Phantom in the Night

"Claudia's been hurt?" The blood drained from Blair's face, leaving her feeling cold and hollow. Claudia's laughter, her bright, carefree spirit, seemed a lifetime ago, replaced by a chilling wave of fear that washed over her, icy and relentless.

Victor's brow furrowed, a shadow of worry darkening his handsome features. "What happened?" he demanded, his voice sharp, clipped. He turned towards the bouncer, his gaze intense, demanding details.

The bouncer, a burly giant with a face that had seen its fair share of bar fights and late-night brawls, stammered, his words tumbling over each other in a rush of panicked explanations. "A group of guys… drunk… harassing her. She's okay, I think, but… they were rough. Real rough."

"I'll handle it," Victor said, his jaw tightening, his voice leaving no room for argument. He was already moving towards the door, his movements swift and purposeful, a predator sensing the vulnerability of its prey.