Cherreads

Chapter 16 - Chapter 16: Marry me

Akira's grip on Lia tightened as he pulled her close, his eyes blazing with determination. "We'll take down Ama, and we'll keep you safe," he repeated, his voice low and fierce.

Lia's heart swelled with emotion as she gazed up at him, her love for him growing stronger by the minute. She knew she could count on him, no matter what.

Flee's phone beeped, and she answered, her expression growing more serious by the second. "Sir, it's getting worse. Ama's hired a team of mercenaries to track down Lia. They're closing in."

Akira's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched. "Get the team on it, Flee. We need to move now."

Lia's mind was racing, her thoughts a jumbled mess of fear and determination. She knew she couldn't let Ama win, not now, not ever.

Sylvester's voice came through the phone, his tone cold and calculated. "Lia, I can try to hack into Ama's system, see if I can get any information on her plans. But I need you to trust me."

Lia's eyes locked onto Akira's, and she knew she had to make a decision. "Do it, Sylvester. Do whatever it takes to stop Ama."

Akira's lips crashed onto hers, the kiss fierce and passionate. "I won't let anything happen to you, Lia. I promise."

As they broke apart, Lia felt a sense of determination wash over her. She was ready to face Ama, ready to take back control of her life. Bring it on, Ama. I'm ready for you.The stormy night raged on, mirroring the turmoil brewing within Lia's heart as Ama's sinister presence threatened to engulf her fragile world. Akira's strong arms wrapped around her, a beacon of hope in the darkness, as they huddled together, strategizing their next move.

Flee's voice was a hushed whisper, her eyes darting nervously around the room. "Sir, Sylvester's hacked into Ama's system. He's sending over the files now."

Lia's heart skipped a beat as she watched Akira's eyes scan the documents, his expression growing grimmer by the minute. The air was thick with tension, heavy with the weight of Ama's malevolent intentions.

"It's worse than we thought," Akira growled, his voice like thunder. "Ama's not just after revenge, she's after Lia's inheritance. She's been manipulating people, using them to get closer to you, Lia."

Lia's world spun, her mind reeling with the revelation. She felt like she was drowning in a sea of deceit, with no lifeline in sight. Akira's grip on her tightened, his eyes burning with a fierce determination.

"We'll stop her, Lia. We'll expose her for the monster she is."

As they spoke, the sound of footsteps echoed outside, growing louder with every passing second. Lia's heart froze, her eyes locked onto Akira's. They knew Ama's goons were closing in, and they had to act fast.

Akira's lips crashed onto Lia's, the kiss fierce and desperate. "We'll fight, Lia. We'll fight for our love, for our future."

The door burst open, and Ama's henchmen stormed in, their faces twisted with malice. Lia's heart pounded, her eyes locked onto Akira's, as they prepared for battle.

But just as the henchmen were about to pounce, a figure emerged from the shadows, a sleek gun gliding effortlessly into their hands. Sylvester, Lia's trusted ally, stood tall, his eyes cold and deadly.

"I've got your back, Lia," he growled, his voice a low rumble.

The room erupted into chaos, the sound of gunfire and screams filling the air. Lia's heart was racing, her world spinning out of control. But with Akira and Sylvester by her side, she knew they could face anything, even the devil herself.

Ama's laughter echoed through the room, her eyes blazing with fury. "You may have won this battle, Lia, but I'll win the war. You're no match for me."

Lia smiled, her heart full of defiance. "We'll see about that, Ama. We'll see about that."The battle raged on, the sound of gunfire and screams filling the air as Lia, Akira, and Sylvester fought for their lives. Ama's henchmen were relentless, but they were no match for the trio's combined skills and determination.

Lia's heart was racing, her mind focused on survival as she dodged bullets and kicked her way through the chaos. Akira was by her side, his eyes blazing with fury as he took down enemy after enemy.

Sylvester was a force to be reckoned with, his gun blazing as he cleared a path through the room. Lia's eyes met his, and she nodded in gratitude, her heart swelling with appreciation for his timely intervention.

As the fight wore on, the tide began to turn in their favor. Ama's henchmen were falling, one by one, until finally, it was just Ama herself, standing tall and defiant in the midst of the carnage.

