Zack guided Nia into his penthouse, his arm resting lightly on her back as he carried Pixel's carrier in his other hand. The two guards stationed near the entrance stood at attention but said nothing, their presence as unyielding as granite. Nia glanced at them, a faint crease forming on her brow, but Zack's calm demeanour kept her from voicing her unease. Zack gave a courteous nod to both guards. He knew it was his father who had sent them. He was thankful for his vigilance.
As the elevator doors closed behind them and they stepped into Zack's home, Nia felt a strange mix of emotions. The penthouse was magnificent, bathed in soft, ambient lighting that highlighted the tasteful modern decor. It was clean, sharp, and elegant—a space that seemed to reflect Zack himself but not fully. Yet there was an unexpected warmth to it, the kind of warmth that made her feel… safe and home.
