Damien rose instantly, positioning himself firmly behind Maya, a silent shield. Harper and Ashcroft moved to flank them, muscles tense, ready for any sign of trouble.
James and Lee, nearby, sensed the shift in energy and quickly closed the distance, forming a tight barrier around Maya.
The air thickened—this wasn’t just a confrontation; it was a warning.
Ethan faltered, words failing him. “Maya… I… I just—”
She held up a hand, cutting him off.
“Just what?!” Her voice was low, but edged with fury. “You know what—save it. I’ve tried being civil since day one, but you keep pushing. Crossing every damn line. You’ve put me in uncomfortable positions since the moment you arrived, and not once did I stoop to being rude to you. But now? You insult the people I care about. You don’t get to do
