As Cain strode out of the warehouse, Marlo remained behind, his shoulders sagging under the weight of Cain's threats. Samuel watched, his heart pounding, as Marlo seemed to gather himself before slowly making his way toward the exit.
The moment Marlo stepped outside, Samuel slipped out of the shadows. "Marlo," he called, his voice firm yet quiet.
Marlo froze, whipping around with wide eyes. "You—you are S-Samuel? What are you doing here?"
"Saving you from making a mistake you'll regret," Samuel replied, stepping closer. "Whatever Cain has over you, tell me, and I can help you."
Marlo swallowed hard, glancing nervously around as if expecting Cain to appear out of thin air. "It's… it's complicated. Cain has… he has things on me, things that could ruin me. I didn't have a choice."
Samuel's gaze softened, his resolve only strengthening. "You always have a choice. I'll help you, Marlo. But you have to trust me."
