Damien said nothing. The silence in the hallway was heavier than the humid air outside.
He quietly lowered Diana onto the floor, her head lolling against his arm. Aria stooped beside her, holding her up so she wouldn't topple over, but her eyes were fixed on Damien.
He was reaching into his pocket for his phone. His hand was steady, but his jaw was clenched tight enough to snap steel.
"Who are you calling?" Aria whispered.
"Security," Damien replied, his voice a low, rough grate. "I left my gun in the room. I'm not walking in there unarmed."
He dialed. "Code Black. East Wing. Guest Corridor. Intruder potential. Bring the sweep team."
Three minutes later, the hallway was swarming with men in tactical gear. They moved with silent, terrifying efficiency, clearing Diana's room and then Damien's.
Aria stood against the wall, watching them. She felt strangely calm.