Her eyes blazed with fury, her face twisted with rage. "You'll pay for this, Lia," she spat, her voice venomous. "You'll pay for ruining everything."

Akira stepped forward, his eyes cold and hard. "It's over, Ama. You're not going to hurt Lia or anyone else ever again."

Ama sneered, her eyes flashing with contempt. "You think this is the end? I'll be back, and next time, I won't be so easy to stop."

With a snirk of her wrist, Ama activated a device on her watch, and the room was plunged into darkness. The sound of explosions echoed through the air, and Lia felt herself being lifted off the ground, Akira's arms wrapping around her as they were swept away in a whirlwind of chaos.

As the world around her descended into madness, Lia's heart clheld fast to one thought: she would survive this, and she would bring Ama to justice.

When the dust finally settled, Lia found herself in a dimly lit alleyway, Akira's arms still wrapped tightly around her. Sylvester stood guard, his gun trained on the entrance, his eyes scanning the shadows.

"It's not over," he growled, his voice low and urgent. "Ama's gone underground, but she'll be back. We need to get Lia to a safe house, now."

Akira's eyes met Lia's, his face set in a determined expression. "We'll get through this, Lia. We'll get through this together."

And with that, they melted into the night, a trio of fugitives on the run from the most powerful and ruthless enemy they had ever faced.As they navigated the dark and winding alleys, Lia's mind was racing with questions. What had Ama planned? How had she managed to escape? And what was the device she had activated before disappearing?

Akira's grip on her hand was firm, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a fierce intensity. Sylvester walked ahead, his gun at the ready, his senses on high alert.

They moved swiftly and silently, their footsteps echoing off the walls as they made their way to the safe house. Lia's heart was pounding in her chest, her breath coming in short gasps.

Finally, they reached the safe house, a nondescript building tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. Sylvester unlocked the door, and Akira pulled Lia inside, slamming the door shut behind them.

The room was dimly lit, the only sound the soft hum of the air conditioning. Lia's eyes adjusted slowly, taking in the sparse but functional decor. It was a place designed for people who needed to disappear, and she felt a shiver run down her spine as she realized that she was now one of them.

Akira pulled her close, his arms wrapping around her like a shield. "You're safe now, Lia," he whispered, his voice low and soothing. "We've got you."

Sylvester cleared his throat, his eyes serious. "We need to debrief, Akira. Figure out what we're up against."

Akira nodded, his eyes never leaving Lia's face. "We'll do it together. We'll figure this out, Lia. We'll take down Ama, and we'll get your life back."

Lia nodded, a sense of determination rising up within her. She was tired of running, tired of hiding. It was time to take the fight to Ama, and she knew that with Akira and Sylvester by her side, she could face anything.

The three of them sat down at a small table, surrounded by maps and documents, and began to plan their next move. The game was on, and Lia was ready to play.The three of them pored over the documents, their eyes scanning the pages as they pieced together Ama's plan. Lia's mind was sharp, her thoughts clear as she analyzed the information.

"Look at this," Sylvester said, pointing to a document. "Ama's been secretly buying up property in the city, using shell companies to cover her tracks."

Akira's eyes narrowed. "She's planning something big. What's the connection between the properties?"

Lia's eyes scanned the pages, her brow furrowed in concentration. "They're all located near the city's major transportation hubs - the airport, the seaport, the train station..."

Akira's eyes snapped up, his face grim. "She's planning to make a move, use the transportation hubs to get her products out of the country."

Sylvester's eyes widened, his face pale. "You think she's planning to sell the contraband abroad?"

Lia's voice was firm, her eyes locked onto Akira's. "We need to stop her, Akira. We can't let her get away with this."

Akira's face was set, his jaw clenched. "We'll stop her, Lia. We'll do whatever it takes."

As they continued to plan, Lia's phone suddenly buzzed, breaking the tension. She hesitated, unsure whether to answer it, but something told her she should.

"Hello?" she said, her voice cautious.

Ama's voice slithered through the phone, cold and menacing. "Lia, darling. I see you're still managing to stay one step ahead of me. But it's only a matter of time before I catch up with you."

