Chapter 26: Royal Flush

I stayed at the bar, finding a quiet spot away from the smoky haze and loud laughter. I leaned against the wall, taking a deep breath, trying to collect my thoughts. But before I could fully settle, Constantine appeared out of nowhere, his face stormy and his eyes full of grudges.

He grabbed my arm—not roughly, but firmly enough to make it clear this wasn’t a casual encounter. "Leave," he demanded, his voice low and urgent as he loosened his grip.

I blinked, surprised. "I beg your fucking humblest of pardons?" He fueled the growing resentment I had for him.

He glanced around, making sure no one could hear, then leaned in closer. "This isn't a place for you."

I pulled my arm free, narrowing my eyes. "I’m here as Carlisle's guest, and I’m not leaving. This isn’t your house, and I doubt you own this place either."

His jaw tightened, and for a moment, I thought he might argue. Instead, he just exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair, clearly frustrated. "It’s not safe for you."

I