"Let him through," Emerald said.
The guards all turned to look at her at the same time, and you could see a moment of doubt on their faces.
"I said let him through," she repeated, firmer this time.
They exchanged quick glances before finally stepping aside, though they still looked reluctant.
Rick brushed past them without a word, adjusting his jacket with a hint of irritation, as if trying to shake off the moment. His usual swagger was toned down, but when his eyes found Emerald's, he held her gaze firmly.
There was no smug grin on his face, no cocky glint in his eyes; he just looked… uneasy.
Emerald opened her mouth to speak, but a familiar voice beat her to it. "Em?"
She turned sharply, heart giving a brief jolt at the sound. Nessa was weaving her way through the crowd from the back of the gathering, her long braids pulled into a neat bun.
Her normally calm expression showed worry. When she got to Emerald, she gently placed her hand on her arm, anchoring her.
