Crossing lines (Noah and Aiden) novel Chapter 208

Chapter 208

“Yes, sir,” I replied, my voice steady but distant.

The moment I stepped outside, the biting cold air struck my face sharply, almost like a sudden slap. For a brief second, the chill felt oddly refreshing—grounding me in reality. The car parked before me—my car, at least in name—shimmered beneath the pale winter sunlight, its sleek surface gleaming as if it belonged in some glossy advertisement.

Lexie was already sliding into the passenger seat, her cheeks flushed with excitement that radiated from her like waves of warmth. Her energy was infectious, and yet, I found myself hesitating. Keys in hand, I paused, catching my own reflection in the darkened window.

A brand-new car. A stunning fiancée. What should have been a perfect life.

But in that moment, I felt an emptiness so profound it swallowed everything else whole.

Lexie leaned toward me through the open window, her voice light and teasing. “Come on, Noah! What are you waiting for?”

I forced a smile, trying to mask the turmoil inside. “Just soaking it all in, princess.”

The engine rumbled to life beneath me, tires crunching over the fresh snow as we pulled away from the house. Through the rearview mirror, I caught a glimpse of William standing in the doorway, his hands folded behind his back, his posture regal—like a king surveying his domain with quiet pride.

And in that instant, I thought, Fine. You win.

Yet, beneath the surface of my forced grin for Lexie, a deeper truth lingered: no matter what, I would never fully escape the hold of the man whose trust I had shattered.

The drive into town felt strangely ordinary, almost like two kids sneaking away from a castle for a brief escape. The road stretched ahead, flanked by pine trees dusted in fresh snow, their branches heavy and white. When we finally arrived at the Christmas fair, the world seemed transformed—twinkling lights hung everywhere, laughter filled the crisp air, and the mingling scents of sugar and smoke wrapped around us like a comforting blanket.

Lexie’s eyes sparkled as she gazed out the window. “You brought me here?”

“Yeah,” I said, genuine warmth creeping into my voice. “Thought you deserved to experience a real Christmas, not just another stiff charity gala.”

“Noah.” Her voice broke softly. “You don’t understand.”

I frowned, confusion knitting my brows. “What do you mean?”

“My father isn’t just protective,” she said quietly, though her tone was steady. “He’s controlling. Obsessive. When he wants something, he takes it—no matter who it hurts.” She swallowed hard, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “He’s not always kind, babe. Not if you cross him.”

I blinked, unsure how to respond. “But how could you cross him? You’re his whole world.”

She let out a short, breathy laugh that carried no joy. “I wasn’t always the perfect daughter.”

I leaned in closer, curiosity and concern mingling in my gaze. “Okay. Talk to me.”