Lia's grip on the phone tightened, her eyes flashing with defiance. "You'll never win, Ama. We'll stop you."

Ama's laughter was like ice, sending a chill down Lia's spine. "We'll see about that, dear. I'll be seeing you soon."

The phone went dead, and Lia's eyes met Akira's, her heart pounding in her chest. "It's on," she whispered.

Akira's face was grim, his eyes burning with determination. "It's on," he repeated.The tension in the room was palpable as Lia, Akira, and Sylvester digested the news. Ama's message was clear: she was closing in, and she wouldn't stop until she got what she wanted.

Sylvester's eyes were narrowed, his mind racing. "We need to move, now. We can't wait for Ama to make her next move."

Akira nodded, his eyes locked onto Lia's. "We'll get you to a safe location, and then we'll take the fight to Ama."

Lia shook her head, her voice firm. "No, Akira. I'm not running anymore. I'm fighting back, with you."

Akira's face softened, his eyes burning with love and admiration. "I knew you'd say that, Lia. We'll fight together, always."

As they prepared to leave, Lia's phone buzzed again. She hesitated, unsure whether to answer it, but Akira's eyes urged her on.

"It's Ama," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Akira's face was grim. "Put it on speaker."

Lia's finger hovered over the button before she pressed it, Ama's voice filling the room.

"Lia, darling, I think it's time we had a little chat. Face to face. Meet me at the old warehouse on Lagos Street at midnight. Come alone."

Ama's laughter echoed through the phone, sending a chill down Lia's spine.

The phone went dead, and Lia's eyes met Akira's. "It's a trap," they said in unison.

Sylvester's eyes were narrowed. "We can't let her get away with this. We need to take her down, now."

Akira's face was set, his eyes burning with determination. "We'll take her down, all right. But we'll do it on our terms, not hers."

As they began to plan their next move, Lia felt a sense of calm wash over her. She knew they were in this together, and together, they would face whatever Ama threw their way.

The clock was ticking, and the stage was set for a showdown between Lia and Ama. The question was, who would emerge victorious?The three of them huddled around the table, poring over maps and documents as they planned their next move. Sylvester was hacking into the city's security systems, trying to get a feed of the warehouse and Ama's expected movements.

Akira's eyes were locked onto Lia's, his face set in a determined expression. "We'll take a team of five, including Sylvester and myself. We'll go in quiet, take out Ama's guards, and get you out of there safely."

Lia shook her head, her voice firm. "No, Akira. I'm not staying behind. I'm going in with you."

Akira's face was stern, but Lia could see the love and concern in his eyes. "Lia, it's too dangerous. I can't risk losing you."

Lia's expression softened, her eyes locked onto Akira's. "I know, Akira. But I'm not going to let Ama win. I'm fighting for my life, and I'm fighting with you."

Akira's face was torn, but he knew he couldn't change Lia's mind. He nodded, his eyes burning with determination. "Okay, Lia. We'll go in together. But you have to promise me one thing: you'll do exactly what I say, when I say it. No heroics, no taking unnecessary risks."

Lia nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "I promise, Akira. I'll be careful."

As they finalized their plan, the clock ticked down to midnight. The team of five, including Lia and Akira, set out into the night, their hearts pounding with anticipation and fear.

They arrived at the warehouse, a hulking mass of steel and concrete in the darkness. Sylvester worked his magic, hacking into the security systems and disabling the cameras.

Akira's grip on Lia's hand was firm as they crept inside, their eyes adjusting to the dim light. The air was thick with the scent of dust and decay, and Lia could hear the sound of footsteps echoing through the warehouse.

Ama's voice was like ice, sending a chill down Lia's spine. "Welcome, Lia. I've been waiting for you."

Lia's eyes scanned the room, her heart pounding in her chest. Where was Ama? And what was she planning?Lia's eyes scanned the room, her heart racing with anticipation. Ama's voice seemed to be coming from all directions, echoing off the walls of the warehouse.

Akira's grip on her hand tightened, his eyes scanning the shadows. "Stay close, Lia," he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Suddenly, lights flickered to life, illuminating the warehouse. Lia's eyes widened as she took in the scene before her. Ama stood at the far end of the room, a triumphant smile spreading across her face.

