Peter led Sophie and Alex Jr. down the hallway toward the room where Leo and Steve were waiting. His heart was heavy, filled with worry and a gnawing sense of guilt. He knew that whatever had happened to Sophie and her family, it was only the beginning of a deeper, more twisted story. But he was determined to protect her now—and to help her find answers.
As they approached the room, Peter noticed how tense Sophie looked. She held herself stiffly, her face void of emotion, but her eyes scanned every corner, every shadow, as if she were prepared for an ambush. Alex Jr., clinging to her side, mirrored her vigilance, his young face solemn and guarded. They both looked like soldiers returning from a war, haunted but resilient.
Peter pushed open the door, revealing the grand meeting room bathed in dim light. Seated at the large table were Steve and his son, Leo. Steve, with his graying hair and steady presence, watched as they entered, his gaze soft but intensely observant. Leo, younger but equally serious, leaned back in his chair, his sharp eyes studying Sophie with an expression that was equal parts curiosity and respect.
Steve stood up first, extending his hand to Sophie. "Sophie," he said warmly, his voice as gentle as Peter had remembered. "It's been too long. I'm glad you're here."
Sophie hesitated, then took his hand with a polite nod. Her grip was firm but impersonal, her gaze unreadable. "Thank you," she replied, her voice almost emotionless. "I'm grateful for the help. I know it's complicated."
Steve nodded, acknowledging the weight of her words. "We'll get to the bottom of it, Sophie. For now, let's focus on getting you and Alex Jr. settled and safe."
Leo leaned forward, his eyes never leaving Sophie. There was something intense in his gaze, a spark of interest that hadn't been there before. Sophie noticed it, but her face remained a blank slate, her eyes cold and distant. Leo couldn't help but be intrigued. She was like no one he had ever met—her strength evident, yet there was an impenetrable wall around her.
"Sophie," Leo said, his voice calm but sharp, "I've read about what you went through, but I'd like to hear your story firsthand when you're ready."
Sophie didn't flinch. Her gaze met his with a steady resilience that almost startled him. "I'll tell you everything you need to know," she replied, her voice unwavering. "But understand this—I'm not here to seek sympathy. I'm here for answers and to protect Alex Jr."
Leo nodded, a slight smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Fair enough. But we'll help you however we can, and you'll have our protection."
Peter interjected, his tone firm. "That's all I ask. Sophie and Alex Jr. have lost enough. They need time to recover, and I expect both of you to respect that."
Steve nodded in agreement, his gaze shifting to Alex Jr. "And young Alex," he said with a kind smile, kneeling down to the boy's level. "You're safe here, son. You're part of our family now, and we protect our own."
Alex Jr. looked at Steve, his eyes serious beyond his years. He nodded slowly. "I'll protect Aunt Sophie," he said, repeating his promise, his small hand tightening around hers.
Steve's eyes softened, and he looked back at Peter. "This boy has strength, just like his aunt."
Peter put a hand on Alex Jr.'s shoulder, squeezing it reassuringly. "You'll have all of us here for you, Alex. You're not alone."
The group fell silent, and for a moment, an unspoken understanding passed between them. They were bound by more than just blood or loyalty; they were bound by a shared commitment to protect and uncover the truth, no matter the cost.
After a beat, Leo spoke again, his eyes lingering on Sophie. "Tomorrow, we'll start going over everything we know about the Turner tragedy and your imprisonment. Together, we'll piece it all together."
Sophie inclined her head, her gaze steady. "Thank you. I'm ready."
The meeting adjourned, and Peter guided Sophie and Alex Jr. to their quarters. As they walked down the dim hallway, Peter's heart felt a small measure of relief. They were safe now, for the moment. And with Leo and Steve's support, they might finally begin to untangle the mystery that had shattered their lives.