Chapter fifty one

Selena

The sunlight streamed through the window, casting a warm glow upon the room as Channel and I slowly awakened to the sounds of commotion echoing throughout the mansion. A knot tightened in my stomach, and a sense of unease washed over me as I listened to the hurried footsteps and muffled voices downstairs.

Channel blinked, rubbing her eyes sleepily. "Selena, what's going on? Why is there so much noise?"

I took a deep breath, my mind racing with worry. I knew that my father's line of work was entangled with the shadows, and the sudden disturbance stirred a deep sense of fear within me. I couldn't let Channel witness the dark underbelly of my family's connections to the mafia or discover the secrets I had tried so hard to shield her from.

"Channel, something's not right," I said, my voice filled with urgency. "I don't want you to come downstairs. Stay here, and I'll find out what's happening. It's best if you remain unaware of the situation."

Channel's eyes widened with concern. "