Chapter 46 Watching From the Shadows

Caelan had just settled into a new spot when a woman came over to talk. He really wasn't in the mood for conversation. The woman, sensing his lack of interest, quickly moved on with her drink. From where he sat, Caelan kept an eye on Sofia. After a while, it was obvious that Sofia was feeling the effects of the drug. She leaned on the blond man, struggling to stay upright. From the start, Caelan had been aware of that man's intentions with Sofia and hoped she would learn a lesson: to be more cautious around strangers in the future. Just as that man began leading Sofia away, Caelan sprang into action and confronted him with a punch. "Did you really think I wouldn't see what you're doing? How dare you try to take her without her saying yes?" The guy was shocked by Caelan's sudden move and snapped back, "She said she'd go with me. Who are you to step in? You're just friends, right? I don't force anyone." Caelan, seeing Sofia's state, knew she couldn't make a clear decision. He glared at the guy, firmly stating, "She's not going anywhere with you." The guy, now getting aggressive, challenged him, "Oh yeah? And how will you stop me?" Caelan didn't back down. "So the nice act is over, huh?" "Just move out of my way," the guy insisted. Caelan positioned himself firmly between them. Their altercation was mostly unnoticed in the noisy bar, attracting only a few curious looks. He lunged at the guy, his punches strong and determined. As the guy was about to pass out, Alan Kerr, the bar owner, stepped in to intervene. Alerted by his security, Alan had left his office where he was watching a game to check on the situation. Knowing Caelan well, Alan quickly grasped what was happening, especially seeing Sofia's unconscious state. The guy, now intimidated and nursing his bruised face, hurried away from the scene. Alan addressed Caelan, "You should have called me sooner. I wouldn't have let you handle this by yourself." "It's fine, not a big issue." "Are you hurt?" Alan checked Caelan for any injuries. "I'm fine. But my friend isn't doing well. I need to get her home," Caelan said, concerned for Sofia. Alan nodded, understanding the situation. "If you need help, just call me. Looks like no more drinks for you tonight." "I'll swing by another time." Realizing Sofia was in no condition to return to the hotel, Caelan made a decision. Charlotte would be worried sick if she found out about tonight's ordeal; they also had to tuck the children in. With Sofia like this, going back would just cause more trouble. Reluctantly, he decided to check Sofia into a nearby hotel for the night. He sent Luke a text to let him know they wouldn't be returning. After settling Sofia onto the hotel bed, Caelan quickly showered, hoping to feel more refreshed. They had arrived late, and the only available room was a one-bedroom suite. Caelan settled himself on the couch to sleep but was quickly roused by Sofia stirring. She seemed unsteady, prompting him to rush to her side. "Are you okay?" "I feel really warm... Can I have some water?" Sofia said softly. Caelan got her a cold glass of water and helped her drink it. Sofia, still feeling the effects of the drug, didn't realize Caelan was helping her. When she felt the cold water, she moved forward and accidentally bumped into Caelan's lips. Surprised, Caelan didn't know what to do for a moment. Sofia, under the drug influence, began to undress. Caelan remembered he had been in such situations before, but this was different. Sofia was his friend Charlotte's buddy, and he didn't know how to explain this to her. As he tried to step away, Sofia reached out for support. They both ended up tumbling onto the couch, with Caelan landing on top. Sofia was now without any clothes, feeling extremely hot. "I feel so uncomfortable..." she murmured. "Please... please stop..." he pleaded softly. At that moment, Caelan's mind was completely blank, and Sofia wasn't even sure what she was doing. She just kept trying to take off Caelan's clothes. But deep down, Caelan struggled for a long time. In the end, he couldn't resist the physical reactions. At the same time, Luke had just finished bathing Andy. He checked his phone and saw Caelan's message. "Looks like they won't be back tonight. They're probably having a good time somewhere." Charlotte, holding her daughter, agreed. "Everyone needs a break now and then," she said as they got ready for bed. They didn't know that something unexpected was happening at a hotel not too far away. The next morning, Sofia woke up, feeling surprised about the night before. She sat up quietly, took a moment to think, and then started to get ready, acting as if it was just another day. Just as Sofia thought she was being really quiet, Caelan's voice surprised her. "Are we just going to act like nothing unusual happened?" Startled, Sofia hesitated. "I... I thought you were still sleeping." Caelan then gently told her what had happened, looking concerned. "You don't have to worry, I'll take responsibility for you." When Caelan woke up, he saw a bright red stain on the pristine sheets, he frowned, realizing the situation. He understood why last night felt different. Sofia seemed hesitant. "It's okay, really. Stuff happens, right? I'm not mad at you or anything. If you're good, I guess I'll head out now." Caelan quickly reached for her hand. "Wait, are you sure you're okay to go alone? Do you remember the way back?"