Gracia flinched, moving behind Evelyn instinctively. Her lips parted to protest, but the fear that Sophia's mere presence evoked was overwhelming. Memories flooded back—electric shocks that sent pain coursing through her body, the cruel men who had dragged her into darkness, and the treatment of the asylum. Everything made her whimper like a scared puppy despite her desire to stand tall.
"He!" Evelyn's voice interrupted, steady as a mountain. Despite her calm demeanor, her heart pounded like a drum in her chest. When Sophia's gaze landed on her, Evelyn continued smoothly, "He is a new client."
Sophia's sharp eyes narrowed in suspicion. Her calculating gaze swept over the person Evelyn was shielding, but Lucius and Rita moved subtly, standing closer to Evelyn and forming a protective wall. Gracia was hidden entirely from view.
The bouncers stepped forward at Evelyn's silent signal, their imposing presence forcing Sophia to flinch and step back instinctively.
