This unanticipated action ruffled the feathers of Casiano, who had just managed to simmer down his ire, causing him to lose his composure in an abrupt manner.
He swiftly seized Alla's arm, pulling her back into the vehicle, his eyes, deep and dark as a crimson evening, fixated on her with a relentless intensity.
"Alla," he articulated sternly, "I've cautioned you before, Washington is fraught with danger. Have you disregarded my warning as mere idle chatter?"
"I…"
Before Alla could formulate a response, Casiano preempted her with his own query, "I comprehend your aversion to my villa, but have you contemplated who you know here in Washington, and where you might go?"
His voice, tinged with irritation, also bore undertones of desperation. "Why won't you accept my assistance even in such challenging circumstances? Do you loathe me to such an extent?"
