THE PRICE OF PROTECTION
Ava tensed up beside me, holding her breath. I reached out and found her hand in the darkness, holding it tightly. Even though we were on edge, I couldn't tear my eyes away from the intense scene unfolding in front of us.
Nathaniel, usually overconfident, leaned forward with his elbows on his knees. The firelight reflected off the gaudy rings on his fingers. With a casual yet challenging tone, he asked, "Are you questioning our abilities, Lysander?" We've done everything to keep her safe, haven't we?"
"Safe?" Lysander's voice was chillingly low, barely above a whisper. He carefully set his glass down, the gentle clink resonating in the sudden silence. "Is that how you describe the minor incident tonight?"
I watched as Nathaniel's confidence faltered for a momen
