Chapter 5 - A New Dawn at Ashford’s DinerKnox didn't bother wasting another glance at the weeping, shattered Whitmore family. He turned back toward Belle.
The young woman remained seated, holding Caesar tightly, staring in utter disbelief at the man who had completely flipped the power structure of an entire city in less than five minutes.
Knox shrugged off his expensive designer coat and gently draped it over Belle's trembling shoulders. The warmth of his body transferred to hers, carrying the clean scent of cedarwood and absolute safety.
"Don't be afraid," Knox softened his voice, showing a rare gentleness meant only for those connected to his past. "This diner belongs to you now. No one will ever touch it—or you—again."
He gestured to Marcus. "Get top-tier medical teams here immediately. Fly in the best veterinarian in the state by helicopter. If Caesar doesn't make it, every single piece of trash in Crestwood will pay with their lives."
"Yes, boss."
Belle looked up through tear-blurred eyes, her voice raspy: "Why... why are you helping me?"
Knox looked down at the Mastiff, whose eyes were now closed as it breathed more steadily in her arms, then looked deep into Belle's eyes.
May you like
"Because you protected what mattered most to me. And from today on... it's my turn to protect you and this place."
Outside, the first light of dawn began to break over the Crestwood coastline, chasing away the heavy darkness and opening a brand-new chapter for Belle Ashford and anyone brave enough to stand on the side of compassion.
