As the train rumbled onward, laughter and idle chatter filled the passenger cars. But in one section, a heavy tension started to brew.
The same thugs from earlier, emboldened now that Vasco had been left behind at the station, slunk their way back toward the girls' compartment. Their smug grins spread as they exchanged glances.
"Looks like the scary guy missed his train," one whispered.
They slid the door open and strutted in.
The girls were enjoying drinks and snacks. The mood shifted the moment the thugs appeared.
Joy narrowed her eyes. "Didn't Vasco tell you to back off?"
One of them chuckled and stepped closer to her. "Relax, we're just talking." He leaned in and inhaled, audibly smelling her hair. "You use peach shampoo?"
Zack stood from his seat instantly, fists clenched.
He locked eyes with Daniel for a split second a silent understanding.
Daniel gave him a warning look. "You made me a deal, remember? No fighting unless you're ready to shave."
Zack sighed heavily, then turned to the thug… and calmly leaned forward and smelled his hair back.
"What the hell—?!" the thug jumped.
"You use cheap body wash. Smells like regret," Zack said flatly.
Joy covered her mouth to stop from laughing.
Then another thug, trying to get a reaction, flicked his soda can open and splashed it deliberately on Mira's legs. She yelped in surprise as cold droplets trailed down her thighs.
"Oh, sorry," the thug said insincerely, and reached out as if to help.
But before he could touch her Zack moved.
He sat beside Mira, stretched out his leg, and planted his thigh near hers.
"No need," Zack said calmly. "Use mine instead."
The thug blinked, startled.
Zack didn't even look at him. His eyes were on Daniel.
"…Get me a razor," he said. Quiet. Final.
Zack was ready.