I almost break. Almost confess everything right here in his arms.
But I can’t. Can’t drag this family into our nightmare. Can’t let Dom’s reach extend to them.
So I just nod against his shoulder.
Dimitri holds me for another moment. Then releases me. But his hand lingers on my face. That look. The one that saysI see you. I know something’s wrong. And when you’re ready, I’m here.
Sofia hugs us both. Makes the sign of the cross over our heads three times. Mutters prayers in Greek. Protection spells. Whatever she can do to keep us safe from whatever she senses coming.
My mom hugs me last. “Call me this week,” she says. Not a request. A demand. Her English teacher voice.
“I will.”
“I mean it, Dylan. Don’t make me come to your apartment.”
“I’ll call.”
She studies my face. Knows I’m lying. Hugs me anyway. Holds on longer than necessary.
“I love you,” she whispers. “Whatever this is. I love you.”
I can’t speak. Just nod.
Maya and Nikko walk us to the door. Eleni is asleep on Maya’s shoulder now, exhausted from the dinner. Little head resting in that perfect baby way.
“Drive safe,” Maya says. But her eyes sayare you sure you’re okay?
Nikko says nothing. Just looks at Alex. Then at me. That big brother look that saysI’m here. I’m watching. I’ll help. You know my rate.
We nod. Thank them. Promise to see them next week.
The lie tastes like ash.
Outside, January air hits like a slap.
The restaurant warmth disappears immediately. Just cold and dark and the city breathing around us.
Alex walks beside me toward the train stop. Neither of us speaks for half a block.
Then she stops. Turns. Looks back.
Dimitri is standing in the restaurant doorway. Backlit by warm light. Watching us leave. That protective father stance. Hands in his pockets. Not moving until we’re out of sight.
“We can’t tell them,” Alex whispers.
“I know.”
“If something happens to us?—”
“Nothing will happen.”
“Dylan—”
“Nothing will happen,” I repeat. Firmer. “We’re careful. We’re smart. We’ll figure this out.”
But neither of us believes it.
We turn. Keep walking. Away from the safety of Aegean Dreams. Away from the family who would die to protect us. Away from the warmth and love and Sunday dinners.
