Chapter 11: The Dollar signs

Suddenly, Leia turned her back to the door and said, "Sorry... I am leaving."

As she took a step to walk away, Axe grabbed her wrist, his grip tight but gentle. When she turned to look at him, her eyes filled with frustration and hurt, he let out a heavy sigh.

Without a word, he led her into the house, his grip on her wrist never loosening. They walked past Mia, who watched them with wide eyes, her towel wrapped tightly around her trembling form.

Not looking back, Axe guided Leia upstairs, his footsteps echoing, until they reached his bedroom, and he led her inside, then shut the door behind them.

The room was dimly lit, the soft glow of the bedside lamp casting shadows on the walls. The air was heavy with tension, suffocating both Axe and Leia as they stood facing each other, their emotions threatening to spill over.

"Do you know what time it is?!" Axe lashed out, as he ran his fingers through his already disheveled hair, frustration evident on his face.

"I called you, and you didn'