Cedric’s rage flared in the dim study. Noelle’s ordeal had ignited a firestorm. He wouldn’t tolerate anyone harming her.

Peter, finally understanding his mistake, stammered, "I'm so sorry! I didn't mean it—I swear!"

Cedric’s contemptuous smile was chilling. "Apologies don't cut it. Why else would we need the police?"

"I'll apologize to her," Peter offered.

"Don't even think about it," Cedric spat. "Turn yourself in."

Cedric left, the weight of his fury palpable. After washing the blood from his hands, he paused at Noelle's bedroom door. His anger was still raw. He stood watching her sleep, the storm slowly receding, before leaving quietly.

The next morning, Noelle woke refreshed. She found a blanket on the couch, Cedric gone.

He emerged from the study, his expression unreadable. "Good morning," he said.

"Morning," Noelle replied, clearing her throat. "You didn't sleep well?" The couch was clearly too short for him.

Cedric, now in crisp white, shrugged. "Napped. That man was arrested last night."

Noelle’s eyes widened. "That fast? I thought that area was a surveillance blind spot." She suspected Cedric's involvement.

He met her gaze. "He ran out of luck. Left traces."

Noelle breathed a sigh of relief. "Good. I wasn't the only victim."

Her phone rang. "Ms. Liddell, today's the national finals. Firestorm is livestreaming, special guest event. Will you join us?"

"The venue?" Noelle asked.

"Yes, e-ticket sent."

"Firestorm sent me a ticket," Noelle told Cedric. "They want me to watch."

"Going?" he asked.

"Of course!" she smiled.

Cedric was relieved to see her smile.

Over lunch, Noelle noticed Cedric constantly texting. "That lady again?" she asked.

Cedric looked up. "Why the interest in my love life?"

Noelle mumbled, "Nothing. Just curious. Is she local? How did you meet?"

Cedric's gaze was steady and calm.