The room was filled with crates and boxes, all bearing the logo of a prominent shipping company. Lia's eyes narrowed, her mind racing with the implications.

Ama's laughter was like music, sending a chill down Lia's spine. "Welcome to my little operation, Lia. You're just in time to see the fruits of my labor."

Akira's eyes were cold, his face set in a determined expression. "It's over, Ama. You're not going to get away with this."

Ama's smile never wipped, her eyes glinting with triumph. "Oh, I think I will, Akira. You see, I have a little insurance policy. Lia's life, to be exact."

Lia's heart skipped a beat as Ama nodded to one of her henchmen. The man stepped forward, a gun pressed to the head of a young woman Lia had never seen before.

"Meet my new friend, Lia," Ama said, her voice dripping with malice. "She's a lot like you, really. Desperate, vulnerable... and about to do exactly what I tell her to do."

The henchman cocked the gun, his eyes cold and dead. Lia's heart was racing, her mind racing with options. What could she do? How could she save this innocent woman?

Akira's voice was low, his eyes locked onto Ama's. "Let her go, Ama. This is between you and me."

Ama's laughter was the last thing Lia heard before chaos erupted. The henchman pulled the trigger, and Lia's world slowed to a crawl...Lia's eyes scanned the room, her heart racing with anticipation. Ama stood at the far end of the warehouse, a cold smile spreading across her face.

"Welcome, Lia," Ama repeated, her voice dripping with malice. "I've been waiting for you. I see you've brought your little friends with you."

Akira's grip on Lia's hand tightened, his eyes locked onto Ama's. "We're not here to play games, Ama. We're here to stop you."

Ama's laughter echoed through the warehouse, sending a shiver down Lia's spine. "Stop me? Oh, Akira, you're so predictable. I've been planning this for months, and you're just walking into my trap like a lamb to the slaughter."

Lia's eyes narrowed, her mind racing with possibilities. She knew Ama was trying to distract them, but from what?

Suddenly, Sylvester's voice came through the comms device in Akira's ear. "Akira, I've detected a package in the warehouse. It's a bomb, set to go off in five minutes."

Akira's face was grim, his eyes locked onto Ama's. "It's over, Ama. You've lost."

Ama's smile faltered, her eyes flashing with anger. "No, it's not over. It's just beginning."

The warehouse erupted into chaos as Ama's henchmen emerged from the shadows, guns blazing. Lia and Akira sprang into action, their training kicking in as they fought to take down the henchmen.

Lia's heart was pounding, her mind focused on survival. She knew they had to get out of there, and fast, before the bomb went off.

Akira's voice was in her ear, his words calm and steady. "Lia, we need to move, now. Sylvester's got the bomb under control, but we need to get out of here."

Lia nodded, her eyes scanning the room for a way out. But as she turned to follow Akira, she saw Ama, a gun pointed directly at her.

"It's over, Lia," Ama spat, her voice venomous. "You're going to die, and I'm going to watch."

Lia's heart froze, her eyes locked onto Ama's. This was it. It was all coming down to this moment.A split second was all it took for Akira to spring into action, his body a blur as he pushed Lia to the ground, shielding her from the line of fire. The sound of gunshots echoed through the warehouse, Sylvester's gun returning fire as he took down Ama's henchmen.

Lia's heart was racing, her mind reeling with fear as she watched Akira's eyes scan the room, his face set in a fierce expression. The young woman, the one Ama had threatened, was scrambling to get away from the henchman, her eyes wide with terror.

Ama's laughter was like a cold wind, sending a chill down Lia's spine. "You can't save her, Akira," she taunted, her voice echoing off the walls. "You can't save anyone."

Akira's eyes locked onto Ama's, his face twisted with fury. "You're going down, Ama," he growled, his voice low and menacing.

The battle raged on, the sound of gunfire and screams filling the air. Lia knew she had to act, and fast. She scrambled to her feet, her eyes scanning the room for a way out.

That's when she saw her - the young woman, Ama's insurance policy, making a break for the door. Lia's heart went out to her, and she knew she had to help.

