𝗔𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗼 ♡ＦＲＯＺ＄Ｎ

Ｃｕｒｉｏｕ＄

Malia glanced at the gas pump meter ticking slowly as she stood beside her car, lost in her thoughts. The gas station was dimly lit, casting long shadows in the late evening.

Unbeknownst to Malia, across town in a sleek black sedan, Miguel at in the passenger seat beside Dominic. The air inside the car was thick with tension as they discussed their next move.

"We can't let her dig too deep," Dominic growled, his eyes narrowing with concern. "She's already caused enough trouble for us."

Miguel nodded, his gaze fixed on the glowing embers of his cigarette. "I'll take care of it, boss. She won't even know what hit her."

Back at the gas station, Malia's mind raced with plans and leads, oblivious to the danger closing in. As she replaced the nozzle and closed the gas cap, a movement caught her eye—a figure lurking in the shadows near the convenience store.

Instinct kicked in, and Malia's heart raced as she fumbled for her keys. Before she could react, Miguel emerged from the darkness, his presence imposing and threatening.

"Where do you think you're going, sweetheart?" Miguel sneered, his voice dripping with menace.

Malia's pulse quickened as fear surged through her veins. She knew she was in trouble. Just as Miguel advanced towards her, a sleek motorcycle roared into the gas station, pulling up with precise timing between them.

The rider removed their helmet, revealing a man with dark, intense eyes and an air of controlled danger—Armando Aretas. His gaze locked onto Miguel with a silent challenge.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you," Armando said coolly, his voice carrying a hint of warning.

Miguel hesitated, weighing his options. Armando's reputation preceded him, and crossing paths with him was not part of Dominic's plan. With a frustrated glare at Malia, Miguel stepped back, retreating into the shadows with a promise in his eyes.

Armando turned to Malia, offering a steady hand. "Are you alright?"

Malia's heart pounded, relief flooding through her as she nodded, taking his hand gratefully. "Thank you. "

Armando gave her a brief, reassuring smile. "Just be careful. "

With that, Armando mounted his motorcycle and disappeared into the night, leaving Malia to ponder the near-miss and the enigmatic savior who had come to her rescue.