Alice

"I'm ready to go. Are you finished?" Donovan inquired, gazing at Rihana. This place started to suffocate him. He felt it was too packed. Most likely, he had indulged himself in drinking a bit too much at the club, and now everything began to irritate him.

"Absolutely, let's leave. It's far too packed here," Rihana replied, rising and grasping Donovan's hand.

She surveyed the surroundings with contempt, clearly unimpressed by the lively, casual vibe of the place. Rihana favoured more elegant locations that were equivalent to her status. This diner wasn't to her liking, crowded with ordinary shoppers and the buzz of a weekend crowd. She had only agreed to visit because of Donovan.

Kai, Logan, and Harper and Elena decided to linger longer. Not that women wanted to stay, but if they left, probably some bitches whom they see as low life might like to try on both Kai and Logan.

Outside Venture and Vittles, Liora waited for the perfect moment in a narrow lane. The two men in casuals began walking towards her with predatory grins, their eyes recking her from head to toe with lust.

"Are you mute?" the man with a snake tattoo on his neck sneered, his voice dripping with mockery.

His gaze travelled slowly from her face down to her chest, lingering there for an uncomfortable beat. Liora clenched her jaw, the feeling of his eyes crawling over her skin like an unwelcome touch.

The second man, stockier with a jagged scar across his cheek, chuckled darkly. "Don't worry, sweetheart. We'll loosen you up soon enough."

She forced herself to remain still, her hand tightening around the pepper spray hidden behind her back. She had to play this smart, to wait for them to get close enough so there would be no room for them to dodge.

"Not much of a talker, huh?" Tattoo Neck taunted as he took another step closer.

Her silence seemed to agitate them, the lack of reaction challenging their fragile egos.

"Think you're too good to speak to us?" Scarface spat, his voice sharp with irritation. "We'll —"

Liora didn't let him finish. She raised the pepper spray and aimed it directly at both the men's faces, pressing the nozzle hard.

A hiss of aerosol and a sharp scream followed as the men staggered back, clutching their eyes. Their eyes burned, as well as their nostrils and their tongues.

"What the hell?" Scarface shouted.

"I'm not as quiet as you think," Liora muttered, her voice low and steady.

The burning sensation intensified in their eyes, causing excessive tearing. The pepper liquid penetrated their nostrils, leading to coughing and breathing difficulties. Furthermore, they felt irritation in their throats. Additionally, their faces felt a burning sensation, and there was visible redness on their skin.

Liora hurried over to Alice, grabbed her hand, and they dashed down the main street. Liora looked back at the struggling figures of the men. A sense of guilt pulled at her as she witnessed their pain, but there was also an unusual sense of contentment in knowing she had safeguarded the vulnerable girl.

She spotted a small indoor café nearby. She ushered the girl inside and straight to the washroom.

Liora stood outside the restroom. She kept the door slightly open, prepared to help if necessary. She felt thankful for how events unfolded; while she didn't wish to provoke her PTSD, it ultimately brought her to Alice, and she was grateful to have met her during her difficult time.

As the blind girl came out of the restroom, Liora carefully guided her out.

However, the employee's voice stopped them just before they reached the exit. "Miss, you need to purchase coffee to use the restroom."

Liora turned back, facing the employee with the blind girl by her side. They were close to the exit, almost free, but now three patrons sitting nearby, enjoying their coffee with sandwiches and pastries, turned their heads to watch the scene.

"Ah..Sorry, I did not know." Liora quickly ordered a bottle of water for Alice and coffee for herself.

While Liora and Alice sat on the corner table, one was sipping water, and the other was sipping coffee, the woman working at the cafe brought them the first aid box.

"She requires first aid. Be sure to clean the injury and properly seal the wound. People react differently in Valtham when they see blood."

Liora nodded in appreciation and gratefully took the first aid kit. It made her wonder if the people of Valtham are sensitive to seeing blood. "Thank you," she replied quietly.

The girl flinched as Liora carefully treated her injuries, yet she smiled in gratitude.

"What's your home like?" Liora started a conversation to avert Alice's attention from the pain.

"I reside in an orphanage designed for blind children," Alice replied earnestly, maintaining a smile on her face.

However, inside, she longed for a family. She desired someone to call Mama and Papa. Her parents abandoned her in an orphanage shortly after her birth because they could not accept her being born blind. Regardless, she beamed brighter, accepting her circumstances.

Liora took note of Alice. The girl had a slight smile, her tiny hand still gripping Liora's for comfort. The way she held on reminded Liora of Donovan, how she clung to him when he came to her rescue. For that brief moment, she recalled him when she saw him at the racetrack.

'Will he recognise me if we ever encounter each other?' A tightness gripped her chest, and she shook the thought away immediately.

"You holding up okay, Alice?" Liora asked, her tone intentionally light as if trying to carry them both through the weight of the moment. Liora was fully aware that Alice was trying to maintain a brave front beneath that smile while likely feeling terrified inside.

