The entire mall seemed to hold its breath as Daniel Foster stepped into the fray, his attire as an inconspicuous mall security guard doing little to conceal the aura of power that clung to him like a second skin. Michael Harris froze, his hand still in mid-air, as he turned to face the unexpected interruption. His eyes widened with a mix of shock and fear as they met the piercing gaze of his father-in-law.
“Daniel?” Michael stammered, the bravado draining from his voice. The color drained from his face, leaving him pale and visibly shaken. The transformation from a domineering CEO to a man caught in an act of disgrace was swift and complete.
“Yes, Michael, it’s me,” Daniel replied, his voice cold and steady. His gaze flickered to Anna, who looked back at him with a mixture of relief and disbelief. Her father’s presence was the anchor she hadn’t realized she needed.