edouard and Shane lying in the street.
—Mean while, Edouard struggled to consciousness, his head throbbing with pain. He struggled and stumbled to his feet his eyes scanning the empty street."Robyn"!! He shouted, his voice, echoing off the buildings. But he was gone. Edouard's heart raced as he carried Shane on his back, stumbling towards the safe house, his mind reeling with fear.
Inside, he found Keila, her face pale with worry."Edouard. What happened? Where's Robyn"?
Edouard's eyes locked on hers, his voice barely audible.
"They took him. I couldn't protect him".
Keila's face crumpled as she realized the devastating truth. Her son was gone, taken by their enemies."Let's get her to a hospital".
``_____________
Keila's eyes locked onto Edouard's as they stood in the dimly lit hospital room, the sound of beeping machines and whispered conversations filling the air. Shane lay in bed, her eyes closed, her face pale.
Edouard's gaze never wavered,his eyes burning with intensity."Am sorry Keila. I failed to protect him".
Keila's face softened,her voice barely above a whisper."It's not your fault, Edouard. You've done everything you could"
As stood there, the tension between them was palpable. Edouard's eyes never left Keila's,his heart pounding in his chest. He felt a flutter in his stomach,a sense of awarenesses hedy never experienced before.
Keila's eyes searched his, her face inches from his.
"Thank you Edouard. Thank you for being here for us".
Their faces drew closer, the air thick with emotion. Edouard's heart raced,his lips almost touching Keila's.
The world around them melted away, leaving only the two of them, suspended in time. He held her curvy waist in his palms. Staring right into her soul, Keila held her breath as the gap between them disappeared.
She wanted to step back from him,so much,but she wasn't finding the courage to. The look in his eyes were so seductive and tempting. She looked down at his lips, then bay to his eyes. The door creaked open to reveal a nurse.
"Oh....am so sorry". She said startling them, making them loose from each other in an embarrassing manner.
Days passed,Shay had gotten well. But Robyn soon to be discovered.
As Edouard and Keila worked together to rescue Robyn, they began to notice small things about each. Edouard admired Keila's strength and determination, while Keila appreciated Edouard's kindness and dedication.
They were reviewing security footage, Edouard found himself stealing glances at Keila. Noticing the way her hair fell in loose waves down her back. He quickly looked away, feeling a flutter in his chest.
Keila took, caught herself gazing at Edouard's profile,his strong jawline and piercings brown eyes,she brushed it off as mere appreciation for his skills as a bodyguard. She took the mouse.
Keila's hand accidentally brushed against Edouard's. The touch sent a spark through both of them, and they exchanged a brief, charged glance.
Embarrassed,Keila quickly apologized and pulled away her hand back. Edouard smiled reassuringly. But his heart raced with a new found awarenesses.
The tension between them was palpable, but they didn't dare acknowledge it. Not yet.
Edouard broke the silence."What keeps you, your strength and resilience are inspiring".
Keila's gaze softened, and she looked away,her voice barely above a whisper."My children, Edouard. They are my everything. I'd do anything to keep them safe".
Edouard's heart swelled with admiration and empathy. He reached out, his hand covering hers in a gentle gesture .
"You are an amazing mother.keila. And an incredible person".
Their eyes met, and the air was chart with a new found intimacy. The world, around them melted away. Leaving only the two of them, suspended in a moment of pure connection.
As Edouard and Keila sat there,lost in the moment, the door creaked open and Shane walked in, their face inches away from each other.
Her eyes widened as she took in the scene before her—Edouard's hand covering her mother's,the look of tender connection between them.
Shane's face flushed with surprise and a hint of discomfort."Uh... sorry to interrupt". She said, her voice barely above a whisper that seemed to waver."I just needed to...get something from the kitchen".
Keila quickly pulled her hand back,hee cheeks flushing with embarrassment."Shane, sweetie, it's okay. We were just... discussing the cast".
Edouard stood up,his eyes never leave Keila's face."I'll get out your way, Shane. I need to check out on some leads anyway".
As Edouard excused himself, Shane's gaze lingered on her mother,a mix of curiosity and concern on her face."Mom is everything okay"?
Keila forced a reassuring smile."Everything's fine, sweetie...Just focus on your studies,okay"?
But Shane's eyes narrowed,her mind racing with questions. What was going on between her mother and Edouard? And why was did it feel like she couldn't deny the tension between her mother and Edouard. And she couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy. Edouard,the man she had grown close to, the one she confided in,was now seemingly drawn to her mother.
The tension in the room was palpable, the unspoken feelings between Keila and Edouard hanging in the air like a challenge, waiting to be addressed.
``* * *
"Mom,can I talk to you for a minute"? Shane asked,her voice laced with a hint of accusation.
Keila sensing something was amiss, followed Shane to the next room."what's going on, sweetie"?
Shane's eyes flashed with emotion."you're flirting with Edouard, aren't you? I saw the way you looked at him,the he looked at you".
Keila's expression softened."Shane, honey... nothing's going on. We art just working together to find Robyn".
But Shane's jealousy had already taken hold."You are always doing this mom.You always steal the attention, even from the men I care about". She said, crying silently.
Keila's eyes widened,hurt by the accusation."Shay. That's not fair. I am just trying to protect our family,dear"!
But Shane's anger and jealousy had already created a rift, a sense of competition between mother and daughter. That neither —knew how to bridge.
Edouard who was quitely standing at the door sensing the tension between Keila and Shane, decided to intervene. He approached them. His voice calm and gentle.
"Hey, what's going on here, I sense some tension"?
Shane's eyes flashed with anger."You're what's going on, Edouard. You're always around my mom, flirting with her, making her laugh. It's like you're trying to replace my dad or something ". She said welling up in tears.
Edouard's expression was understanding. Shane, I'm sorry if my presence has made you uncomfortable. But I assure you,my intentions are pure. I'm just trying to help your family, through a difficult time".
Keila stepped forward,her voice firm but gentle."Shane, sweetie, Edouard is right. He's been a huge help to us, and I appreciate his support. But I promise you, there is nothing romantic going on between us. We are just friends".
Shane's anger slowly gave way to embarrassment and hurt.She felt like she was loosing her mother's attention, like Edouard was somehow taking her place.
Edouard approached Shane, his eyes filled with kindness."Shane,I care about you like a sister. I would never do anything to hurt your mom. We are in this together...as friends".
Shane's expression softened, and she nodded, feeling a mix of emotions. She knew Edouard was telling the truth,but she still felt like she was loosing her mom's attention.