Alice nodded, her voice steady but her body betraying signs of exhaustion. "Yeah, don't worry about me. I'm a strong girl."

"That you are!" Liora agreed.

"Shall we head to the police station, Alice?" Liora suggested, eager to file a complaint.

Without her phone, she thought it was better to go directly to the police and let them contact the orphanage. She felt reassured that Alice would be safe at the station. Convincing herself of the plan, they walked out of the café together.

They asked, stopping along the way to ask passersby for directions.

"We're almost there," she said, squeezing Alice's hand gently. "Just a little further, and we will soon be there."

They came across the police station that boasted a modern design and mirrored glass doors reflecting the sunlight.

Liora and Alice cautiously entered the building. She scanned the area, attempting to get acquainted with her surroundings. The officers were busy and attentive, answering phone calls and recording reports. Some were carrying boxes with files, and some were talking to the civilians.

The reception zone was crowded, and several individuals lined up to submit reports. On their left, the notice boards had different announcements and posters, some of which provided information about missing individuals.

Among the crowd, Liora's gaze landed on Daran, the guy with the red hair who was at the reception desk.

Spotting a familiar face brought a smile to Liora's lips. She immediately shouted, "Daran!"

Recognising her voice, Daran turned and saw Liora standing short distance away.

"Liora, where have you been?" Daran wished he could pull her closer, but he couldn't. A frown creased his forehead as he said, "Do you realise how worried I was? I was nearly about to check myself into a mental institution."

Liora felt relieved to see Daran in front of her. Even though she had been trying to act tough like Alice, she was also experiencing feelings of anxiety and being overwhelmed inside. Encountering strangers and visiting the police station wasn't a usual activity for her. Now, she feels more at ease with Daran around.

"I am sorry; I didn't mean to cause any trouble. I misplaced my phone, which is why I couldn't reach you." Liora then indicated towards Alice, who was holding her hand tightly. "I'm with Alice."

Liora encountered everything that happened. "That is why we were here in the police station."

"Alice, I am Daran. Liora's best friend." He introduced himself.

Liora and Daran approached the front desk. The officer on duty, a stern-looking woman, glanced up from her computer.

"How can I help you?" She asked, her voice speaking of professionalism.

Liora stepped forward, "We came here to report an incident," she began. "This is Alice, and she comes from an orphanage. She was chased by several men, and her friends could also be at risk."

Liora gazed at Alice, who appeared anxious. She then turned to the police officer, saying, "We need help, officer."

The woman at the front desk asked them to wait while the detective saw them.

In the bustling reception area, a detective came over to them, identifying himself as Detective Carlos Lopetze. He was of shorter stature and he appeared to be a calm individual.

"Follow me," he instructed, guiding them to a more secluded area. The space was modest yet coy, featuring a table, some chairs, and a few inspiring posters adorning the walls.

Alice recounted the events, elaborating on all that had taken place. Detective Carlos paid close attention, jotting down notes and seeking clarification when necessary. His attention remained wholly on Alice.

"I require additional details about the location. What is the name of the orphanage, Alice?" inquired Detective Carlos.

"Beautiful Vision Orphanage," came the quick response from Alice.

Detective Carlos was prepared to note down the name as soon as he heard it, but he paused for a moment before writing it down.

"Please make yourself comfortable here. I will return shortly after placing a call to the orphanage."

Rachel quickly reached the station after receiving a message from Daran.

She reached the room where Daran, Liora, and Alice were.

She continued without hesitation and positioned herself beside Liora, addressing her in a concerned voice."Liora, next time, give me a heads up before you plan to run away." her tone was far from gentle.

Liora cleared her throat, "I'll remember that, Rachel, and I sincerely apologise." Liora then recalled the events that had occurred.

Detective Carlos returned back quickly with a good news, "Alice, the head of the orphage Ms Decosta will be soon here. They were worried about you. They too have been looking for you it seems."

The detective gave a faint smile that Alice was unable to notice. "You're in a safe place, Alice." The detective turned to the other three, "We've gathered all the information about the individuals, and if you'd like, you may leave."

Daran sensed something was off about the entire situation. Were they being asked to exit? The detective didn't even inquire about their name or contact information and was already asking them to leave. He wondered if this was the way the Valtham police operated. So indifferent?

"What about the men that my friend ran into?" Daran inquired earnestly.

Detective Carlos glanced at Daran, then at Liora, before returning his focus to Daran. "Those men didn't assault your friend. Based on your friend's account, it appears she is the one who attacked them with pepper spray. If I take down her name and file an official statement, your friend could potentially face some charges." He stated plainly.

Liora was taken aback. She acted to defend herself. Did she need to wait for something to transpire before taking action to protect herself?

Before Liora could say a word, Rachel interjected, "Thank you, officer. We will wait here until someone from the orphanage comes and picks up Alice.

