The other guards became alert, their hands near their belts, ready for a fight. An uncomfortable silence fell over the scene. The man Nico had hit straightened up, checking his jaw for pain. His face turned angry, his eyes flashing with rage. He looked like he might attack. Celia's heart beat loudly in her ears. The night air felt heavy, making her wait nervously for what would happen next.
Then, headlights washed over them.
A sleek black car rolled up to the gate. The driver’s window lowered.
It was Rafael.
His gaze moved between Celia, Nico, and the furious security guard. His face was unreadable, but the air around him felt heavier, sharper. He exhaled slowly, his voice calm but cold.
"What the hell is going on?"
The security guard opened his mouth to speak, but Rafael l
