What now?

Alex's pulse thundered in their ears as they gripped Sarah's hand tightly, their footsteps echoing through the grand hallways. The commotion below grew louder, the distinct sound of glass shattering and guttural shouts filling the air. Whoever was downstairs wasn't just breaking in—they were sending a message.

Max, always moving with calculated precision, signaled for them to keep low as they approached the staircase. He peered down, his sharp eyes scanning the chaos unfolding below. Alex caught a glimpse of intruders dressed in black, their faces masked and their movements deliberate.

"Stay here," Max ordered, his voice firm as he pulled out a concealed weapon from his jacket. "I'll handle this."

"No!" Alex hissed, shaking their head. "We're in this together. You can't just go down there alone."

Max's jaw tightened, his gaze darting between Alex and the intruders below. "I don't have time to argue. Stay hidden. Protect Sarah."