After a long wait, a woman finally arrived. She looked compassionate as she entered with Detective Carlos. Dressed in casual white pants and a black shirt, she appeared to be in her mid-50s. When her eyes fell on Alice, a gentle smile spread across her face, seeing Alice safe.

"Oh, Alice! My dear! You are safe!!" She quickly grabbed Alice's hand and placed a small kiss on the back of it.

"You are not hurt, are you?" She asked in concern. Alice shook her head, allowing that woman to hold her hand.

Turning her attention to the three youngsters who stood behind Alice, she introduced herself as Ms. Decosta, the head of the Orphanage. Still holding Alice's hand, she continued, "Thank you for helping Alice! It's heartening to know that there are still kind souls willing to lend a hand to those in need. May God bless you, kids."

Ms. Decosta voice and apperance appeared nurturing and warm. Liora was comforted knowing that Alice was no longer by herself and had someone, someone who cared for her and for others.

"It's our pleasure, Ms. Decosta. What about the other kids?" Liora inquired further. "Are they alright? Alice mentioned she heard a child scream."

"Oh, that! A few children lost their footing and tumbled off, which is what Alice heard, causing her to run away in fear." Ms. Decosta clasped Alice's shoulder firmly, trying to protect her.

"Everything is fine. Nothing to worry about." She reassured them.

"Thank god!" Liora sighed in relief. Her shoulders drooped down as the tension released from them within a blink of an eye.

But what about those two men she met who were searching for the blind girl? Liora wondered to herself. She frowned, "I noticed a few men searching for the blind girl." She wasn't certain if she was making a statement or asking Ms. Decosta.

"I am not sure, dear, whom you are talking about." Ms. Decosta responded promptly. She seemed to be unaware of what Liora was speaking of. She gave another gentle smile: " If you would like to see Alice at any time, feel free to visit our orphanage." She extended her hand to offer Liora a visiting card, but Daran took it instead.

Ms. Decosta began to observe Liora with a keen and insightful look, her brows knitting together slightly as she absorbed the nuances of Liora's look, much like a diligent architect scrutinising the components of an elaborate blueprint.

"You are beautiful, Child. What is your name?"

"Her name is Li." Daran interrupted once more. Liora cast a quick look and smiled uneasily, not comprehending why Daran would misstate her name. She also chose not to dispute his claim.

Ms. Decosta guided Alice away, and Liora experienced a sense of relief. She ensured Alice's safety.

Outside the police station, the temperature was more pleasant. The intensity of the sun had diminished.

"Let's head back," Liora suggested, moving toward the vehicle.

Daran, who had been watching her closely, maintained his fixed stare, his eyes steady.

"Why do you keep looking at me that way?" Liora inquired, stealing a sideways glance between Daran and her hands. She was fully aware of the reason behind his gaze.

"Just keeping an eye on you," Daran replied sarcastically. "Apparently, I can't look away for ten minutes without you pulling some stunt that ends with me staring down the barrel of Captain Park's gun."

"I didn't ask for a babysitter." Liora mocked Daran.

Daran looked away for a second and smiled, "Yeah, well, Captain Park doesn't give me much of a choice. I'd like to avoid any 'friendly' chats with him about your safety.

While Liora was on her way, Rihana almost reached her apartment premises.

The vehicle came to a halt in front of Rihana's building, and she appeared to be deep in thought. She paused, her typical self-assurance wavering as she stayed seated. Her impeccably groomed fingers wandered over her lap, creating absent-minded designs.

"Would you like to come upstairs?" She asked gently.

Rihana, the woman who could render men speechless with just a glance, often felt herself retreating slightly in Donovan's presence.

There was a quality about him that left her feeling vulnerable and laid bare whenever they were together as if he could see through the carefully crafted facade she maintained like protection.

Donovan faced her, his expression inscrutable, yet his voice held a faint note of remorse. "Perhaps another time," he replied, briefly meeting her disappointed gaze. "I have some work." His words were resolute, yet they carried a burden of their own.

He stepped out of the car and rounded to her side, moving with his usual air of quiet authority. Opening the door with a fluid motion, he extended a hand to her.

Rihana accepted it, her touch light, almost hesitant. She slid out of the car with her signature grace, her heels clicking softly against the pavement. Standing close to him, she tilted her head slightly, her eyes searching his for something unspoken.

She placed a delicate kiss on his cheek, her lips lingering just enough to leave a faint trace of warmth. "Take care," she whispered, her voice carrying the slightest tremor. In return, Donovan gave her a faint smile.

As she disappeared into the building, Donovan returned to his seat, the door closing with a muted click that echoed in the silence. With a resigned sigh, he pulled out his phone and dialled a number that connected almost instantly.

"Set up a fight for this evening," Donovan commanded, his tone firm and determined.

After a moment of silence, a polished, respectful voice responded, "Got it, Capo dei capi. Any particular stipulations?"

Donovan's voice lowered, tinged with a dare. "The one who knocks me out will walk away rich."

The line went silent for a beat before the voice on the other end replied, "As you wish!"