Outside the college..
The sleek black Mercedes purred at the curb, its polished surface reflecting the fractured glow of the streetlights. Two SUVs bracketed it front and back, engines low and steady, forming a convoy that looked more like a political escort than a school pickup.
Celeste stood on the steps, earbuds still in, watching the driver stride forward with his usual practiced grace. He was tall, dark-suited, and always smiling in a way that seemed half-charm, half-profession.
"Good evening, my lady," he said warmly, opening the back door with a theatrical little bow. "How was your day?"
"It was fine," Celeste replied curtly. She stepped toward the car, chestnut hair swinging with the motion. Her eyes flicked toward him, irritation surfacing. "Do you really have to pick me up every day? I'm not a spoiled child."
