The head of the building management turned pale at the scene.
He strode straight over to Celestine and Gideon, bowing deeply. “Miss Selwyn, Mr. Prescott, we’re terribly sorry. It was our negligence that allowed these three to slip in through the back entrance by following another resident. We’ve already called the police. Please check your apartment for any damage or missing items. We promise to step up security from now on!”
Celestine gave a small nod and set down the fire extinguisher.
She’d pulled the emergency alarm as soon as she’d entered.
Perfect timing.
The manager let out a silent sigh of relief.
Then he turned, face stern, to the three uninvited guests. “Do you want me to escort you out, or will you leave on your own?”
The agent panicked. “There’s been a misunderstanding! I can vouch for them—really, I’m not a criminal!”
Paula’s wailing came to an abrupt stop. “My husband’s already been beaten up—what more do you want from us?!”
The manager shot a look at the security guards.
Without hesitation, they dragged the couple out like sacks of potatoes.
The police arrived soon after.
By now, the three intruders looked utterly shell-shocked.
In the police station’s mediation room, Paula was nearly hysterical. “My husband and I work odd jobs on a film crew. We heard this place was for rent and just wanted to take a look. We’re not criminals! That man—he crippled my husband! Can’t you see?!”
Celestine’s brow furrowed. “Which film crew?”
“What’s it to you, you bitch?” Paula snapped.
A sharp rebuke from a police officer cut her off.
She shrank back, muttering, “Luminous Drifters.”
Luminous Drifters.
Joanna’s newest project, just announced not long ago.
Understanding dawned in Celestine’s eyes.
So that was it.
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