Page 24 of The Sniper

His words shouldn’t have soothed her, but they did. She hated how easily he could calm her with just a few sentences, how his presence was both infuriating and reassuring. She wanted to push him away and lean into him at the same time.

They reached the edge of the grand hall, where a smaller, more intimate lounge area was cordoned off with velvet ropes. Several groups of guests mingled here, their conversations low but animated. It was clear this was where the real players gathered, the ones with power, secrets, dangerous intentions, and lots of money. Daniels tightened his hand on her back, nudging her forward just slightly.

“Remember the role,” he murmured. “You’re mine tonight.”

Reyna shot him a sideways glance, but her lips curled into a subtle, teasing smile. “Don’t let it go to your head.”

Daniels didn’t respond, though the slight quirk of his eyebrow spoke volumes. They approached a cluster of three men standing near the bar, their postures radiating authority. One of them turned as they drew near—a tall man in his fifties with silver-streaked hair and a perfectly tailored suit. His gaze swept over Reyna briefly before settling on Daniels.

“New faces,” the man said smoothly, his voice as polished as his appearance. “You don’t see that often here.”

Daniels extended his hand, his grip firm as he shook the man’s. “Thomas Black,” he said, using the alias they’d agreed on. “And this is my submissive, Elle.”

The man’s eyes flicked to Reyna again, lingering just long enough to make her skin prickle. “Elle,” he repeated, his tone dripping with false warmth. “A pleasure.”

Reyna dipped her head in what she hoped was the perfect blend of deference and aloofness. “The pleasure is mine,” she said softly, keeping her voice steady.

The man’s lips curved into a smile that didn’t reach his eyes. “I’m Conrad Hale. Welcome to the auction. I hope you find it... illuminating.”

Daniels nodded, his expression unreadable. “We’re looking forward to it. Though I admit, I’m surprised by how... exclusive the guest list is.”

Hale chuckled, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. “Exclusivity is what keeps this event secure. Only those with the right connections are allowed through those doors. Connections—and discretion.”

“Of course,” Daniels said smoothly. “Discretion is paramount in matters like these.”

Hale’s gaze lingered on them both for a moment longer before he inclined his head. “Enjoy the evening. If you need assistance with anything special, don’t hesitate to ask.”

As Hale turned to rejoin his companions, Reyna murmured softly. “He’s hiding something,” her voice barely audible.

“They’re all hiding something,” Daniels replied, his hand brushing against hers briefly before moving to guide her toward another group. “That’s why we’re here.”

The evening stretched on, each interaction a carefully choreographed dance of veiled questions and cryptic answers. Reyna played her part with practiced ease, offering just enough submissive charm to keep the predators in the room at bay without drawing undue attention. Daniels, for his part, was unflinchingly in character, his commanding presence a shield that kept her safe even as they waded deeper into the murky waters of the auction.

It wasn't until they reached a quiet alcove that Reyna spotted the man who could alter the course of the night. He was tall, with dark, piercing eyes and an air of casual menace that made Reyna’s pulse quicken. He didn’t introduce himself, nor did Daniels offer any pleasantries. Instead, the man simply gestured for them to follow him into the shadows.

“I hear you’re new,” the man said, his voice low and rough, like gravel underfoot. His eyes flicked to Reyna, a faint smirk playing on his lips. “And that you’re very curious.”

Daniels stepped slightly in front of Reyna, his body a subtle but clear barrier. “Curiosity is natural in places like this.”

The man’s gaze didn’t waver. “Curiosity can also be dangerous. People who ask too many questions tend to disappear.”

Reyna stiffened, but Daniels remained calm, his voice even. “We’re not asking questions. We’re observing. There’s a difference.”

The man tilted his head, studying them both. “Careful, Black. Not everyone here is as understanding as I am. You wouldn’t want to end up on the wrong side of the leash.”

With that, he turned and disappeared into the crowd, leaving them alone in the dimly lit alcove. Reyna released a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding, her mind racing.

“That was a warning,” she said quietly.

Daniels nodded, his jaw tight. “And a challenge. Whoever he is, he knows more than he’s letting on.”

Reyna touched the collar around her neck, the leather cool against her fingertips. “What now?”

Daniels’ hand brushed her lower back, his touch firm. “Now we keep going. And we stay sharp. This isn’t over.”

As they stepped back into the main hall, the hum of conversation and the glint of crystal chandeliers seemed sharper, more dangerous. The auction was a web of secrets, and they were walking straight into the center of it.

Reyna glanced at Daniels, her pulse steadying as she drew strength from his presence. Whatever lay ahead, there was comfort in knowing Daniels had her back. For now, that would have to be enough.

---