Anna’s eyes flickered with surprise and relief. Her father had always been her pillar, and seeing him here, in her moment of distress, filled her with a surge of strength.

Michael’s bravado crumbled as he glanced around, aware of the eyes on him. “This isn’t what it looks like,” he stammered, attempting to regain his composure.

Daniel’s expression hardened. “Enough with the lies, Michael. I’ve seen and heard more than enough. You’ve shown your true colors.”