Night had settled in.
That was when the Isle of Veil truly woke up. Neon lights flashed from every corner, traffic buzzed nonstop, and the city pulsed with energy. The more peaceful a place seemed, the easier it was for danger to hide in plain sight.
To keep a low profile, Anthony had Charlotte change into a new outfit and slip on a hat. But with their tall frames and striking looks, they drew attention wherever they went. People couldn't help but stare.
Anthony kept his arm wrapped around Charlotte’s waist, staying alert and making sure nobody got too close. Hans and the other two trailed behind, keeping a watchful eye from the shadows.
With Anthony by her side, Charlotte didn’t have a care in the world. Instead, she was glued to her phone, messaging Nora.
Her dad was part of The Hawk Family and had grown up right here on the Isle of Veil. He must've walked these streets a thousand times. She couldn't help feeling curious about the family she hardly knew.
After a few minutes, Charlotte lifted her chin and shot Anthony a look that couldn’t be clearer.
He just smiled at her, pretending not to notice.
Charlotte was about to say something when Nora’s reply popped up. She pressed her lips together and focused on her phone, tapping out a quick response.
When she looked up again, she spotted a little kid not far away, dressed head to toe in pink and happily licking an ice cream cone, their cheeks smeared with cream.
Charlotte gazed up at Anthony again, her silent request practically shouting now.
Anthony kept his grin, still playing dumb. As long as he didn’t say anything, he could pretend he had no clue she wanted ice cream.
Charlotte frowned and came to a stop, staring at Anthony with the saddest puppy eyes. Then, after a second or two, she just squatted down on the sidewalk.
Head lowered, chin resting in her hands, she stared longingly at the kid enjoying their ice cream.

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