chapter 11

As the conversation came to a close, Mark's expression remained firm, his eyes boring into Kelvin's very soul. "So, here's the deal," Mark said, his voice low and even. "You're going to pay Liam every single penny you've cheated him out of. Every last cent."

Kelvin's face went pale, his eyes wide with fear. He knew he had no choice, not if he wanted to keep his precious cafe. He nodded hastily, his hands shaking as he reached for his checkbook.

Mark's eyes never left Kelvin's face as he waited for the man to write out the check. When Kelvin finally handed it over, Mark took it from him, his eyes scanning the amount to make sure it was correct.

Only when he was satisfied that Kelvin had paid Liam in full did Mark nod, a small, cold smile playing on his lips. "Good," he said. "Now, I'll let you keep your cafe. But let me make one thing very clear: if you ever, ever mistreat anyone who works for you again, you'll answer to me. Do I make myself clear?"

Kelvin nodded, his eyes wide with fear. He knew he had just been given a second chance, and he was determined not to blow it.

As they drove away from the cafe, Mark's hand closed around Liam's, his fingers intertwining with Liam's in a warm, comforting grasp. Mark's other hand rested on the steering wheel, his eyes fixed on the road ahead as he navigated the traffic.

Liam, meanwhile, gazed out the window, his eyes fixed on the passing scenery as he struggled to process his emotions. He felt a mix of relief and anxiety, his mind racing with thoughts of what lay ahead. He knew that he would have to face Martha eventually, and the thought filled him with dread.

But as he looked down at Mark's hand, wrapped around his own, he felt a surge of determination. He whispered to himself, "This will be different." He knew that he wasn't alone this time, that Mark was by his side, and that gave him the strength to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Mark, sensing Liam's tension, gave his hand a gentle squeeze. "Hey, it's okay," he said softly. "I'm here for you. We'll face whatever comes next together, okay?" Liam nodded, feeling a lump form in his throat as he looked over at Mark. He knew that he could count on Mark to be there for him, no matter what.

As the car pulled into the city, the neon lights of the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets cast a vibrant glow over the darkening landscape. The sound of honking horns, chatter, and music filled the air, a cacophony of noise that was both familiar and comforting.

Inside the car, Liam was fast asleep, his head resting against the window as the gentle motion of the vehicle rocked him into a peaceful slumber. Mark glanced over at him, a soft smile spreading across his face as he took in the sight of his lover's tranquil features.

The city lights cast a warm, golden glow over Liam's face, illuminating the gentle curves of his cheeks and the soft, parted lips. Mark's heart swelled with love and adoration as he gazed at Liam, feeling grateful to have him back by his side.