Chapter 8: Unknown Hatred

Hugh's POV

Watching Travis and Shelia's intimacy at the banquet inexplicably irritated me.

David was displeased with my earlier public argument with Shelia, "Mind your image in public. You represent Thornton Aviation!"

He then left early to handle company matters. Esther went to the restroom, and I thought we’d head home together once she returned. But suddenly, there was a loud bang—a gunshot, one I was all too familiar with. The crowd began to panic, and I saw a waiter fleeing.

I was about to give chase when I noticed Tom Henderson, a former peacekeeping comrade, shot and fallen. I rushed to check on him; the bullet through his temple was fatal. He lay there, eyes open, unable to speak.

"Call for help!"

"Get security!"

"Call the police!"

Amidst the chaos, a man's voice came over the microphone,

“Everyone, stay calm and quiet."

I looked towards the stage where Travis was directing the crowd. Before he could continue, another shot rang out, downing another peacekeeper. The shooter, a