Carmen had been starving, and the moment Felicia sat down, she eagerly pushed the menu toward her. “I’ve already ordered my favorites, but it’s your turn now. Go wild!”

Their close bond allowed Felicia to order without hesitation. She quickly scanned the menu and placed her order.

The waiter collected the menus and poured their drinks. Soon, the fragrant stew arrived. Felicia ate, her eyes flickering toward the window several times. Carmen, engrossed in her meal, remained oblivious.

“This is amazing!” Carmen exclaimed between bites, her mouth slightly red from the spice. She cooled her tongue, drank some water, and then noticed Felicia closing the window.

“Why close it? Isn’t it hot in here?”

“To keep bugs out,” Felicia replied casually.

Carmen accepted her explanation without question. They devoured the stew, nearly licking the pot clean. After Carmen paid, they were about to leave when Felicia stopped her, handing Carmen two small spheres.

“These are for emergencies,” Felicia said seriously. “If you’re ever in danger, use them. But be careful—they’re filled with poison. Only use them as a last resort.”

Carmen’s eyes widened. “You’re amazing, Felicia! You even know how to make these!”

Felicia smiled faintly.

As they left the restaurant, Felicia mentioned an errand and suggested Carmen go home first. Carmen readily agreed, but hesitated at the cab door. Turning back, she squinted suspiciously. “Wait a second. You gave me poison and now you’re sending me away alone. Are you trying to get rid of me?”

Felicia laughed, amused and exasperated. “What are you talking about? I have a late appointment at the clinic. Want to come along and see some patients?”

Carmen’s face paled. She vehemently shook her head. “No thanks! I get queasy just thinking about needles! See you tomorrow!”

“Tomorrow it is. Stay safe.”

After Carmen’s cab departed, the faint smile vanished from Felicia’s face. The unsettling feeling of being watched intensified. The precision suggested this wasn't Maurice’s men; there were others—far more than the four she’d initially noticed. It was too sharp, too numerous. She couldn't risk leading them to Carmen.

Pausing, Felicia discreetly assessed her surroundings. The feeling persisted, indicating they weren't splitting up to follow Carmen.

Relieved, she breathed deeply and walked toward the clinic, maintaining a leisurely pace.

In the shadows, seventeen assassins tracked her. Every nearby surveillance camera had been disabled. Hidden in plain sight, their ordinary appearance rendered them virtually invisible. They were masters of blending in and striking unseen.

Their leader spoke curtly, “The client wants this done quickly. No delays. The moment we get an opening, we hit hard and get out.”

“Understood,” the team replied in unison.

One sneered, “Seventeen of us for one girl? Overkill. This job’s a joke.”

“Shut it!” the leader snapped. “We get paid to do what we’re told. If the client says jump, we ask how high. And don’t forget—she has four bodyguards. Stay sharp.”

“Got it,” the others muttered, though some remained unimpressed.