The night air felt colder the moment the stranger spoke.
Because you're the one variable the Circle never predicted.
The words lingered between them like a quiet challenge.
Vanessa didn't move. Her posture remained calm and controlled, but her mind was already turning through possibilities. People like the one standing outside the gate did not appear unarmed and alone without a reason.
They were confident.
Or dangerous enough that confidence was unnecessary.
Behind her, Marco shifted his weight slightly.
"I'm going to be honest," he said, keeping his voice low but clearly audible, "this entire situation is making me extremely uncomfortable."
The stranger's gaze flickered toward him briefly.
"That is understandable."
Marco raised an eyebrow.
"Well, at least we agree on something."
Vanessa kept her attention on the man in front of her.
"You said the Circle never predicted me."
The stranger nodded once.
"Yes."
Vanessa folded her arms slowly.
"Explain."