"Akira, I've got her!" she shouted, sprinting after the woman.

Akira's eyes flashed with concern, but he knew he had to trust Lia. He nodded, his gun trained on Ama as Lia and the woman made a break for the door.

They burst out into the cool night air, the sound of sirens echoing in the distance. Lia's heart was pounding, her breath coming in short gasps as she pulled the woman to safety.

"It's okay," she whispered, her eyes scanning the woman's face. "You're safe now."

The woman's eyes locked onto Lia's, her face twisted with fear. "Who are you?" she whispered, her voice trembling.

Lia's face softened, her heart going out to the woman. "I'm Lia," she said, her voice gentle. "And I'm here to help you."

As they huddled together, waiting for the police to arrive, Lia knew that this was far from over. Ama was still out there, and she would stop at nothing to get what she wanted.

But Lia was ready. She had Akira, she had Sylvester, and she had a new ally in this young woman. Together, they would take down Ama, no matter what it took.As Lia and Akira stood together, waiting for the police to arrive, she felt a sudden wave of discomfort wash over her. At first, she tried to brush it off, but the feeling intensified, and she began to feel dizzy and disoriented.

"Akira, I...I don't feel well," she stammered, her voice barely audible over the sound of the sirens.

Akira's face transformed from concern to alarm as he caught Lia's elbow, just as she began to sway. "Lia, what's happening?" he asked, his voice urgent.

But before she could respond, Lia's eyes fluttered closed, and she went limp in Akira's arms. He scooped her up, panic etched on his face, and shouted for Sylvester to call for medical help.

The young woman, still clinging to Lia's arm, let out a startled cry as Akira swept Lia's lifeless form into his arms. "What's wrong with her?" she asked, her voice trembling.

Sylvester was already on the phone, barking orders to the emergency services. "Get the paramedics here, now!" he shouted, his eyes scanning the area for any signs of danger.

Akira's face was set in a determined expression as he crushed Lia to his chest, his heart racing with fear. "Lia, baby, stay with me," he whispered, his voice trembling with emotion.

The paramedics arrived, and Lia was rushed to the hospital, Akira by her side. The young woman, still shaken, was taken care of by Sylvester, who promised to stay with her until she was safe.

As Lia was wheeled into the emergency room, Akira's eyes locked onto the doctor's, his face etched with worry. "What's happening?" he asked, his voice low and urgent.

The doctor's expression was calm, but Akira could see the concern lurking beneath the surface. "We'll take good care of her, Mr. Akira. But we need to run some tests."

Akira's grip on Lia's hand tightened as he nodded, his heart racing with fear. What was happening to the woman he loved?

The doctor's words came back to haunt him: "We'll know more when we get the test results..."

Akira's mind was racing with worst-case scenarios when the doctor finally emerged, a gentle smile on his face. "Mr. Akira, you have a reason to celebrate. Your partner is going to be just fine. She's pregnant, and the baby is healthy."

Akira's face lit up with joy, and he dropped to his knees, his heart overflowing with gratitude. "A baby?" he whispered, his voice trembling with emotion.

The doctor nodded, his eyes shining with happiness. "A baby, Mr. Akira. Congratulations, you're going to be a father."Akira's eyes locked onto Lia's, his face alight with joy, as the doctor continued to explain the situation. "The fainting spell was caused by a combination of stress, exhaustion, and the pregnancy itself. We need to make sure she gets plenty of rest and takes care of herself from now on."

Lia's eyes fluttered open, and she smiled weakly at Akira, her face pale but radiant. "A baby?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Akira's face crumbled, and he buried his face in her hair, his body shaking with emotion. "We're having a baby, Lia. We're going to be parents."

The hospital room was filled with a warm, golden light, as if the universe itself was celebrating the news. Lia's hand cradled her still-flat stomach, a sense of wonder and awe spreading through her.

Sylvester, the young woman, and the police officers who had arrived at the hospital all beamed with joy, offering their congratulations and well-wishes.

But amidst the celebration, Akira's eyes remained locked onto Lia's, his face etched with a fierce determination. "We'll keep you safe, Lia. We'll keep our baby safe. No matter what it takes."

