“No threats.”
Victor looked at him.
“That wasn't a threat.”
Daniel nodded.
“Good.”
“Then there shouldn't be a problem.”
Maya returned with her bag.
She walked toward the door.
This time, Victor didn't block her.
Not because he suddenly understood.
Because Daniel was standing there.
And for the first time, Victor realized something.
His strength didn't work on everyone.
Outside the apartment, Maya finally took a deep breath.
The hallway felt different.
Open.
Safe.
Daniel stood nearby.
“Are you okay?”
She nodded.
“I think so.”
“You don't have to explain anything.”
She looked at him.
“Thank you.”
Daniel shook his head.
“You did the hardest part.”
“What was that?”
“You decided you deserved better.”
But the story wasn't over.
Because Victor wasn't the kind of person who accepted losing control easily.
The next morning, Daniel received a phone call.
It was from someone he knew.
A former colleague.
“Did you get involved with Victor Hayes last night?”
Daniel was quiet.
“Yes.”
A pause.
Then:
“You need to be careful.”
Daniel frowned.
“Why?”
“Because Victor has a reputation.”
“I know.”
“No, you don't.”
The voice became serious.
“Not just as a fighter.”
Daniel listened.
Over the years, Victor had been involved in several incidents.