Playing the Villain

The force of Desmond's shove knocked Cecelia hard against the wooden booth. She instantly stabilized her footing, holding a mask of placid indifference. Desmond rushed forward, throwing a protective arm around Vivian's trembling shoulders.

Desmond glared at Cecelia with blazing hatred. His chest heaved with ragged breaths as he gently hauled Vivian up from the solid floorboards.

"You are far too