Miku knew her betrayal would forever leave a mark on their relationship, but after that unusual night, her guilt significantly diminished, and her relationship with Ray became more trusting, which made the girl very happy.
Despite concerns for Yuno and Sam, who were busy with important work implementing the Devils' plans, everything was going well. Recently, Amaya had started calling Ray "Dad." Miku couldn't say she hadn't hoped for it, but even she didn't think it would happen so soon.
Now they were all watching The Lion King together. The pleasant atmosphere in the living room was interrupted by a phone call. Miku was sure the news wouldn't be good. While Ray answered the call, all she could do was pray that Yuno and Sam were okay.
Ending the call, Ray said:
"There was an assassination attempt on Tyler. I need to go to the hospital. I think it's related to one of the cases he's handling."
It took Ray some time to get ready. Miku asked anxiously:
"Should I come with you?"
"No, stay with the girls, I'll be quick," with those words, Ray kissed her tenderly and hurried to the hospital.
Rolling into the room, he saw Tyler, who smirked and said:
"Good to see you, even though we're meeting under these circumstances."
"How serious is it?" Ray asked.
"Three gunshots. Either the guy sent to kill me was an amateur, or I'm a very lucky bastard."
"Do you know who it was?"
"Yes, one of the largest arms trafficking groups. I dug up very serious evidence. They tried to bribe me; realizing I don't like sweets, they turned to the whip. Glad you came. I want to ask you to take my wife in until I'm done with them."
"Bro, you know I don't mind helping, but right now I'm a pretty questionable protector."
"First, don't be modest. I know you always carry a weapon and shoot well. Second, I can't trust anyone."
"What about your colleagues? Can't they arrange protection for your wife?"
"They can, but I'm not sure they'd refuse a bribe."
"Okay, you can count on me. How long will it take?"
"I'll try to be quick, but I think three to six months. Do I need to pick her up? If so, where is she now?"
"She's with my parents. It would be ideal if you could pick her up."
Several days had passed since Cassie arrived at their house. Even though she was Tyler's wife, she wasn't particularly close to Ray or his family, so the girl had doubts she'd fit in. But thanks to her husband's persuasion, she decided to come.
She was received very warmly. Over these couple of days, she especially bonded with Deya — the girl greatly respected the little one for freely going out despite her scar.
Now they were walking together, and Deya asked:
"How did you know you were in love?"
"You know that Tyler and I met in a mental hospital, right?"
"Yes."
"He ended up there after what happened to Lily and your brother. When I was a little younger than you, I was raped by my grandfather. When I got older, I killed him and ended up in the hospital. All attempts at relationships failed. But with Tyler, it was different — we needed each other. I know his parents were against our relationship, but his willingness to go against them won me over. Anyone can talk prettily, but not everyone can act. If you want my advice, look for a man who doesn't just say 'I love you' but proves it. If a crazy woman like me could find a guy, you'll definitely be fine."
"Thank you. But Tyler's job is very dangerous. Aren't you scared?"
"The truth is, I was very scared. There were times when I asked him to quit, but then I realized it was useless and made every effort to become a reliable support for him. Lily's death left a mark not only on your brother's soul but also on Tyler's. I know the whole story and am willing to give a lot to find those who did it. But honestly, I can't shake the thought that it was that poor girl's death that allowed me to meet Tyler. These thoughts are the main reason I no longer try to stop him."
"I understand your feelings. Honestly, we're a bit alike. My mother found out she had cancer and decided to give birth to me so my brother would have a reason to live. I'm something like an anchor. But my brother really takes care of me, and I accept it, trying to bring joy to his soul. If you came into Tyler's life after that tragedy, it's not your fault. You came to help."
"You're really a good kid. If I have a daughter, I'd want her to be like you."
Time passed. Living in Ray's house, Cassie felt an atmosphere of family warmth she had never experienced before. Watching this scene, she decided that once everything was over, she would accept Tyler's offer to find a surrogate mother.
During this time, several attempts were made on her life, but the bodyguards who constantly accompanied Ray's girls knew their job well, and everything went smoothly.
One day, Cassie saw Miku training and decided to join in, so Yuno now had two protégés.
During this time, Yuno had made several trips to the Devils' base to help with operations, though her main task remained protecting Deya.
Now was one such trip. The operation went well, but not without injuries. Entering the room, Yuno saw a sturdy young man of about sixteen. The boy was clearly glad to see her.
"Big sister Yuno, thank you for pulling me and my group out of that mess."
"No need for thanks — one of our rules is one for all and all for one. But you must be very careful in the future. Airi will be very upset if something happens to you," Yuno said with a smile.
Hearing this, the boy bit his lip and said:
"She's a good girl, I know she loves me, but we both know who I love."
Hearing these words, Yuno took the boy's hand and said:
"Believe me, I understand what you feel. I went through it myself, and it hurts me to say this, but I can't return your feelings."
There was a time when Yuno spent several months at the base. During that time, she took care of Jesse and several other kids. He became a younger brother to her, and she became something more to him. Yuno understood what he felt, and it was hard for her. She knew that in the future, this handsome guy would be a heartbreaker, but her heart had long been taken.
Seeing he still hadn't given up thoughts of her, she decided to put an end to it.
"Airi is a good girl. You're like a younger brother to me. If I find out you hurt her, you'll face a very painful castration."
With those words, she stroked the boy's head.
"I knew I had no chance. Sorry for putting you in an awkward position."
"No need to apologize. I know what you're feeling, and I'm sorry."