Chapter 8: He’ll Play The Part
(TYLER)
Dread jolts through me when I realize they are actually following me. I up my pace, trying to get as far away from them as I can, knowing all too well that it's impossible because I'm walking and they have a car. It's a futile endeavor, really. I couldn't have crossed paths with them anywhere, which taunts me because I don't understand why they are following me.
If the Triple Triads have zeroed in on me for any reason, I'm sure there won't be a single soul at the homeless shelter who'll stand up and against them and defend me. They wouldn't even if they wanted to. Still, I have strong survival instincts. I don't wait for them to catch me. I'll take my chances at running away then deliberately surrendering myself to these men, so I do what I do best, run.
I hear the SUV engines revving and cut into the alley right in front of me, blocking my path. I freeze and stop in my tracks. My pulse has gone haywire and my chest burns so that I can barely draw a breath in my lungs.
When the driver steps out, I notice it is the burly suit guy from the diner. He goes and opens the passenger backdoor without looking at me. I catch sight of polished fancy shoes as an expensive-looking alpha steps out of the car.
Never once have I met the leader of the Triple Triad Syndicate. He's built quite a reputation for himself, and not once have I heard stories of his ruthlessness and how he rules by a fist. I have seen his pictures though, so I know what he looks like.
The alpha exiting the car looks much like the leader, and even though he is much younger, they have strikingly similar features. They have a defined jawline, a hawkish nose, and full lips.
Even though I am beyond terrified, I have to admit this is the most gorgeous man I've ever seen in my entire life. He looks stunning even in the dim light. His tawny skin, his long hair. His hazel eyes. It's the look in his eyes that makes my heart almost stop. They are sharp, and piercing, and seem to be looking right through me.
Why would we want to talk to me? I have no idea. Whatever it is, I'm sure it can't be for a good reason. Nothing good ever comes from associating yourself with the mafia. I'm still terrified, so when I notice him come towards me, I lunge back and start going around the car.