Smart couldn't sleep. He tossed and turned for hours, the sheets tangling around his legs as his mind refused to quiet. Every time he closed his eyes, he saw Rylan — the way his strong hands had gently corrected his stance during training, the quiet warmth in his voice when he said "You're doing good," and especially that lingering look when their eyes had met. Smart's heart fluttered uncomfortably. He had never felt this way about anyone. It was terrifying and exhilarating all at once.
He finally gave up, slipped out of bed, and padded to the music room in his pajamas. The estate was silent except for the distant hum of patrolling guards. Smart picked up his guitar, sat on the couch, and began playing softly — a gentle, melancholic melody that slowly turned hopeful.
He didn't hear Rylan enter.
Rylan had been doing a final perimeter check when he heard the music. Drawn like a moth to flame, he followed the sound until he stood quietly in the doorway, watching Smart play. The younger man's voice was soft and beautiful, wrapping around the notes with raw emotion. Rylan's chest tightened. He couldn't explain the fierce protectiveness he felt toward Smart, but it was there — deep, undeniable, and growing stronger every day.
When the song ended, Smart looked up and startled. "R-Ryan… I didn't know you were here."
Rylan stepped inside, closing the door gently behind him. "I couldn't sleep either. Your voice pulled me in." He crossed the room slowly and sat on the couch beside Smart — close, but not crowding. "It's beautiful. You're beautiful when you sing."
Smart's cheeks flushed deep pink. He set the guitar aside, suddenly very aware of how close they were. "I… I don't usually play for people."
"I'm glad you did for me," Rylan said softly. His usual professional restraint was cracking. He reached out, hesitating only a moment before brushing a stray lock of hair from Smart's forehead. Their eyes locked. The air between them grew thick, charged with something neither had named yet.
Smart's breath hitched. Rylan leaned in slowly, giving him every chance to pull away. But Smart didn't. Instead, he met him halfway.
Their lips touched — soft at first, almost tentative. A gentle press that sent warmth blooming through both of them. Rylan cupped Smart's face with one large hand, tilting his head slightly as the kiss deepened naturally, sweetly. Smart sighed into it, one hand coming up to rest against Rylan's chest, feeling the steady, strong heartbeat there. It wasn't rushed or desperate — it was tender, exploratory, full of quiet longing that had been building for days.
When they finally parted, both were breathing a little heavier. Rylan rested his forehead against Smart's, eyes closed.
"I've been trying to understand why I feel so protective of you," Rylan whispered. "Now I think I know."
Smart smiled shyly, still blushing. "I couldn't stop thinking about you tonight either."
They stayed like that for a long moment, foreheads touching, sharing the same air. No pressure, no demands — just a beautiful, natural beginning.
The next evening, the family gathered again. During dinner, Arthur's sharp eyes caught the glint of the diamond ring on Liam's finger. After the meal, he quietly pulled Jeff aside into his study.
"You proposed to my son," Arthur said, arms crossed, tone measured.
Jeff stood straight. "Yes. On stage, in front of everyone. I love him. I want to spend the rest of my life with him."
Arthur studied him carefully. "What are your plans?"
Jeff didn't hesitate. "Once this threat is over, I'm going to marry him. We'll move out of the country for a while — somewhere quiet and safe. I want to give Liam a real life, away from all this danger. He deserves peace."
Arthur was silent for a long moment. Then he placed a firm hand on Jeff's shoulder.
"You have my blessing. Take care of him. Protect him with everything you have. He's my son… but he's yours now too."
Jeff smiled, relief clear on his face. "Thank you. I won't let you down."
Later that same evening, the most magical moment unfolded in the living room.
Lin had been playing on the soft rug when she suddenly pushed herself up on shaky little legs. Ben gasped. Arthur froze mid-step.
"Come here, baby," Ben encouraged softly, kneeling with open arms.
Lin giggled, took one wobbly step… then another. On the third, she tumbled forward — straight into Arthur's waiting arms.
Arthur caught her gently, lifting her high as he almost screamed "She walked… Ben, our daughter just walked."
Ben rushed over, laughing through happy tears. He wrapped his arms around both of them, kissing Lin's chubby cheeks and then Arthur's lips. The three of them stayed locked in that embrace — a perfect, tender family moment filled with pure joy. Arthur held his daughter close, whispering promises of love and safety, while Ben watched them with overflowing adoration. It was the most beautiful thing they had ever witnessed.
That night, after everyone had gone to bed, Rylan found Smart again in the music room. Without words, Smart set his guitar aside and stepped closer. This time, when Rylan leaned in, the kiss came naturally — slower, deeper, full of quiet affection. Smart melted into it, hands resting on Rylan's broad chest.
When they pulled apart, Rylan smiled softly. "I'm here. For as long as you want me."
Smart's blush was radiant. "I want you here."
Then he pulled away "but then my brother would kill me"
Ryan knew this too, he had just risked too much, he was here to work not to fall in love with anyone but smart had him hooked.