Lia's eyes sparkled with tears, her heart full to bursting. She knew that Akira would do just that - protect her and their unborn child with every fiber of his being.

As the night wore on, and the news of Lia's pregnancy spread, Akira's phone began to buzz with messages and calls from friends and family, all eager to offer their congratulations.

But Akira's eyes never left Lia's face, his love and adoration for her and their unborn child shining like a beacon in the darkness.

And as they settled in for a long night of rest and recovery, Lia knew that she was exactly where she was meant to be - surrounded by the people she loved, and the love of her life, Akira.

The battle with Ama may be far from over, but for now, Lia and Akira could bask in the joy of their new beginning, their hearts full of hope and love for the future.After Lia was discharged from the hospital, Akira took her home, where they began to prepare for the arrival of their baby. The house was filled with the sweet scent of baby products and the soft hum of excitement.

As they unpacked the last of the baby's things, Akira's phone rang, and he smiled as he answered it. "Mom!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with joy.

Lia's eyes met Akira's, and she smiled, knowing that his family was finally coming home. Akira's mom, dad, and sister had been living overseas for years, and Lia was eager to meet them.

Akira's face lit up with excitement as he chatted with his mom, his eyes sparkling with happiness. "They're coming home, Lia," he said, covering the phone with his hand. "They can't wait to meet you and the baby."

Lia's heart swelled with emotion, and she nodded, smiling. She was ready to meet Akira's family, and she knew that they would love her and their baby just as much as she loved them.

As Akira hung up the phone, he wrapped his arms around Lia, pulling her close. "They'll be here in a few days," he said, his voice filled with excitement. "My mom is already planning a baby shower, and my sister is bringing over a ton of baby clothes."

Lia laughed, feeling a sense of joy and anticipation. She was ready to start this new chapter of her life, with Akira and their baby, surrounded by the people they loved.

The days flew by in a blur of baby shopping, decorating the nursery, and preparing for the arrival of Akira's family. Lia was feeling more and more excited, and Akira was by her side every step of the way.

Finally, the day arrived when Akira's family was due to arrive. Lia was nervous, but Akira was calm and reassuring, holding her hand and telling her that everything would be okay.

As the door opened, and Akira's family walked in, Lia's nerves disappeared. Akira's mom, dad, and sister enveloped her in hugs and kisses, welcoming her into their family with open arms.

Akira's mom, Maria, held Lia's hands, her eyes shining with tears. "We're so happy to finally meet you, Lia," she said, her voice trembling with emotion. "And we're so excited to meet our new grandbaby."

Lia smiled, feeling a sense of belonging and love that she had never felt before. She knew that she and Akira were starting a new chapter in their lives, surrounded by people who loved and supported them.The next few days were a whirlwind of activity as Akira's family showered Lia with love and attention. Maria, Akira's mom, was a force to be reckoned with, taking charge of the household and making sure Lia was comfortable and happy.

Akira's dad, John, was a quiet, gentle man who listened to Lia's stories and offered words of wisdom. He was a retired doctor, and Lia appreciated his medical expertise as he offered advice on everything from baby sleep schedules to healthy eating.

Akira's sister, Sophia, was a bundle of energy, bouncing from one task to another as she helped prepare the nursery and baby-proof the house. She was a graphic designer, and she showed Lia her designs for the baby's nursery, which Lia loved.

As the days passed, Lia felt more and more at home, surrounded by Akira's loving family. They welcomed her with open arms, and she felt like she had finally found her place.

But amidst all the excitement, Lia couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off. Ama was still out there, and Lia knew she wouldn't stop until she got what she wanted.

Akira noticed Lia's unease and took her aside one evening. "Hey, what's wrong?" he asked, his eyes searching hers.

Lia sighed, feeling a sense of unease. "I just can't help but think about Ama," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I know she's still out there, waiting for us."

Akira's face hardened, his jaw clenched. "Don't worry, Lia. We'll keep you safe. My family is here now, and we'll make sure nothing happens to you or the baby."

Lia nodded, feeling a sense of reassurance. She knew Akira would do everything in his power to protect her, and with his family by their side, she felt a sense of hope.

