Sofia stood up slowly, ignoring Elena's outburst.
"The atmosphere here has become quite… loud," Sofia said, her voice carrying across the silent room. She reached into her purse and pulled out several high-denomination bills, laying them calmly on the table to cover the bill and a very generous tip for the startled waiter.
"Come on, Bella. I think we've had enough 'entertainment' for one night."
Bella stood up, her eyes darting between Sofia and the struggling Elena. As they walked toward the exit, Sofia passed Damien's table, but she didn't throw a glance at him.
"You! Get back here!" Elena shrieked, her hands gripping the edge of the table so hard the wood began to crack. "I'll kill you! Someone stop them!"
The manager and the other guests just watched in shock as the two women walked out of the heavy glass doors and into the cool night air.
