The guard hesitated again, his eyes darting between me and the man whose presence seemed to redefine the space around him. I held my breath, the weight of the moment pressing down like a physical force. My father’s calm was infectious, but the guard’s indecision was a reminder of how precarious our situation was.

“Listen,” my father continued, taking a step closer, his tone shifting to something more confidential, almost conspiratorial. “This isn’t a fight you want to pick. My advice? Radio your superior. Confirm the orders. If you’re still inclined to stop us, well… you might find your employer isn’t as solid as you’d like to believe.”