Just then, Maria walked into the room, a warm smile on her face. "Dinner's ready, kids," she said, her eyes sparkling with love. "Let's eat and celebrate the arrival of our new baby."

Akira smiled, pulling Lia into a hug. "Sounds like a plan, Mom," he said, his eyes shining with happiness.

As they sat down to dinner, Lia felt a sense of peace wash over her. She was surrounded by people who loved her, and she knew that together, they could face anything that came their way.The dinner was a lively affair, with Maria's cooking and Sophia's laughter filling the room. Lia felt like she was part of the family, and she couldn't help but smile as Akira's family teased him about being a soon-to-be dad.

As they finished dessert, John's phone rang, and he excused himself to answer it. He stepped out into the hallway, his expression serious as he spoke to the caller.

Akira noticed his dad's tone and excused himself, following him into the hallway. Lia watched as they spoke in hushed tones, their faces serious.

Sophia noticed Lia's concern and leaned in. "Don't worry, it's probably just something about Ama," she whispered. "Dad's been working with the authorities to track her down."

Lia nodded, trying to reassure herself. She knew Akira and his family were doing everything they could to keep her safe.

Just then, Akira and John came back into the room, their faces somber. "What's wrong?" Maria asked, her voice lipped with concern.

"Ama's been spotted in the city," John said, his eyes locked onto Lia. "She's trying to get to you, Lia. We need to take precautions."

The room fell silent, the only sound the quiet hum of the air conditioner. Lia felt a shiver run down her spine as Akira's family surrounded her, their faces determined.

"We'll keep you safe, Lia," Akira said, his voice firm. "We'll do whatever it takes."

The room erupted into a flurry of activity as Akira's family sprang into action, making phone calls and setting up security measures. Lia felt a sense of gratitude towards them, knowing they were going to great lengths to protect her and the baby.

As the night wore on, Lia felt a sense of exhaustion wash over her. Akira noticed and scooped her up, carrying her to their room. "Get some rest, baby," he whispered, his eyes shining with love. "I'll be right here, keeping you safe."

Lia smiled, feeling a sense of peace wash over her. She knew she was in good hands, surrounded by people who loved her and would do anything to protect her. As she drifted off to sleep, she felt a sense of hope - they would get through this, together.Akira settled Lia into bed, making sure she was comfortable before sitting down beside her. He stroked her hair, his eyes locked onto hers, filled with love and concern.

"I'll be right here, Lia," he whispered, his voice low and soothing. "I'll keep you and the baby safe, no matter what."

Lia smiled, feeling a sense of trust and security wash over her. She knew Akira would do everything in his power to protect her, and with his family by their side, she felt a sense of hope.

As she drifted off to sleep, Akira's phone buzzed, and he checked the message, his face hardening as he read the text.

It was from an unknown number: "I know where you are. I'll get to her soon."

Akira's eyes narrowed, his grip on the phone tightening. Ama was getting closer, and he knew he had to act fast.

He slipped out of the room, careful not to disturb Lia, and made his way to the living room where his family was gathered.

"We need to talk," he said, his voice low and urgent. "Ama's getting closer. We need to take extra precautions to keep Lia safe."

The room fell silent, the only sound the quiet hum of the air conditioner. Akira's family exchanged worried glances, but they knew they had to act fast.

"We'll increase security, set up surveillance, and make sure Lia is never alone," John said, his voice firm. "We'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe."

Akira nodded, his eyes locked onto his family's. "Let's do it," he said, his voice determined. "Let's keep Lia and the baby safe, no matter what it takes."

The room erupted into a flurry of activity as Akira's family sprang into action, working together to protect Lia and the baby from Ama's claws.

As the night wore on, Akira couldn't shake off the feeling that Ama was watching, waiting for her moment to strike. He knew he had to be vigilant, to protect the people he loved.

But for now, he had to trust his family, trust the security measures they had put in place, and trust that Lia was safe, at least for the night.

With a deep breath, Akira made his way back to Lia's side, his eyes locked onto hers as she slept, his heart filled with love and determination. He would do whatever it took to keep her safe, no matter what.Akira slipped back into the room, his eyes locking onto Lia's peaceful face as she slept. He smiled, his heart filled with love and excitement. He had a secret, one he couldn't wait to share with her.

