For a moment, the world narrows to that single figure on the upper floor of the parking structure. A silhouette cut out of dim light, standing completely still, watching us with quiet intent.
My lungs seize. Instinct moves faster than thought. I reach out and grab Damian’s arm hard enough to surprise myself.
“There,” I breathe. “Look.”
Damian turns sharply, following my shaking hand. His eyes lock on the figure. In an instant, everything about him changes. His body shifts into protection and command all at once. His arm comes up slightly in front of me, not touching, but creating a barrier the way a wall rises to block a storm.
Then he signals his security team with swift, clipped orders.
“Upper level. Flank both sides. No one exits.”
The guards move with practiced speed, splitting i
