Daniel, still clad in the unassuming security uniform, stood tall and unwavering, his presence commanding the space. “I’ve been watching you, Michael. Watching and waiting, hoping you’d prove me wrong.”

Anna’s eyes flickered with surprise and relief. Her father had always been her pillar, and seeing him here, in her moment of distress, filled her with a surge of strength.

Michael’s bravado crumbled as he glanced around, aware of the eyes on him. “This isn’t what it looks like,” he stammered, attempting to regain his composure.