As he sat down beside her, he pulled out his phone and began to make plans. He would marry Lia, make her his wife, and give their baby a name. He couldn't think of a better way to start their new life together.

Akira's mind whirred as he began to plan the perfect marriage ceremony. He would rent a beautiful venue, hire a top wedding planner, and invite all of their friends and family. He would make sure everything was perfect, from the flowers to the music.

But there was one problem - Lia still didn't know about his secret life in the city. She knew him as Akira, the man who had saved her life, but she didn't know about his wealth, his influence, or his family's connections.

Akira knew he had to tell her, but he was afraid. What if she was overwhelmed? What if she didn't understand?

He looked down at Lia, her face serene in sleep, and knew he had to take the risk. He would tell her soon, he promised himself. Just not yet. Not until after the wedding.

Akira smiled to himself, feeling a sense of excitement and nervousness. He couldn't wait to make Lia his wife.

The next morning, Akira woke Lia with a gentle kiss, his eyes shining with excitement. "Good morning, beautiful," he said, his voice low and husky. "I have a surprise for you."

Lia smiled, her eyes fluttering open. "What is it?" she asked, her voice sleepy.

Akira grinned, pulling out a small box from his pocket. "I want to take you shopping today," he said, his eyes sparkling. "We need to get you a wedding dress."

Lia's eyes widened, her face pale. "Wedding dress?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper.

Akira nodded, his heart racing with excitement. "Yes, Lia. I want to marry you. Will you be my wife?"

Lia's face lit up with joy, and she nodded, tears streaming down her face. "Yes, Akira. I'll marry you."

Akira whooped with joy, pulling Lia into a tight hug. He couldn't wait to start their new life together.Lia's eyes sparkled with excitement as Akira pulled her into a tight hug, swinging her around the room in a joyful dance. The sunlight streaming through the window highlighted the happiness on their faces, and the sound of their laughter filled the air.

As he set her down, Akira's phone buzzed, and he glanced at the screen, his expression turning serious for a moment. He quickly typed out a response, his fingers flying across the keyboard.

Lia noticed the change in his demeanor and frowned, her brow furrowed with concern. "What's wrong?" she asked, her voice lipped with worry.

Akira's face cleared, and he smiled, tucking his phone away. "Nothing, baby," he said, his eyes cr crling at the corners. "Just work stuff. Don't worry about it."

Lia's eyes narrowed, but she let it go, her excitement about the wedding taking center stage. "So, where are we going to get my wedding dress?" she asked, her voice filled with anticipation.

Akira grinned, taking her hand and leading her out of the room. "I have a few places in mind," he said, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "But first, we need to make a stop."

He led her to a sleek, black car parked outside the house, and Lia's eyes widened as she took in the luxury vehicle. "Akira, what are you doing?" she asked, her voice lipped with surprise.

Akira chuckled, opening the door for her. "Just get in, baby," he said, his eyes tw twkling with amusement.

Lia slid into the car, her senses overwhelmed by the soft leather and the scent of expensive perfume. She felt like a princess, and Akira was treating her like royalty.

As they drove through the city, Lia's excitement grew. She had never felt so happy, so carefree. She knew that Ama was still out there, but with Akira by her side, she felt like she could face anything.

The car pulled up in front of a beautiful, boutique hotel, and Akira led her inside. Lia's eyes widened as she took in the stunning interior, the elegant decorations, and the beautiful flowers.

Akira smiled, leading her to a private room. "Welcome to your wedding planning meeting, my love," he said, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

Lia's eyes widened as she took in the spread before her - wedding planners, designers, and caterers all waiting to help plan their special day.

She turned to Akira, her eyes shining with tears. "Akira, this is amazing," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion.

Akira smiled, pulling her into a tight hug. "I want everything to be perfect, baby," he said, his voice filled with love. "You deserve it."

As they sat down to begin planning, Lia's heart overflowed with love for Akira. She had never felt so happy, so complete.

But amidst the excitement, a nagging thought lingered in the back of her mind - what was Akira hiding from her? And what would happen when she found out?

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