chapter715

Sienna found herself pulled into Daniel’s home, the sharp click of the door locking behind them sending a surge of panic through her chest.

Uncertain of how to handle his rare display of anger, she struggled against his grip, but her strength was no match for his. Daniel didn't raise his voice; instead, he led her into the living room and saw her to the couch. Rather than erupting, he settled beside her, bowing his head and cradling his forehead in his hands.

A heavy silence filled the bright room, broken only by the soft, rhythmic sound of their breathing. Outside, darkness had fully cloaked the world, mirroring the somber atmosphere within. Sienna realized then that Daniel wasn't directing his frustration at her—he was mourning.

"Daniel, didn't we agree not to get involved with each other anymore?" Sienna’s voice, though timid, carried a quiet resolution that pierced the stillness.

Daniel let out a long, ragged sigh. When he finally looked up, his eyes were clouded with melancholy. "Sienna, I promised to give you space, but I never said I gave up. I’ve been trying every day to find a way back—to win your heart and earn your family’s approval."

Sienna’s head hung low. "That’s no longer necessary," she whispered, her voice thick with sorrow.

"Why?" Daniel’s tone turned sharp and serious. "There have been no lies, no arguments, and no one else between us. Is this truly about your mother’s wishes?"

Sienna remained silent, her fingers twisting together until her nails bit into her skin.

"Answer me, Sienna." Daniel reached out to hold her hand, but he stopped just inches away, the realization that he no longer had the right to touch her hitting him like a physical blow.

Their breakup felt like a dull blade—it didn't deliver a quick, fatal strike, but instead scraped at his heart day after day. "I know your mother likes me as a person," Daniel pressed, seeking any form of clarity. "Is it my career she fears? Is it the danger?"

Sienna didn't look up, her discomfort radiating off her in waves.

"I could change jobs..." Daniel murmured. "I could step back."

At those words, Sienna’s composure broke. She lifted her head, her tear-filled eyes meeting his. "Don't," she pleaded urgently, terrified that he would throw away his calling for her. "Don't quit. It isn't because of my mother, and it isn't because of your career. I... I just don't have feelings for you. Please, just stay where you belong."

Daniel froze. Her words were cold, yet her eyes were fervent, filled with a desperate kind of care that contradicted her speech. He knew he wouldn't truly abandon his calling, but he had been willing to move into a high-level administrative position—a role he had already earned through his years of service—if it meant a future with her.

"Tell me the truth, Sienna," Daniel said sternly, his voice echoing with the authority of a man who had faced death and survived.

Sienna looked away, tears streaming down her cheeks. "I am telling the truth."

She couldn't bear the thought of him sacrificing his passion for her. Daniel had endured the unthinkable in the line of duty; he had faced torture and stared down death, only to return to the front lines the moment he was able. To him, wealth was secondary to his dedication to justice. He was a man who would give his life for his duty, and Sienna refused to be the reason that flame went out.